1998 Bentley Arnage 4.4L Petrol · R407 DTU
1998 Bentley Arnage (4.4L, petrol). First registered 01/04/1998. Recorded mileage 91,317 miles. MOT status: Expired.
- Make & Model
- BENTLEY ARNAGE
- Year / Origin
- 1998 · Reading
- MOT Status
- Valid until 23/03/2024
- Road Tax
- Untaxed (17/10/2023)
- Recorded Mileage
- 91,317 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Check Required (Pre-Euro 4 Petrol)
- Fuel & Engine
- PETROL · 4.4L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
- Fuel Type
- PETROL
- Year
- 1998
- Engine
- 4398cc
R407 DTU Key Findings
- 3 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 06/03/2023
- 91,317 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 1 historical MOT failure
- 1 defect noted at the latest MOT
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
MOT Roadworthiness: Below Average
This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.
Verify lender finance agreements, insurance write-offs, police stolen registers, and mileage rollback.
Technical Specifications
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Dimensions & Weights
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R407 DTU Mileage History
- 28/02/202290,780 mi
- 24/03/202290,780 mi
- 06/03/202391,317 mi+537 mi
Average of roughly 529 miles per year across 3 recorded odometer readings.
R407 DTU MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
3 MOT tests are recorded for this 1998 Bentley Arnage (R407 DTU) between February 2022 and March 2023.
The record contains 2 passes and 1 failure.
The most recent test on 06 March 2023 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 1 failure that buyers may want to investigate.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Lighting (1 issue), Brakes (1 issue), Tyres (1 issue), Suspension (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 3 advisory notices are recorded. Advisories flag items that passed but may need attention before the next test; they are not evidence of how well the vehicle has been serviced.
Recorded failure items include: “Nearside Front Upper Anti-roll bar ball joint excessively worn (5.3.4 (a) (i))”; “Offside Front Anti-roll bar ball joint dust cover no longer prevents the ingress of dirt (5.3.4 (b) (ii))”; “Nearside Front Anti-roll bar ball joint dust cover no longer prevents the ingress of dirt (5.3.4 (b) (ii))”.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
Proceed with extreme caution unless you have a comprehensive service record. While the mileage is relatively low for the age, the costs of maintaining a 4.4L V8 Bentley can be astronomical.
The primary focus for this vehicle must be the service history. With a 4398cc engine, any missed oil changes or neglected service intervals can lead to catastrophic expenses. Ask for proof of regular timing belt changes and fluid flushes, as these are critical for the V8 powerplant. Pay close attention to the 2022 MOT failure which noted an SRS (airbag) warning lamp; ensure this has been professionally rectified, as Bentley safety electronics are notoriously difficult to diagnose.
Investigate the interior for signs of leather wear and electronic failure, which are common in Arnages of this era. Given the advisories regarding corroded brake pipes and worn bushes, check if these have been replaced rather than just noted. Negotiate based on the potential for upcoming suspension work, as a full set of shocks and associated components on an Arnage can cost thousands.
Running costs for this vehicle are exceptionally high. The 4.4L petrol engine is thirsty, with buyers likely averaging 12-15 mpg in real-world conditions. Tax for a vehicle of this displacement is substantial, and insurance groups typically fall into a high bracket due to the luxury status and repair costs.
Maintenance is the most significant factor. Even simple tasks like brake pads or a shock absorber will cost significantly more than a standard car. You should budget a significant contingency fund for unexpected repairs, as the MOT history shows recurring issues with corrosion and suspension components that are typical of aging high-end luxury.
Pay close attention to the underside and braking system. The MOT history shows a long-term trend of corroded brake pipes (noted in 2017, 2018, and 2022). Ensure these have been replaced with copper or treated material, as corroded lines are a safety risk and a failure point.
Inspect the suspension geometry thoroughly. The 2022 failure included anti-roll bar ball joints and dust covers, and the 2023 advisory noted a worn shock absorber bush. Test the car for any sagging or unusual noises over bumps, as the complex air suspension system is incredibly expensive to repair when failing. Also, check the engine bay for signs of oil leaks, which are common on these older engines and expensive to seal.
This 1998 Bentley Arnage presents a classic luxury proposition with 91,317 miles, which is below average for its 28-year age. While it has passed its recent MOTs, the history reveals recurring issues with brake pipe corrosion and suspension wear. The green paintwork suggests a more traditional specification, but the mechanical complexity of the engine and air-ride systems requires a buyer prepared for high-end maintenance costs.
The Bentley Arnage is known for its build quality but suffers from complex electronic and suspension-related issues as they age.
Reviewed by the IsItAGoodCar editorial team — Verified automotive analysis synthesized from official vehicle registries.
Data Sources
DVSA
Official MOT test logs & failure reasons
DVLA
Tax, registration & powertrain specs
Experian
Finance, stolen markers & total loss
AI Analysis
Historical fault & advisory patterns
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