by Luxury 1996 Bentley Azure: Beauty at a High Cost
Luxury cars have always been a status symbol, but over time, their value declines, making them more affordable. However, as the example of the Bentley Azure shows, even buying such a car for a relatively small amount of money can lead to the trap of enormous maintenance costs.
This convertible, with 43,600 miles on it, did not meet the reserve price at auction, stopping at $25,550. However, the cost of maintaining the car is staggering: over the past decade, more than $50,000 has been spent on repairs and servicing. The largest amount—$12,097 in 2019—went toward repairing the brakes, turbocharger, radiator, and air conditioning.
Exterior and Interior: Style with a Hint of Nostalgia
Externally, the Bentley Azure still looks presentable: a green body, beige interior, and a folding roof. However, the 17-inch chrome wheels now look slightly outdated. The interior is adorned with real wood trim, but the multimedia system is in need of an upgrade.
Under the hood lies a 6.75-liter turbocharged V8 engine producing 385 horsepower, accelerating the car to 100 km/h in 6.5 seconds. However, the list of drawbacks includes minor body damage, corrosion, and issues with the engine and electronics. As noted, this is normal for a nearly 30-year-old hand-built car.
This example clearly demonstrates that even at an affordable price, classic luxury cars can become a real test for one’s wallet. What is particularly striking is that the maintenance costs over 10 years have exceeded the initial purchase price by twice as much. For those dreaming of such a car, it is important to remember: the true cost of ownership is often significantly higher than the initial investment.
