Also worth knowing

Costs can be lowered a tad if you use an independent Bentley specialist, but enthusiasts warn against using specialists in other VW Group brands.

Electrical gremlins can emerge in pre-2006 cars, but keeping the larger battery charged by driving or tricklecharging helps to keep them at bay.

The Arnage can cost anything from £700 to £3000 to service, depending on what’s needed. Sandell has seen bills as high as £9000 for work on the air injection and brakes. It’s vital not to skimp, though, and it’s critical to get a car with a full service history.

MPG figures in the mid-teens can be expected, although Sandell says the BMW engine can get up to 34.

VED for cars registered before 23 March 2006 is capped at £295.