The 3rd generation Continental GTC V8 delivers the same breathtaking design and craftsmanship as its W12 sibling, but with a slightly different character. Under the bonnet sits a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 producing 542 bhp, paired to an 8-speed dual-clutch gearbox and all-wheel drive. It’s still seriously quick, effortlessly dispatching 0–62mph in around 4 seconds, yet it feels lighter on its feet and a touch more agile than the W12. For many enthusiasts, that sharper front-end response and more playful balance make the V8 the driver’s choice.

Visually identical in presence, the wide, low stance and muscular rear haunches give the GTC real theatre, especially with the fabric roof lowered. The soundtrack also plays its part here. Where the W12 is turbine-smooth and near-silent in its delivery, the V8 offers a deeper, more characterful rumble, particularly when specified with the sports exhaust. It feels just that bit more extrovert without ever compromising the refinement expected of a Bentley.

Inside, it’s business as usual in the very best sense. with the optional Mulliner Driving Specification giving you beautiful diamond hand-stitched hides and knurled metal detailing creating an interior that still feels among the finest in the segment. The 3-chamber air suspension and Bentley Dynamic Ride system ensure it can waft in supreme comfort or tighten up when the road demands it. Buyers often opt for the V8 not only for its slightly lower weight and more engaging character, but also for its improved efficiency and lower running costs compared to the W12. For those who want the full luxury convertible experience with a subtly sportier edge, the GTC V8 strikes an exceptional balance.