# Bentley Flying Spur — Used Car Buying Guide

AutoScout's analysis of the Bentley Flying Spur on the UK used-car market. Backed by 33 million DVSA MOT tests, current AutoTrader pricing, and depreciation curves derived from CAP/Glass's Guide data.

Live interactive report: https://autoscout.fyi/cars/bentley-flying-spur

## Verdict

- **Best value year**: 2019
- **Ideal trim**: V8
- **Target mileage**: 30,000–50,000 miles
- **Max previous owners**: 2
- **Target price**: £90,000

## Why this model

The Bentley Flying Spur is an incredible choice if you're looking for ultimate luxury, performance, and presence on the road. It offers a truly opulent interior, a surprisingly engaging driving experience for its size, and that unmistakable Bentley prestige. It's a statement car that blends handcrafted quality with modern technology, making every journey feel special.

## What you should pay

Used Flying Spurs, especially the 2019-2020 models, have already taken the steepest hit of their depreciation. While still a significant investment, buying one at this age offers excellent value compared to new. Prices vary widely based on engine (V8 vs. W12), mileage, and specific options, but the market for these cars tends to be quite stable once they hit this price point, albeit with continued gradual depreciation.

## Which trim to buy

The V8 trim is our top pick for value. While the W12 offers even more power, the V8 is still incredibly potent and delivers a fantastic driving experience. It's slightly more fuel-efficient (relatively speaking!) and often has lower maintenance costs than the W12, making it a more 'sensible' choice in the context of a luxury saloon. You still get all the Bentley luxury and comfort, but with a slightly more manageable running cost profile.

## What to check before you buy

- Air suspension failures (can be costly to repair)
- Electrical glitches (infotainment system, sensors)
- Brake wear (heavy car, powerful engine)
- Oil leaks (especially from older W12 engines, though less common on newer V8s)

## Running costs

Running a Flying Spur is not for the faint-hearted! Fuel costs will be high, with the V8 averaging around 20 mpg in real-world driving, meaning about £0.34 per mile at current petrol prices (£1.50/litre). Road tax (VED) for a 2019 model will be £570 per year for years 2-6 due to the luxury car surcharge, then £190 annually thereafter. Insurance will be substantial, easily £2,000-£5,000+ per year depending on your circumstances. Servicing and maintenance at a Bentley specialist will also be very expensive, often £1,000-£2,000+ for routine services, and much more for unexpected repairs.

## Key stats

- **Fuel Type**: Petrol
- **Horsepower**: 542 hp (V8)
- **Mpg**: 19-23 mpg combined
- **Reliability Score**: Good for a luxury car, but complex systems mean high repair costs when issues arise.
- **Safety Rating**: Not officially rated by Euro NCAP, but features robust construction and comprehensive safety systems.

## Trim comparison

| Trim | Price new | Price used | Key features |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| V8 | £170,000 | £90,000 | 4.0L Twin-Turbo V8 Engine; 8-speed Dual-Clutch Transmission; All-Wheel Drive |
| W12 | £190,000 | £105,000 | 6.0L Twin-Turbo W12 Engine; Increased Horsepower and Torque; Bentley Dynamic Ride (active anti-roll system) |
| Mulliner | £220,000 | £125,000 | Exclusive Mulliner Driving Specification (diamond quilting, embroidered emblems); Unique 22-inch Mulliner Wheels; Jewel Fuel Filler Cap |

## Depreciation forecast

| Year | Estimated value | Retention |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 2026 | £90,000 | 47.1% |
| 2027 | £79,000 | 53.5% |
| 2028 | £69,000 | 59.4% |
| 2029 | £60,000 | 64.7% |
| 2030 | £50,000 | 70.6% |

The 2019 model year for the Flying Spur represents a sweet spot because it's past the initial steep depreciation curve that hits new luxury cars hardest. You're getting a relatively modern car with all the latest generation's features, but at a significantly reduced price compared to new. While it will continue to depreciate, the rate should be slower than the first few years, offering better value retention for your ownership period.

Total value lost since new: 47.1%.

## Alternatives to consider

- [Rolls-Royce Ghost](https://autoscout.fyi/cars/rolls-royce-ghost.md)
- Mercedes-Benz S-Class Maybach
- [Porsche Panamera](https://autoscout.fyi/cars/porsche-panamera.md)

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Source: AutoScout (https://autoscout.fyi). Part of a review of the UK used-car market across 500+ models.