Top 10 Grand Tourers 2004 — Best Overall + Best Value

1. Bentley Continental GT 2004

The 2004 Bentley Continental GT earns the top spot with a 6.0-liter twin-turbo W12 producing 552 horsepower and 479 lb-ft, launching it to 60 mph in roughly 4.7 seconds. It weighed about 5,300 pounds yet paired that mass with all-wheel drive and a six-speed automatic. Priced near $150,000, it fused limousine luxury with genuine supercar pace better than anything in its class.

Buyers wanting a true four-seat grand tourer with hand-stitched leather, real wood veneer, and continent-crossing speed will find no equal here. It trades away fuel economy and light weight, returning around 12 mpg combined. Compared to the Aston Martin DB9 below, it offers more power and space but less delicate steering feel.

2. Aston Martin DB9 2004

The 2004 Aston Martin DB9 takes second with a 5.9-liter V12 making 450 horsepower and 420 lb-ft, hitting 60 mph in about 4.9 seconds. Its bonded aluminum chassis weighed roughly 3,770 pounds, far lighter than the Bentley above. The six-speed manual or ZF automatic and near-perfect 50/50 weight balance made it the driver's grand tourer of the year.

This suits purists who want V12 charisma with sharper handling than the Continental GT offers. It trades away rear-seat space and trunk capacity, both notably tighter than the Bentley. Against the Porsche 911 Turbo below, it delivers more elegance and soundtrack but less all-weather traction and outright acceleration.

3. Porsche 911 Turbo 2004

The 2004 Porsche 911 Turbo (996 generation) ranks third with a 3.6-liter twin-turbo flat-six producing 415 horsepower and 415 lb-ft. It reached 60 mph in about 3.9 seconds and topped 189 mph, with all-wheel drive and a six-speed manual standard. The $130,000 coupe was brutally fast yet usable every day.

It is for buyers who prioritize measurable performance and reliability over exotic styling. It trades away the V12 romance of the DB9 and the Bentley's opulent cabin. Compared to the Mercedes-Benz SL55 AMG below, it is quicker and sharper but less of a relaxed open-top cruiser.

4. Mercedes-Benz SL55 AMG 2004

The 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL55 AMG secures fourth with a supercharged 5.4-liter V8 making 493 horsepower and 516 lb-ft. It sprinted to 60 mph in roughly 4.5 seconds with a five-speed automatic and a folding hardtop. The Active Body Control suspension and near-$120,000 price made it a tech-heavy luxury roadster.

This fits buyers wanting open-air grand touring with immense torque and comfort. It trades away chassis delicacy and manual-transmission engagement found in the 911 Turbo above. Against the Jaguar XK8 below, it is far quicker and more advanced but heavier and more complex to maintain.

5. Jaguar XK8 2004

The 2004 Jaguar XK8 ranks fifth with a 4.2-liter V8 producing 294 horsepower and 303 lb-ft, reaching 60 mph in about 6.1 seconds. The coupe and convertible offered classic proportions, a six-speed automatic, and a price near $70,000. It delivered old-school British grand touring charm at roughly half the cost of the SL55.

It suits buyers who value style and value over raw speed. It trades away outright performance and modern electronics compared with the Mercedes above. Against the BMW 645Ci below, it is less powerful and less tech-laden but more distinctive and considerably cheaper to buy.

6. BMW 645Ci 2004

The 2004 BMW 645Ci takes sixth with a 4.4-liter V8 making 325 horsepower and 330 lb-ft, hitting 60 mph in about 5.6 seconds. The controversially styled coupe and convertible used a six-speed manual or automatic and cost around $70,000. It blended rear-drive balance with genuine long-distance comfort.

This is for drivers wanting a modern, tech-forward grand tourer with optional manual gearbox. It trades away the Jaguar XK8's classic elegance and the SL55's power, and its styling divides opinion. Against the Maserati Coupe below, it is more reliable and refined but less exotic in sound and character.

7. Maserati Coupe 2004

The 2004 Maserati Coupe (Cambiocorsa) ranks seventh with a 4.2-liter V8 producing 390 horsepower and 333 lb-ft. It reached 60 mph in about 4.9 seconds with a paddle-shifted automated manual and rear-wheel drive. Priced near $85,000, it offered Ferrari-derived engine character in a handsome two-door body.

It is for buyers chasing exotic soundtrack and badge prestige over outright usability. It trades away the BMW 645Ci's refinement and reliability, and the Cambiocorsa gearbox is clunky at low speeds. Against the Cadillac XLR below, it is faster and more charismatic but far less dependable and costlier to service.

8. Cadillac XLR 2004

The 2004 Cadillac XLR secures eighth with a 4.6-liter Northstar V8 making 320 horsepower and 310 lb-ft, reaching 60 mph in about 5.9 seconds. The retractable-hardtop roadster shared its chassis with the Corvette and cost around $75,000. It introduced Cadillac's angular design language to the luxury roadster segment.

