Top 10 Grand Tourers 2009 — Best Overall + Best Value

1. Bentley Continental GT Speed 2009

The Continental GT Speed tops this list because its 6.0-liter twin-turbo W12 produces 600 hp and 553 lb-ft, enough for 0-60 mph in roughly 4.3 seconds and a 202 mph top speed. It pairs that thrust with standard all-wheel drive and a ZF six-speed automatic, making it usable in any weather. At around $200,000 new, it undercut most 600-hp rivals while offering genuine four-seat comfort.

Buyers who want maximum continent-crushing pace with hand-stitched leather and real rear seats will find nothing else at this price matches its combination of speed and luxury. It trades away agility and fuel economy, returning roughly 12 mpg combined. Compared to the Aston Martin DB9 directly below, it is faster and more practical but heavier and less delicate to drive.

2. Aston Martin DB9 2009

The DB9 ranks second because its 5.9-liter V12 delivers 470 hp and 443 lb-ft through a rear-mounted six-speed transaxle, giving near-perfect 50/50 weight distribution. It reaches 60 mph in about 4.6 seconds and 186 mph. The bonded-aluminum VH platform and optional Touchtronic automatic make it a genuine long-distance GT with a 2+2 cabin.

This is for drivers who value steering feel and V12 sound over outright pace. It trades away rear-seat space and infotainment modernity, and the automated manual shifts slowly. Against the Bentley Continental GT Speed above, it is lighter and more involving but slower and less usable daily; against the Maserati GranTurismo S below, it is more refined but costlier to maintain.

3. Maserati GranTurismo S 2009

The GranTurismo S earns third with a 4.7-liter Ferrari-built V8 making 440 hp and 361 lb-ft, mated to a six-speed ZF automatic or DuoSelect gearbox. It hits 60 mph in about 4.9 seconds and 177 mph. The long-wheelbase Pininfarina body seats four adults and produces one of the best exhaust notes of any 2009 GT.

It suits buyers who want Italian drama and a usable rear seat at a lower price than the DB9 above. It trades away ride comfort and fuel economy, and the DuoSelect clutch wears quickly. Compared to the BMW M6 below, it is slower and less tech-laden but far more characterful and exclusive.

4. BMW M6 Coupe 2009

The M6 Coupe places fourth because its 5.0-liter S85 V10 revs to 8,250 rpm and produces 500 hp and 383 lb-ft, giving 0-60 mph in about 4.5 seconds and a 155 mph limiter. A seven-speed SMG III gearbox and carbon-fiber roof keep weight near 3,900 pounds. It was one of the fastest GTs of its year.

Enthusiasts who want a high-revving V10 and rear-wheel-drive balance will appreciate it, but the SMG is jerky in traffic and maintenance costs are high. It trades away luxury refinement versus the GranTurismo S above and is less exclusive than the Maserati. Against the Mercedes CL63 AMG below, it is sharper but less comfortable over distance.

5. Mercedes-Benz CL63 AMG 2009

The CL63 AMG ranks fifth on the strength of its 6.2-liter naturally aspirated V8, rated at 518 hp and 465 lb-ft. It sprints to 60 mph in roughly 4.5 seconds and tops out at 155 mph limited. The Active Body Control suspension and big coupe body make it a relaxed, tech-rich cruiser with genuine rear seats.

It is for buyers who want muscle and Mercedes comfort rather than track sharpness. It trades away steering feedback and fuel economy, and ABC suspension repairs are costly. Compared with the BMW M6 above, it is more comfortable but heavier and less engaging; against the Jaguar XKR below, it is faster but thirstier and less nimble.

6. Jaguar XKR 2009

The XKR takes sixth because its supercharged 4.2-liter V8 makes 420 hp and 413 lb-ft, delivering 0-60 mph in about 5.0 seconds and a 155 mph limited top speed. The aluminum monocoque keeps weight down, and the revised 2009 styling and interior improved quality noticeably over earlier cars.

This suits drivers wanting a comfortable, quick British GT at a fraction of DB9 money. It trades away exclusivity and rear-seat space, since the back seats are tight. Against the Mercedes CL63 AMG above, it is lighter and more nimble but down on power; against the Porsche 911 Turbo below, it is more relaxed but slower and less precise.

7. Porsche 911 Turbo 2009

The 911 Turbo sits seventh because its 3.6-liter twin-turbo flat-six produces 480 hp and 460 lb-ft, with 0-60 mph in about 3.7 seconds and a 193 mph top speed. The optional seven-speed PDK arrived for 2009, and variable-geometry turbos minimize lag. All-wheel drive provides all-weather traction.

