As a portion of an inheritance I have the option of having a 2011 80-11 GTC with 18k miles or the wholesale value determined by an appraiser (around $43k)

A few issues where identified by the appraiser.
1) convertible top error code, o don’t know the details of what’s necessary to repair. I’ve read that this can very expensive fix. I am not opposed to drive with top up. Or is this a repair that can be attempted on your own
2) rear flaps not operational. I assume this is the rear spoiler. Are there known issues with these?
3) car was involved in an accident but don’t recall it being major. Was told there is a weld in the trunk which indicates the frame body was displaced.

The company that inspected and valued the cars said they could make repairs on car at their cost and keep their costs under $50 k in hope to sell it for profit

I realize these cars require a lot of costly maintenance and have funds to do so. But also realize there are so many other options in my price point.

Advice or suggestions by those who know these cars would be appreciated. Or if the value is high maybe some input on this to see if I can negotiate with the estate.

 

Thank you for the reply. Yes I am capable of turning a wrench so some of the basic repairs I would take on myself. As for rebuilding the top I wouldn’t want to try anything like that without a schematic, video and notes from others that have made similar repairs.

The car itself was taken care with regular maintenance and never driven hard so i am not at all concerned with abuse.

Any advice on top rebuild threads or service manuals please let me know.

 

Take the car if you can flip it quickly for more than the appraisal. Otherwise take the $$$ and buy a known-history hardtop car. IMO.

 

No update. It will be transported within the next 2-3 weeks to me.

 

I wouldn't touch it with the top issue. It's difficult based on what I've looked up previously. Also the frame damage would severely impact the value. I'd rather get the cash and use it towards a 2012+ GT.

 

Isn't the 80-11 car a limited edition? Might have some extra value.....

 

Hello Samhain,
You are correct, 1 of 80 !

 

From what I could find not much of a difference from a normal GT or GT Speed. This isn't a limited production Bentley GT3r

 

That model GTC sells retail for about $80k. There is one listed in the Chicago area for that price, but’s it’s been on the market for awhile. I know that the tops are a problem, but if you catch them early, before the bows rub through the top fabric, they can be repaired for a “reasonable” amount. My 2010 GTC Speed developed the known problem of ripping tensioning straps. I was watching to see how the top was folding and noticed when this developed. My car is at our place in Florida and I took it to the top and upholstery shop in Naples, since they do the work for the Bentley dealer. They have a kit for the repair and charged me about $2,500.00. Very reasonable I thought. Took them 3 days. So far, so good. Regarding the “wing”. convertibles don’t have an operational feature... only the coupes. I know a lot of the members dislike the convertibles, but nothing compares to the feeling of a top down Continental.

 

Quote:

Originally Posted by gregwarner

That model GTC sells retail for about $80k.

Yeah perhaps the appraiser lowballed it because he/she wasn't familiar with the special edition. You may want to have it reappraised by an expert.....

 

Exotics can lose a lot of value from a normal fender bender but frame damage will diminish the value much farther.

 

thanks for the reply. Can you forward the name of the shop in Naples that did the repairs for you. The car is still in Miami and will remain there for at least another month. I may be able to get it to them for repairs.

 

Avi at Naples Upholstery. They do all the tops for the Bentley dealer in Naples. He's an expert on the GTC's top problems.

 

Thanks Greg. I just spoke with Avi and he feels repair will be similar in cost to what you suggested. The car will be going to him in December for repairs.

 

Spoke with my uncles assistant today, she took the car in for service for low battery. Tech raised and lowered top with no issues so perhaps the error code was a fluke?