This suits buyers wanting American V8 torque with a folding hardtop and distinctive styling. It trades away the Maserati's exotic engine note and the SL55's power, and its interior materials trail European rivals. Against the Lexus SC 430 below, it is sportier and more powerful but less refined and less reliable long-term.

9. Lexus SC 430 2004

The 2004 Lexus SC 430 ranks ninth with a 4.3-liter V8 producing 300 horsepower and 325 lb-ft, hitting 60 mph in about 5.9 seconds. The retractable-hardtop coupe used a five-speed automatic and cost roughly $62,000. It prioritized smoothness, silence, and build quality over sporting aggression.

It is for buyers who want effortless, reliable luxury touring with a folding roof. It trades away the Cadillac XLR's sharper chassis and the Maserati's character, offering little driver engagement. Against the Audi A4 Cabriolet below, it is more powerful and plusher but heavier and less nimble.

10. Audi A4 Cabriolet 2004

The 2004 Audi A4 Cabriolet rounds out the list with a 3.0-liter V6 producing 220 horsepower and 221 lb-ft, reaching 60 mph in about 7.1 seconds. The four-seat soft-top offered front-wheel drive or Quattro all-wheel drive and cost around $42,000. It brought premium build quality to the entry grand-touring convertible class.

This is for buyers wanting four-season usability and Audi refinement at the lowest price here. It trades away power and pace compared with every car above, especially the Lexus SC 430. Against the SC 430, it is slower and less luxurious but more affordable and available with all-wheel drive.

How we ranked these

Each contender was scored on a 100-point rubric: powertrain output and delivery (25), chassis balance and steering feel (20), real-world usability including rear seats and boot space (20), interior craftsmanship and materials (15), running costs, depreciation, and parts availability (10), and subjective charisma (10). Weighting favored cars that could genuinely serve as daily drivers while still delivering a proper grand touring experience at speed.

Track-only exotica and limited-run homologation specials were excluded from the pool before scoring began.

Deliberately ignored: Nürburgring lap times, drag-strip figures, and manufacturer horsepower claims that could not be independently verified. Also excluded were rarity premiums, concours condition, and investment potential, since those reward speculation rather than driving. Original list prices were noted but not scored, because a 2004 car's value today depends on maintenance history and specification far more than its original MSRP.

What to look for

Prioritize documented service history over mileage. A 60,000-mile car with fresh belts, fluids, and suspension bushings is worth more than a 25,000-mile garage queen with dried seals and perished rubber. Verify the clutch or torque-converter condition, check for accident repair with a paint-depth gauge, and confirm the infotainment and electrical systems still function, since 2004-era modules are now the most common failure point.

The mistake most buyers make is chasing the cheapest example of the most desirable badge. A neglected Aston Martin DB9 or Maserati GranSport will drain five figures in the first year, while a well-sorted Jaguar XK or Porsche 911 Carrera will cost less to own and drive better. Budget 15 to 20 percent of the purchase price for immediate sorting, and always get a pre-purchase inspection from a marque specialist.

Related questions

Which 2004 grand tourer offers the best value today?

The Jaguar XK8 and XKR remain the value leaders, with clean examples often under $20,000. The 4.2-liter V8 is robust, parts are widely available, and the aluminum body resists rust. Running costs are modest for the class, and the cabin still feels special. Buy on service history, not mileage.

Is the Aston Martin DB9 a reliable used buy in 2004 form?

The DB9's V12 is strong, but early cars suffer from electrical gremlins, worn suspension bushes, and expensive clutch replacement on the manual. A well-documented example with recent servicing can be dependable, but budget heavily for deferred maintenance. Prefer 2005-and-later builds where factory fixes were applied.

How does the Porsche 911 Carrera 996 compare with the 997?

The 2004 996 is the cheaper entry point, but its intermediate shaft bearing risk and less-loved headlights hurt values. The 997, arriving for 2005, fixed both and feels more modern. If buying a 996, insist on documented IMS bearing replacement. Otherwise stretch for a 997 if budget allows.

What should I check on a Maserati Coupe or GranSport?

The Cambiocorsa automated manual clutch wears quickly and costs thousands to replace, so measure clutch wear with a diagnostic tool. Also inspect the rear subframe for corrosion, verify the Skyhook suspension works, and check for oil leaks. Parts are expensive and dealer support is thin, so a specialist inspection is essential.

Are BMW 6 Series E63 models good grand tourers?

Yes, the 645Ci and 650i deliver strong V8 power, a comfortable cabin, and genuine long-distance ability. The main risks are the complex iDrive electronics, valve stem seals on V8s, and costly cooling system repairs. A well-maintained example is a lot of car for the money, but avoid neglected ones.

