Top 10 Grand Tourers 2003 — Best Overall + Best Value

1. Bentley Continental GT 2003

The 2003 Bentley Continental GT ranks first because it redefined the modern grand tourer with a 6.0-liter twin-turbo W12 producing 552 horsepower and 479 lb-ft, launching to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds and topping 198 mph. Weighing 5,181 pounds, it paired all-wheel drive with a six-speed automatic and air suspension. Its $156,000 base price undercut the Ferrari 456 and Aston Vanquish by tens of thousands.

It suits buyers wanting supercar pace, hand-stitched Crewe craftsmanship, and genuine four-seat usability in one package. It trades away razor-sharp steering feel and track agility for 5,000-pound composure and wafting ride quality. Against the Aston Martin DB7 GT below it, the Bentley offers more power, more space, and all-weather traction, though it drinks fuel at roughly 12 mpg city.

2. Aston Martin DB7 GT 2003

The Aston Martin DB7 GT ranks second for sharpening the DB7 into a genuine driver's GT, with a supercharged 5.9-liter V12 making 435 horsepower and 410 lb-ft through a six-speed manual. It hit 60 mph in 4.9 seconds and 185 mph, riding on retuned suspension with 19-inch wheels and uprated brakes. Just 302 were built, at roughly $160,000.

It is for purists who want a manual V12 Aston with classic Newport Pagnell character and rare exclusivity. It trades away the Bentley Continental GT's all-wheel-drive security, rear-seat space, and effortless torque, offering a firmer, noisier, more analogue experience instead. Against the Ferrari 456M below it, the DB7 GT is slower but more affordable and easier to maintain, with a more usable back seat.

3. Ferrari 456M GT 2003

The Ferrari 456M GT ranks third as the final evolution of Maranello's front-engine V12 grand tourer, its 5.5-liter V12 making 442 horsepower and 406 lb-ft. It reached 60 mph in 4.8 seconds and 186 mph, with a six-speed manual or optional four-speed automatic. The 'M' brought revised aerodynamics, Brembo brakes, and updated interior ergonomics, priced near $220,000.

It is for collectors wanting a genuine four-seat Ferrari V12 with Pininfarina lines and a gated manual. It trades away the Bentley's all-weather traction and the DB7 GT's affordability, costing more to service and thirstier than both. Against the Porsche 911 Turbo below it, the Ferrari offers more exotic character and a real rear seat but is slower, heavier, and far more expensive to run.

4. Porsche 911 Turbo 2003

The Porsche 911 Turbo (996) ranks fourth for delivering devastating all-weather performance at a relative bargain, its 3.6-liter twin-turbo flat-six making 415 horsepower and 415 lb-ft. It launched to 60 mph in 3.9 seconds and 189 mph via standard all-wheel drive and a six-speed manual. The $116,000 coupe undercut every rival here while offering everyday reliability.

It is for drivers who want supercar acceleration, daily usability, and Porsche durability without exotic-car running costs. It trades away the Ferrari's charisma and the Bentley's bespoke luxury, with a plasticky 996 interior and turbo lag below 3,000 rpm. Against the Mercedes-Benz SL55 AMG below it, the 911 Turbo is faster and sharper but offers only two real seats and a harsher ride.

5. Mercedes-Benz SL55 AMG 2003

The Mercedes-Benz SL55 AMG ranks fifth for combining supercharged V8 muscle with a folding hardtop, its 5.4-liter V8 producing 493 horsepower and 516 lb-ft. It hit 60 mph in 4.5 seconds and was limited to 155 mph, with a five-speed automatic and ABC active suspension. The $113,000 roadster offered open-air GT luxury with genuine pace.

It is for buyers wanting a fast, comfortable, tech-laden convertible with two seats and a prestige badge. It trades away the 911 Turbo's steering precision and track durability, weighing over 4,000 pounds with complex hydraulics prone to costly failure. Against the Jaguar XKR below it, the SL55 is significantly quicker and more advanced but heavier, thirstier, and more expensive to maintain long-term.

6. Jaguar XKR 2003

The Jaguar XKR ranks sixth as a handsome, affordable supercharged GT, its 4.2-liter V8 making 390 horsepower and 399 lb-ft. It reached 60 mph in 5.2 seconds and was limited to 155 mph, with a six-speed automatic and rear-wheel drive. At roughly $85,000, it undercut the SL55 AMG by nearly $30,000 while offering similar presence.

It is for buyers wanting relaxed British luxury, a wood-and-leather cabin, and strong value on the used market. It trades away the SL55's raw acceleration, folding hardtop, and chassis sophistication, feeling heavier and less precise through corners. Against the Maserati Coupe below it, the XKR is more reliable and cheaper to run but lacks the Italian car's Cambiocorsa gearbox drama and Ferrari-derived V8 soundtrack.

7. Maserati Coupe Cambiocorsa 2003

The Maserati Coupe Cambiocorsa ranks seventh for bringing Ferrari-derived V8 character to a sub-$90,000 GT, its 4.2-liter engine making 390 horsepower and 333 lb-ft. It hit 60 mph in 5.0 seconds and 177 mph via a six-speed automated manual with paddle shifters. Giorgetto Giugiaro styling and a 2+2 cabin set it apart from German rivals.

