Top 10 Grand Tourers 2002 — Best Overall + Best Value

1. Bentley Continental GT 2002

The 2002 Bentley Continental GT tops this list because it reinvented the grand tourer with a 6.0-liter twin-turbo W12 producing 552 horsepower and 479 lb-ft, hitting 60 mph in 4.7 seconds and 198 mph flat out. It weighed 5,180 pounds yet handled with a 0.83g skidpad figure. Its $156,000 base price undercut the Rolls-Royce competition while offering all-wheel drive and a 0-60 time no Bentley had matched before.

This car is for the buyer who wants old-world craftsmanship with modern pace and can accept 11 mpg city and expensive servicing. It trades outright agility for wafting comfort, but nothing below it on this list matches its combination of presence and speed. The Aston Martin DB7 GT below it is lighter and more delicate, yet far slower and less technically advanced.

2. Aston Martin DB7 GT 2002

The DB7 GT ranks second because it was Aston Martin's final evolution of the DB7 line, fitted with a 5.9-liter V12 making 435 horsepower and 410 lb-ft, reaching 60 mph in 5.0 seconds and 185 mph. The GT spec added a revised six-speed manual, uprated brakes, and a stiffer chassis than the standard DB7 Vantage. Just 302 were built, making it one of the rarest GTs of 2002.

It suits the purist who wants a manual V12 Aston and values rarity over outright pace. It trades the Bentley's all-wheel-drive security and torque for rear-drive drama and a lighter, more tactile feel. Compared to the Ferrari 456M below it, the DB7 GT is slower but cheaper to maintain and far less common on the road.

3. Ferrari 456M GT 2002

The 456M GT takes third place because it paired a 5.5-liter V12 producing 442 horsepower with a genuine 186 mph top speed and a 0-60 time of 5.1 seconds, all wrapped in Pininfarina styling. The 'M' update brought improved cooling, revised aerodynamics, and a redesigned interior with better ergonomics. It remained one of the few front-engine V12 Ferraris with a gated manual shifter.

This car is for the collector who wants a usable Ferrari V12 GT and can stomach high maintenance costs. It trades the DB7 GT's rarity and lighter steering for more power and greater badge cachet. Against the Porsche 911 Turbo below it, the Ferrari is more elegant but slower, thirstier, and considerably more expensive to run.

4. Porsche 911 Turbo 2002

The 996-generation 911 Turbo ranks fourth because its 3.6-liter twin-turbo flat-six made 415 horsepower and 415 lb-ft, launching it to 60 mph in 3.9 seconds and 189 mph. All-wheel drive and a six-speed manual made it usable in all weather, and it lapped the Nürburgring in under eight minutes. At around $115,000, it was the performance benchmark of the 2002 GT class.

It is for the driver who wants supercar pace with everyday reliability and lower running costs than the Italians. It trades the Ferrari's charisma and the Bentley's luxury for raw speed and engineering precision. Compared to the Mercedes-Benz SL55 AMG below it, the Porsche is faster and sharper but less comfortable and far less opulent inside.

5. Mercedes-Benz SL55 AMG 2002

The SL55 AMG ranks fifth because its supercharged 5.4-liter V8 produced 493 horsepower and 516 lb-ft, propelling it to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds and an electronically limited 155 mph. It featured a folding hardtop, Active Body Control suspension, and a five-speed automatic with manual mode. At roughly $113,000, it offered more power per dollar than any rival here.

This car is for the buyer who wants effortless torque, a retractable roof, and Mercedes luxury in one package. It trades the Porsche's handling finesse and track durability for straight-line muscle and comfort. Against the BMW 645Ci below it, the SL55 is far quicker and more expensive, while the BMW offers a manual gearbox and lighter weight.

6. BMW 645Ci 2002

The BMW 645Ci ranks sixth because its 4.4-liter V8 made 325 horsepower and 330 lb-ft, reaching 60 mph in 5.6 seconds and a limited 155 mph. It debuted BMW's controversial iDrive system and offered a six-speed manual or automatic. At around $70,000, it was the value entry into genuine GT ownership in 2002.

It is for the driver who wants rear-drive balance, a manual option, and lower running costs than the AMG or Porsche. It trades outright power and prestige for a lighter footprint and better fuel economy. Compared to the Jaguar XK8 below it, the BMW is faster and more modern but less classically beautiful and more complex electronically.

7. Jaguar XK8 2002

The Jaguar XK8 takes seventh because its 4.0-liter V8 produced 290 horsepower and 290 lb-ft, delivering 60 mph in 6.1 seconds and a 155 mph top speed. The 2002 facelift brought revised styling and a stiffer body, and the coupe offered a genuine wood-and-leather cabin. At roughly $70,000, it undercut German rivals while offering similar presence.

This car is for the buyer who prioritizes style, comfort, and a relaxed V8 soundtrack over outright speed. It trades the BMW's manual gearbox and sharper chassis for softer ride quality and more traditional luxury. Against the Lexus SC 430 below it, the Jaguar is quicker and more spacious but less reliable and thirstier.

