Best Car Reviews - 2001 Bentley Continental R

Introduction

The 2001 Bentley Continental R is a blend of luxury and performance, appealing to a niche audience who appreciate both opulence and driving excellence. Released in an era where luxury cars were evolving to integrate more technology, the Continental R stood out with its elegant design and bespoke craftsmanship. Targeted at enthusiasts of grand touring automobiles, the 2001 model maintains Bentley's tradition of delivering a lavish experience while providing a spirited drive.

Design and Exterior Features

The Continental R commands attention with its timeless, classic design. The vehicle’s shape is a testament to Bentley's traditional styling, exuding both class and sportiness. It reflects its aristocratic roots with a streamlined, yet muscular exterior.

Classic Bentley grille with bold lines
Majestic coupe shape with flowing lines
Iconic dual circular headlights - a hallmark of Bentley design
20-inch alloy wheels adding to its robust stance
Wide rear fender offers a more dominant street presence

Interior and Comfort

Inside, the 2001 Bentley Continental R presents a sanctuary of premium luxury. The cabin layout is driver-focused yet indulgent for passengers.

High-quality, handcrafted leather upholstery
Real wood veneers painstakingly applied to the dashboard and panels
State-of-the-art sound isolation for an exceptionally quiet ride
Heated seats with lumbar support ensuring comfort on long drives
Ample legroom and headroom in both the front and rear

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the Continental R packs a powerful punch with its 8-cylinder GUZZLER engine, paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Each rev brings with it a refined growl, embodying power and sophistication.

0 to 100 km/h in just under 6.5 seconds
Refined Rear-Wheel Drive offering superior control and agility
Fuel Consumption: Approximately 24.7925 l/100 km
Provides a smooth and composed ride on the highway
Responsiveness in city driving, capable of navigating tight turns with ease

Technology and Connectivity

Bentley has equipped the Continental R with several tech advancements despite its classic appeal.

Advanced infotainment system with intuitive controls
Connectivity options such as Bluetooth
8-inch display providing navigation and media control
Premium sound system ensuring crystal clear acoustics
Automatic climate control with rear seat air conditioning vents

Safety Features

Maintaining safety and security, the Continental R is not just about luxury but also about passenger protection.

ABS with Electronic Stability Control for better handling
Driver and passenger front airbags
Traction control to prevent wheel slip
Side impact beams for added structural stability
Crash-Test Certified ensuring basic safety compliance

Pricing and Variants

In terms of cost, the base price for the 2001 Bentley Continental R when new was around $180,000 USD. Compared to its competitors in the luxury coupe segment, it stands at the higher end, catering to an exclusive market.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Unmatched luxury and craftsmanship
Powerful engine performance
Timeless design retaining classic appeal
Spacious cabin crafted for comfort
Prestige of the Bentley brand

Cons

High fuel consumption
Maintenance costs can be steep
Limited technological features compared to newer models
Size may make city driving and parking challenging
Expensive compared to other luxury coupes

Maintenance and Common Issues

Owning a Bentley requires a dedicated maintenance regime. Annually, owners can expect to spend around $5,000 to $7,000 on upkeep.

Common issues include electrical system malfunctions
Air suspension problems
Brake rotor wear
Oil leaks
Challenges with transmission shifting

Rating

Overall, the 2001 Bentley Continental R scores a solid 8.5/10.

Design: 9/10
Comfort: 9/10
Performance: 8/10
Technology: 7/10
Safety: 8/10

User Reviews and Feedback

"The Continental R offers unparalleled comfort; a true driver’s luxury."
"Fuel efficiency is on the lower side, but the performance makes up for it."
"Owning this model is a statement of prestige."
"Maintenance is expensive, yet the driving experience is worth the expense."
"The classic design never fails to turn heads."

Best Cars in This Category

2001 Rolls-Royce Corniche
2001 Aston Martin DB7
2001 Mercedes-Benz CL500
2001 BMW 8 Series
2001 Jaguar XKR

Summary

The 2001 Bentley Continental R is best suited for individuals who value tradition, craftsmanship, and exclusivity. While it demands higher maintenance costs, the luxurious experience and driving pleasure it offers justify the investment. Despite some drawbacks like fuel efficiency, the Continental R remains a quintessential grand tourer, blending opulence with pure driving enjoyment.