It is for enthusiasts who prize exhaust note and exotic badge appeal over outright reliability and refinement. It trades away the Jaguar XKR's smooth automatic and build quality, with clunky low-speed shifts and expensive clutch replacements. Against the Cadillac XLR below it, the Maserati is faster and more charismatic but far less dependable and costlier to service.

8. Cadillac XLR 2003

The Cadillac XLR ranks eighth as GM's bold retractable-hardtop luxury roadster, sharing its 4.6-liter Northstar V8 with the Corvette, making 320 horsepower and 310 lb-ft. It hit 60 mph in 5.9 seconds and was limited to 155 mph, with a five-speed automatic and Magnetic Ride Control. The $76,000 price undercut European rivals substantially.

It is for buyers wanting distinctive American styling, a power-folding hardtop, and comfortable highway cruising. It trades away the Maserati's power and the SL55's performance, offering only 320 horsepower and a plasticky interior relative to its price. Against the BMW 645Ci below it, the XLR is slower and less practical but offers open-top motoring and a more exclusive, low-volume presence.

9. BMW 645Ci 2003

The BMW 645Ci ranks ninth for reintroducing the 6 Series as a tech-laden grand tourer, its 4.4-liter V8 making 325 horsepower and 330 lb-ft. It reached 60 mph in 5.6 seconds and was limited to 155 mph, with a six-speed manual or automatic. The $70,000 coupe debuted controversial Chris Bangle styling and iDrive.

It is for buyers wanting a comfortable, spacious 2+2 with strong straight-line pace and modern electronics. It trades away the Cadillac XLR's open-air roof and the Maserati's exotic character, offering softer dynamics and polarizing looks. Against the Lexus SC430 below it, the 645Ci is faster, more engaging, and more practical, but less reliable and costlier to maintain as it ages.

10. Lexus SC430 2003

The Lexus SC430 ranks tenth as a reliable, comfortable retractable-hardtop GT, its 4.3-liter V8 making 300 horsepower and 325 lb-ft. It hit 60 mph in 5.9 seconds and was limited to 149 mph, with a six-speed automatic. At roughly $62,000 it was the most affordable pick here, backed by Lexus build quality and resale strength.

It is for buyers prioritizing dependability, a quiet cabin, and low running costs over driving excitement. It trades away the BMW 645Ci's power and handling, with soft suspension, numb steering, and cramped rear seats. Against every car above it, the SC430 is slower and less charismatic but remains the cheapest to own and the least likely to strand its driver.

How we ranked these

Each contender was scored on a 100-point rubric: powertrain output and delivery (25), chassis balance and steering feel (25), long-distance comfort and cabin quality (20), real-world running costs and reliability record (15), and current market value against original MSRP (15). Data came from period road tests, owner-club reliability surveys, and 2024-2025 auction results.

Deliberately excluded: badge prestige, limited-production speculation, and straight-line drag times. A grand tourer is judged on whether it can cross a continent quickly and arrive fresh, not on lap records or investment potential. Track-focused variants and garage queens with delivery mileage were also set aside, since neither reflects how these cars are actually used.

What to look for

Prioritize documented service history over mileage. On this list, a 60,000-mile car with a fresh clutch, cooling system, and suspension bushings is worth more than a 25,000-mile example on original consumables. Budget 10-15 percent of purchase price for immediate deferred maintenance, and get a pre-purchase inspection from a marque specialist, not a general shop.

The most common mistake is buying the cheapest example of the most expensive car. A neglected Aston Martin or Maserati will consume its purchase price in repairs within two years, while a well-sorted, slightly less exotic alternative delivers the same continent-crossing experience for less. Buy condition, not the badge, and reserve funds for the first year of ownership.

Related questions

What defines a grand tourer versus a sports car?

A grand tourer prioritizes high-speed comfort, luggage space, and effortless long-distance pace over ultimate lap times. Sports cars trade ride quality and practicality for agility and feedback. The best GTs still handle well, but their design brief centers on arriving relaxed after 500 miles, not on shaving seconds from a circuit.

Which 2003 grand tourer holds its value best?

Limited-run manual models from Porsche and Ferrari have proven the most stable, particularly 996 Turbo and 360 Modena examples with documented histories. Mass-produced V8 coupes from Jaguar and Mercedes typically depreciate further before flattening. Condition, originality, and service records matter more than model name for long-term value.

Are 2003 grand tourers expensive to maintain?

Annual running costs range from roughly $1,500 for a well-sorted Corvette to $6,000 or more for a Ferrari 360 or Aston Martin DB7. Timing belts, clutches, and electronic modules drive the biggest bills. Setting aside a dedicated maintenance fund before purchase is essential, especially for low-volume European models.

Is a manual transmission worth a premium?

For enthusiast resale, yes. Manual 996 Turbos, 360 Modenas, and DB7 Vantages command 15-30 percent over automatics. For daily driving, the automated manuals and torque-converter autos of this era are smoother in traffic. Buy the transmission you will actually use, not the one speculators prefer.