It is for drivers who want supercar pace with everyday usability and strong resale. It trades away rear-seat comfort and luggage space compared with larger GTs, and options inflate the price quickly. Against the Jaguar XKR above, it is far faster and more precise but less relaxed; against the Audi R8 below, it is quicker but less exotic in appearance and layout.

8. Audi R8 4.2 2009

The R8 4.2 ranks eighth because its mid-mounted 4.2-liter V8 produces 420 hp and 317 lb-ft, reaching 60 mph in about 4.4 seconds and 187 mph. The aluminum space frame and standard all-wheel drive give it surprising everyday civility, and the gated six-speed manual is a standout.

It is for buyers who want exotic mid-engine looks with Audi reliability and a usable cabin. It trades away cargo space and rear seats entirely, limiting long-distance practicality. Compared with the Porsche 911 Turbo above, it is slower and less practical but more dramatic; against the Mercedes SL63 AMG below, it is sharper but less comfortable and lacks a folding hardtop.

9. Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG 2009

The SL63 AMG places ninth because its 6.2-liter V8 makes 518 hp and 465 lb-ft, launching it to 60 mph in about 4.4 seconds. The folding hardtop, Airscarf neck heating, and seven-speed MCT gearbox make it a true all-season grand tourer with open-air capability.

It suits buyers who want convertible versatility and AMG power in one car. It trades away chassis sharpness and rear-seat space, since it is strictly a two-seater. Against the Audi R8 above, it is more comfortable and versatile but less precise; against the Cadillac XLR-V below, it is faster and better built but more expensive to maintain.

10. Cadillac XLR-V 2009

The XLR-V rounds out the list because its supercharged 4.4-liter Northstar V8 produces 443 hp and 414 lb-ft, giving 0-60 mph in about 4.6 seconds. The retractable hardtop and Magnetic Ride Control suspension deliver a blend of open-air cruising and decent body control at a lower price than European rivals.

It is for buyers wanting American V8 power and convertible practicality on a budget. It trades away interior quality and brand prestige, and parts availability is limited. Compared with the Mercedes SL63 AMG above, it is cheaper but less refined and slower-shifting; it remains the value pick of this group.

How we ranked these

We scored 2009 grand tourers on four weighted axes: powertrain output and delivery (30%), chassis balance and steering feel (25%), long-distance comfort and cabin quality (25%), and ownership cost including depreciation, servicing, and real-world economy (20%). Each car was assessed against period road tests, manufacturer figures, and independent reliability data. Scores were normalised so a single weakness could not be masked by one standout strength.

We deliberately ignored badge prestige, limited-edition hype, and future collectibility. Those factors reward speculation, not driving. We also excluded track-only variants, tuned specials, and cars whose 2009 availability was nominal rather than real. The goal was a usable, repeatable ranking for someone actually buying and living with a grand tourer, not an auction forecast.

What to look for

Prioritise how the car behaves at seven-tenths on a real road, not its peak power figure. A grand tourer lives on torque, ride compliance, and seat support over four-hour stints. Check service history for correct fluids, fresh dampers, and documented clutch or gearbox work, since these dominate running costs on used 2009 cars.

The common mistake is buying the fastest variant and then discovering the stiffest suspension, thirstiest engine, and most expensive consumables. Many buyers also overlook tyre age and geometry, which transform steering feel and cost more than expected. Drive at least two examples back to back, on the same route, before committing.

Related questions

What makes a 2009 grand tourer different from a sports car?

A grand tourer prioritises sustained speed, comfort, and luggage space over ultimate lap times. In 2009 that meant compliant suspension, supportive seats, and enough torque to overtake without downshifting. Sports cars trade that usability for sharper responses and stiffer bodies. The best GTs still steer and brake well, but they never punish you on a long journey.

Which 2009 grand tourer offers the best value today?

Depreciation has flattened on several 2009 models, so condition matters more than badge. Cars with naturally aspirated engines, manual or well-serviced automatic gearboxes, and complete history tend to cost less to run. Avoid neglected examples with deferred maintenance, because a single suspension or clutch bill can exceed the purchase premium of a cleaner car.

How important is engine layout in a 2009 GT?

Front-engine, rear-drive remains the classic grand tourer layout, offering predictable balance and generous cabin space. Front-engine all-wheel drive adds wet-weather confidence at the cost of weight and complexity. Mid-engine cars feel sharper but compromise luggage room and rear visibility. For touring, layout matters less than calibration: damping, steering weight, and seat comfort dominate real-world enjoyment.

What should I check on a used 2009 grand tourer?

Inspect service records for correct oil specification, brake fluid changes, and gearbox servicing. Check dampers for leaks, tyres for date codes older than six years, and underbody for corrosion. Verify electronics, including infotainment and seat modules, since replacements can be scarce. A pre-purchase inspection by a marque specialist is essential on any complex 2009 car.

Are 2009 grand tourers expensive to maintain?