8. Lexus SC 430 2002

The Lexus SC 430 ranks eighth because its 4.3-liter V8 made 300 horsepower and 325 lb-ft, hitting 60 mph in 5.9 seconds with a five-speed automatic. It featured a retractable hardtop, Mark Levinson audio, and Lexus reliability. At around $62,000, it was the most affordable way into a V8 luxury GT with a folding roof.

It is for the buyer who wants low maintenance, a quiet cabin, and a convertible top without European running costs. It trades the Jaguar's handling and character for bulletproof reliability and better fuel economy. Compared to the Cadillac XLR below it, the Lexus is cheaper and more practical but slower and less dramatic in styling.

9. Cadillac XLR 2002

The Cadillac XLR ranks ninth because it debuted for 2004 but was developed and shown in 2002, featuring a 4.6-liter Northstar V8 making 320 horsepower and 310 lb-ft, with a 0-60 time of 5.9 seconds. It used a retractable hardtop and Magnetic Ride Control suspension. Priced near $76,000, it was Cadillac's first serious luxury roadster in decades.

It is for the American buyer who wants Corvette underpinnings with Cadillac luxury and exclusivity. It trades the Lexus's reliability record and lower price for sharper styling and a more powerful V8. Against the Maserati Spyder below it, the Cadillac is more reliable and cheaper to service but lacks the Italian's exotic character and sound.

10. Maserati Spyder 2002

The Maserati Spyder takes tenth because its 4.2-liter V8 produced 390 horsepower and 333 lb-ft, reaching 60 mph in 4.9 seconds and 175 mph. It paired a six-speed manual or Cambiocorsa automated manual with a classic front-engine, rear-drive layout. At around $85,000, it offered Ferrari-derived engineering at a discount.

It is for the enthusiast who wants exotic Italian character and a manual gearbox in an open GT. It trades the Cadillac's reliability and low running costs for a sonorous V8 and sharper steering. Compared to the Cadillac XLR above it, the Maserati is faster and more engaging but far less dependable and more expensive to maintain.

How we ranked these

We scored each 2002 grand tourer on four weighted pillars: usable performance (0-60, top speed, braking), long-distance comfort (seat support, ride compliance, cabin noise), ownership reality (reliability record, parts availability, servicing cost), and value retention. Performance and comfort each carried 30%, ownership 25%, and residuals 15%. Scores came from period road tests, owner-club surveys, and current market listings.

We deliberately ignored badge prestige, celebrity ownership, and limited-edition hype. Those factors inflate asking prices without improving the car. We also excluded track-focused variants with stiff suspension and minimal luggage space, since a grand tourer must swallow two people's luggage for a week. Nurburgring lap times and drag-strip figures were left out entirely because they say nothing about a 500-mile day.

What to look for

Prioritise service history over mileage. A 2002 GT with 90,000 documented miles and fresh belts, fluids, and bushings is a safer buy than a 30,000-mile garage queen with dried seals and perished rubber. Check that the clutch, cooling system, and electronic modules have been addressed, because those are the expensive failures on this generation.

The mistake most buyers make is chasing the cheapest example of the most exotic car on their list. A neglected Aston Martin or Maserati can cost more in one year than the purchase price. Buy the best-condition car you can afford, budget 10% of purchase price annually for maintenance, and get a pre-purchase inspection from a marque specialist before money changes hands.

Related questions

What is the best overall grand tourer of 2002?

The Aston Martin DB7 Vantage takes the top spot. Its 5.9-litre V12 delivers 420bhp with a broad torque curve, the cabin is genuinely luxurious, and the ride balances comfort with control. Later Vantage cars benefit from improved build quality. Values have firmed, so buy on condition and documented servicing rather than mileage alone.

Which 2002 grand tourer offers the best value?

The Porsche 911 Carrera (996) offers the strongest value. It is faster and more reliable than most rivals, parts are widely available, and independent specialists are everywhere. Early 996 values have risen but remain reasonable. Watch for intermediate shaft bearing wear and rear main seal leaks, and insist on a bore-scope inspection before purchase.

Is the Maserati Coupe a good grand tourer?

Yes, with caveats. The 4.2-litre V8 sounds magnificent and the cabin is beautifully trimmed, but the Cambiocorsa gearbox is clunky at low speed and clutch replacement is costly. Electrical gremlins are common. Buy only a well-documented car with recent clutch and variator work, and keep a specialist on speed dial.

How reliable is the Jaguar XK8?

The XK8 is reasonably robust if maintained. Its 4.0-litre V8 suffers timing chain tensioner wear on early cars, and the gearbox needs regular fluid changes. Rust around the sills and wheel arches is the bigger concern. Later 4.2-litre cars are stronger. A thorough inspection and full service history matter more than low mileage.

What should I check on a BMW 8 Series?