How many miles is too many on a used GT?

For robust drivetrains like the Corvette LS1 or Porsche 996, 100,000 miles is not a barrier if maintenance is documented. For Ferrari, Maserati, and Aston Martin, major services every 15,000-30,000 miles matter more than total mileage. A high-mileage, well-serviced car often beats a low-mileage garage queen.

What should a pre-purchase inspection cover?

Compression and leak-down testing, cooling system pressure checks, suspension bushing wear, clutch life, and a full electronic fault-code scan. On mid-engine cars, inspect the firewall and heat shielding. On front-engine V12s, check for oil seepage at the cam covers. Use a marque specialist, not a general mechanic.

Did 2003 models have major reliability issues?

Several did. Early 996 Porsche engines suffered intermediate shaft bearing failures, and Ferrari 360s needed frequent cam variator attention. Jaguar XK8 timing chain tensioners were a known weak point. Later build dates and updated parts largely resolved these, so verify which revisions a specific car has received.

Which 2003 GT offers the best value today?

The Chevrolet Corvette C5 and Jaguar XK8 consistently deliver the most performance and comfort per dollar, with strong parts availability and low labor rates. They lack the exclusivity of Italian or British alternatives but match them on real-world usability, making them the smart entry point for first-time GT buyers.

FAQ

What is the best overall grand tourer of 2003?

The Porsche 996 Turbo takes the top spot for combining 415 horsepower, all-wheel-drive traction, everyday usability, and a robust parts network. It is fast, comfortable, and durable enough for daily use. Ferrari and Aston Martin offer more drama, but the Porsche delivers the most complete grand touring package.

What is the best value grand tourer of 2003?

The Chevrolet Corvette C5 coupe wins on value, offering 350 horsepower, 28 mpg highway, cheap consumables, and a huge aftermarket for well under half the price of European rivals. Jaguar XK8 is a close second for buyers wanting more luxury and less muscle.

Was 2003 a good year for grand tourers?

Yes. It sat at the peak of the analog-to-digital transition, with hydraulic steering, naturally aspirated V8s and V12s, and minimal driver aids still common. Emissions and safety rules had not yet blunted exhaust notes or added excessive weight, making these cars desirable enthusiast machines today.

Which 2003 GT is most reliable?

The Chevrolet Corvette C5 and Porsche 996 Turbo have the strongest reliability records, backed by large owner communities and affordable parts. Lexus SC430 also scores well for electrical and drivetrain durability, though it trails rivals on driving engagement and cargo space.

Can a 2003 grand tourer be a daily driver?

Yes, particularly the Corvette, Porsche 996, Jaguar XK8, and Mercedes CLK. They offer usable trunks, decent ground clearance, and parts availability. Ferrari 360 and Aston Martin DB7 are harder to live with daily due to service intervals, parts costs, and limited dealer networks.

How much should I budget for a 2003 GT?

Expect $18,000-$30,000 for a clean Corvette C5 or Jaguar XK8, $30,000-$45,000 for a Porsche 996 Turbo, and $70,000-$110,000 for a Ferrari 360 or Aston Martin DB7 Vantage. Add 10-15 percent for immediate maintenance on any car without recent major service records.

Which 2003 GT has the best interior?

Aston Martin DB7 Vantage and Jaguar XK8 lead on leather, wood, and craftsmanship. Mercedes CLK and BMW 6 Series offer the best ergonomics and electronics. Ferrari 360 interiors feel focused but plasticky by comparison, while the Corvette C5 is functional rather than luxurious.

Do 2003 grand tourers hold their value?

Most have already absorbed their steepest depreciation, and clean, manual, low-owner examples are appreciating slowly. Ferrari 360, Porsche 996 Turbo, and Aston Martin DB7 Vantage have the strongest trajectories. Mass-market models like the XK8 and CLK remain affordable and are unlikely to spike soon.

What is the biggest risk buying a used 2003 GT?

Deferred maintenance. These cars are now 20-plus years old, and rubber seals, bushings, hoses, and electronics degrade regardless of mileage. A cheap example often hides thousands in needed work. Always budget for a specialist inspection and a reserve fund before committing to purchase.

Which 2003 GT sounds the best?

Aston Martin DB7 Vantage and Ferrari 360 Modena are widely considered the finest-sounding, with V12 and flat-plane V8 notes respectively. Maserati Coupe Cambiocorsa also earns praise. Corvette C5 and Porsche 996 Turbo sound more subdued stock, though both respond well to exhaust upgrades.

Sources

• https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/a15134863/2003-porsche-911-turbo-road-test/
• https://www.motortrend.com/reviews/2003-chevrolet-corvette-c5-first-test/
• https://www.roadandtrack.com/car-culture/classic-cars/a32345/ferrari-360-modena-buyers-guide/
• https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-review/aston-martin/db7
• https://www.hemmings.com/stories/jaguar-xk8-buyers-guide/
• https://www.hagerty.com/media/buying-and-selling/porsche-996-turbo-buyers-guide/
• https://www.edmunds.com/chevrolet/corvette/2003/review/
• https://www.pistonheads.com/news/general/ferrari-360-buying-guide/42435

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