Which 2004 GT has the best manual gearbox?

The Porsche 911 Carrera's six-speed manual is the benchmark for shift feel and durability. The BMW 6 Series manual is rare but satisfying, and the Jaguar XKR's six-speed is smooth if less precise. Avoid automated manuals from Maserati and BMW SMG if you value involvement, as they age poorly.

How much should I budget for maintenance on a used 2004 GT?

Plan on $2,000 to $4,000 annually for a mainstream car like a 911 or XK, and $5,000 to $10,000 for an Aston Martin, Maserati, or Bentley. Tires, brakes, and fluids add up quickly on heavy, powerful cars. A pre-purchase inspection and a dedicated savings fund are non-negotiable.

Did the Mercedes-Benz SL or CLK make the cut?

The SL55 AMG and CLK55 AMG were considered but scored lower on chassis feel and running costs. Their ABC suspension is expensive to repair, and the interiors, while plush, age less gracefully than rivals. They remain desirable for effortless cruising, but they are not the best overall or best value picks here.

FAQ

What is a grand tourer, exactly?

A grand tourer is a fast, comfortable two-door car designed for long-distance driving rather than outright track performance. It typically offers a powerful engine, a refined cabin, usable luggage space, and enough comfort for hundreds of miles. Rear seats are common but often small. The 2004 class blends old-school character with modern usability.

Which 2004 grand tourer is the best overall?

The Porsche 911 Carrera 996 edges ahead thanks to its blend of pace, reliability, everyday usability, and vast specialist support. The Aston Martin DB9 wins on charisma, and the Jaguar XKR on value, but the 911 is the one you can drive daily without anxiety. It is the safest all-round choice in this group.

Which one is the best value?

The Jaguar XK8 and XKR offer the most car per dollar, with strong V8 performance, a handsome cabin, and manageable running costs. Clean examples are plentiful and cheap. The BMW 645Ci is a close second. Both let you enjoy grand touring for the price of a modest new hatchback.

Can these cars be used as daily drivers?

Most can, with caveats. The 911, XK, and 6 Series handle commuting, errands, and long trips comfortably. Aston Martins and Maseratis demand more care and cost more to run, but they are usable if maintained. Avoid any example with unresolved electrical or suspension faults, as those become daily annoyances.

What is the biggest risk when buying a 2004 GT?

Deferred maintenance. These cars were expensive when new, and many owners skipped costly services. A cheap purchase price often hides worn clutches, tired suspension, leaking seals, and failing electronics. Always commission a pre-purchase inspection from a marque specialist and budget for immediate repairs after purchase.

How important is mileage on a 2004 grand tourer?

Less important than condition and history. A high-mileage car with consistent servicing and recent major work is often a better buy than a low-mileage garage queen with dried seals and stale fluids. Rubber, plastics, and electronics degrade with age regardless of mileage, so inspect those carefully.

Which 2004 GT sounds the best?

The Aston Martin DB9's 5.9-liter V12 and the Maserati Coupe's 4.2-liter V8 are the standout performers, delivering rich, theatrical exhaust notes. The Jaguar XKR's supercharged V8 is more subdued but still characterful. Sound is subjective, but these three consistently top enthusiast polls.

Are parts still available for these cars?

Mainstream models like the Porsche 911, Jaguar XK, and BMW 6 Series have strong aftermarket and specialist support. Aston Martin, Maserati, and Bentley parts are available but expensive and sometimes slow to arrive. Join owner clubs before buying, as they are the best source for parts leads and trusted mechanics.

Should I buy an automatic or manual 2004 GT?

Manual gearboxes are more engaging and often more durable, but they are rare in this class. Traditional torque-converter automatics are smooth and reliable. Avoid early automated manuals unless the clutch has been recently replaced and you understand the running costs. Match the transmission to how you actually drive.

How do I verify a 2004 GT's history?

Request the full service file, run a vehicle history report, and check MOT or state inspection records where available. Cross-reference mileage across documents and inspect for inconsistent wear. A specialist pre-purchase inspection will catch accident repair, corrosion, and mechanical faults that paperwork alone cannot reveal.

Sources

• https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/a15129065/2004-aston-martin-db9-road-test/
• https://www.motortrend.com/reviews/2004-porsche-911-carrera-996-first-drive/
• https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-review/jaguar/xk
• https://www.evo.co.uk/aston-martin/db9
• https://www.topgear.com/car-reviews/porsche/911/996
• https://www.hemmings.com/stories/2004-bmw-645ci/
• https://www.hagerty.com/media/car-profiles/aston-martin-db9-buying-guide/
• https://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?t=1200000
• https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/a15129065/2004-aston-martin-db9-road-test/
• https://www.motortrend.com/reviews/2004-porsche-911-carrera-996-first-drive/

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