Running costs vary enormously by model. Mainstream V8 and V6 cars are reasonable, while exotic V10s and V12s demand premium parts and labour. Budget for consumables such as tyres, brakes, and fluids, plus periodic suspension refresh. Independent specialists usually halve dealer labour rates. Setting aside an annual maintenance fund prevents small issues becoming large ones.

Does a manual gearbox suit a 2009 grand tourer?

A manual adds engagement and often reduces long-term repair risk, but many 2009 GTs were designed around automatics. A good torque-converter automatic suits relaxed touring better, while early dual-clutch units can be jerky and costly to service. Drive both. Choose based on how you use the car, not on resale speculation, because condition and history outweigh transmission type.

How do I judge ride comfort on a test drive?

Drive the same route you would use daily, including broken surfaces and speed bumps. Listen for suspension noise and check that the car settles quickly without float or harshness. Adjust the seats through their full range and confirm support over thirty minutes. Stiff, low-profile tyre setups often ruin comfort more than suspension tuning does.

What role does weight play in a 2009 GT?

Weight affects acceleration, braking, tyre wear, and fuel consumption simultaneously. Lighter grand tourers feel more agile and usually cost less to run, but may lack the isolation and equipment of heavier rivals. Power-to-weight matters more than outright output. Check kerb weight against class rivals and consider whether you value agility or effortless cruising more.

FAQ

What is the best overall 2009 grand tourer?

The best overall choice balances pace, comfort, and running costs rather than excelling in one area. Look for strong mid-range torque, well-calibrated damping, supportive seats, and a robust service network. Cars that scored consistently across all four weighted categories beat those with a single headline figure. Condition and history ultimately decide between close rivals.

Which 2009 GT is the best value?

Best value usually means the car with the shallowest depreciation and cheapest consumables, not the lowest sticker price. Models with widely available parts, simple engine layouts, and active owner communities cost less over five years. A well-maintained higher-mileage example often beats a neglected low-mileage one on total cost of ownership.

How much should I budget for a 2009 grand tourer?

Purchase price is only part of the cost. Allow for immediate servicing, tyres, and any deferred maintenance, which can add ten to twenty percent of the car's value. Annual running costs range widely by model, so research insurance, road tax, and specialist labour before buying. A contingency fund prevents surprises becoming financial strain.

Are 2009 grand tourers reliable enough for daily use?

Many are, provided maintenance is current and the model's known weaknesses have been addressed. Complex electronics and adaptive suspension are the usual trouble spots. Regular use generally suits these cars better than long storage. A specialist inspection and a documented history are more predictive of reliability than mileage alone.

Should I buy a naturally aspirated or turbocharged 2009 GT?

Naturally aspirated engines deliver smoother response and simpler maintenance, which suits touring. Turbocharged units offer stronger mid-range torque and better economy at a cruise, but add heat management and turbo servicing considerations. Drive both. Choose based on the delivery you prefer, then verify the specific engine's known issues.

How do I verify a 2009 grand tourer's history?

Request the full service file, including invoices rather than stamps alone. Check mileage records against MOT or equivalent inspection data. Ask a marque specialist to inspect the car and scan for stored fault codes. Verify accident repair history and confirm the chassis and engine numbers match documentation before negotiating.

What tyres suit a 2009 grand tourer best?

Choose a tyre that balances ride comfort, wet grip, and noise rather than maximum dry performance. Check date codes, since old rubber compromises safety regardless of tread depth. Correct pressures and a proper alignment transform steering feel and tyre life. Matching the original specification is usually the safest starting point.

Is a 2009 grand tourer a good investment?

Most are not investments. Depreciation, maintenance, and insurance usually outweigh appreciation except for rare, low-mileage specials. Buy for enjoyment and usability, not profit. If value retention matters, choose documented, original, well-serviced examples and keep them that way. Treat any appreciation as a bonus rather than a plan.

How many seats do I need in a 2009 GT?

Most grand tourers offer two usable seats plus two occasional rear positions. If you regularly carry adults in the back, prioritise a larger four-seat model. If you mostly tour as a pair, a two-seater gives better packaging and often more luggage space. Sit in every seat before deciding, because rear room varies dramatically.

What is the biggest mistake when buying a 2009 GT?

Buying on emotion without a pre-purchase inspection is the classic error. Enthusiasts overlook warning signs such as poor tyres, tired dampers, or incomplete history. Another mistake is choosing the most powerful variant when a lesser model suits the intended use better and costs far less to run. Drive several examples before committing.

Sources

• https://www.caranddriver.com
• https://www.motortrend.com
• https://www.topgear.com
• https://www.autocar.co.uk
• https://www.evo.co.uk
• https://www.hagerty.com
• https://www.edmunds.com
• https://www.kbb.com

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