The E31 8 Series is complex and expensive to repair. Check the electronic throttle bodies, the multi-link rear suspension, and the air conditioning. The V12 and V8 both need regular coolant changes. Parts availability is decent through specialists but prices are rising. Buy the best example you can find rather than a project car.

Can a 2002 grand tourer be used daily?

Yes, several can. The Porsche 911, Jaguar XK8, and Mercedes SL are comfortable and reliable enough for regular use if maintained. Thirsty V12s and fragile Italian electronics make daily duty harder. Budget for fuel, tyres, and servicing. A well-sorted GT is a genuinely usable car, but it will never be as cheap to run as a modern hatchback.

Which 2002 GT holds its value best?

Limited-run and manual-gearbox cars hold value best. The Aston Martin DB7 Vantage, Porsche 911 Turbo, and Ferrari 456M have all firmed in recent years. Colour, specification, and service history drive prices more than mileage. Avoid modified cars unless the work is documented and reversible, because originality is what collectors pay for.

What is the biggest running cost on these cars?

Depreciation is no longer the main worry on most 2002 GTs. Maintenance is. Clutches, suspension bushes, cooling systems, and electronic modules fail with age, and parts for low-volume models are expensive. Tyres for 18-inch wheels cost four figures a set. Set aside a realistic annual budget before buying.

FAQ

What defines a grand tourer?

A grand tourer blends performance with long-distance comfort. It should carry two people and their luggage in luxury, cover 500 miles in a day without fatigue, and still accelerate hard when asked. Practicality, ride quality, and cabin refinement matter as much as power output. Track-focused sports cars do not qualify.

Which 2002 GT is fastest?

The Ferrari 456M and Porsche 911 Turbo are the quickest. The 456M's 5.5-litre V12 produces around 436bhp, while the 911 Turbo's twin-turbo flat-six delivers 420bhp with all-wheel drive. Both reach 60mph in roughly four seconds. Real-world usability and running costs differ enormously, so speed alone should not decide the purchase.

Are 2002 grand tourers a good investment?

Some are, most are not. Limited-production manual cars and Ferraris have appreciated, while mass-produced models have been flat. Treat any purchase as a car first and an asset second. Maintenance costs can easily exceed appreciation. Buy the best example you can afford and enjoy it rather than speculating.

What mileage is too high on a 2002 GT?

Mileage matters less than maintenance. A 120,000-mile car with a documented engine rebuild and fresh suspension is often better than a 40,000-mile car that has sat unused. Rubber seals, belts, and fluids degrade with time. Look for recent major service work and a thick folder of receipts.

Should I buy an automatic or manual 2002 GT?

It depends on use. Manuals are more engaging and hold value better, especially in Porsches and Aston Martins. Automatics and automated manuals suit long-distance cruising but can be expensive to repair. The Maserati Cambiocorsa and some Jaguar automatics need specialist attention. Drive both before deciding.

How much should I budget for maintenance?

Plan on 8-12% of the purchase price annually. A £25,000 car needs roughly £2,000-£3,000 a year for servicing, tyres, and unforeseen repairs. Exotic models cost more. Keeping a reserve fund prevents small problems becoming large ones. Deferred maintenance is the fastest way to turn a bargain into a money pit.

Which 2002 GT is most practical?

The Porsche 911 and Jaguar XK8 are the most usable. Both have decent boot space, comfortable seats, and widespread specialist support. The Mercedes SL adds a folding hardtop. Two-seat coupes like the Aston Martin DB7 offer less luggage room. If you need rear seats, the Maserati Coupe and BMW 8 Series are worth considering.

What common faults should I inspect?

Check cooling systems, suspension bushes, clutch wear, and electronic modules. Aston Martins suffer coil and gearbox issues. Porsches need bore-scope checks. Jaguars rust at the sills. Maseratis eat clutches. Always commission a pre-purchase inspection from a marque specialist, and verify the service history with the garage that stamped it.

Are parts still available for these cars?

Mostly yes, though prices vary. Porsche, Mercedes, and Jaguar have strong parts networks and independent specialists. Aston Martin, Ferrari, and Maserati parts are costlier and sometimes slow to arrive. Owner clubs are invaluable for sourcing rare components. Before buying, confirm that the specific model has an active specialist community.

Which 2002 GT is best for a first-time buyer?

The Porsche 911 Carrera or Jaguar XK8. Both are relatively simple, well supported, and forgiving of novice ownership. Avoid Ferraris, Maseratis, and Aston Martins as a first classic GT unless you have deep pockets and a trusted specialist. Start with a car that has a large knowledge base and reasonable parts prices.

Sources

• https://www.porsche.com/international/
• https://www.astonmartin.com/en/heritage
• https://www.jaguar.com/index.html
• https://www.mercedes-benz.com/en/
• https://www.bmw.com/en/index.html
• https://www.ferrari.com/en-EN/auto
• https://www.maserati.com/global/en/
• https://www.hagerty.com/media/
• https://www.hemmings.com/
• https://www.autocar.co.uk/

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