Bentley claims to be the world’s largest producer of V12 engines so it seems very likely that the manufacturer will be sticking to a 12 cylinder option for its flagship models for some time yet.
The new Continental GT Speed therefore moves the game on for Bentley and in spite of upgrades to the performance and power of the car there are still improvements (some 12%) that have been made on the economy and emissions front by some smart re-engineering of the eight-speed gearbox.
The GT Speed will sprint to 60 mph in 4.0 seeconds and on to a top speed of 205 mph which is some achievement for a car that is not exactly low-slung. The torque output is enormous too at 800 Nm which means that there are very few road-going cars that could embarass this Bentley.
Uprated steering, suspension, lowered ride height, dark-tinted matrix front grille, lower air intakes, ‘rifled’ exhaust tailpipes and unique 21″ Speed wheels will single out the GT Speed from its other Continental stablemates and deliveries are expected to begin in October this year.
The GT Speed is destined to make its debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed at the end of this month and will be driven by none other than Juha Kankunnen who is likely to give the car a damn good thrashing up Goodwood Hill.
Bentley History Lesson:
Did you know that inspiration for the GT Speed came from the legendary ‘Speed’ models that first appeared in 1923. The standard Bentley 3-litre had already established Bentley’s engineering superiority in terms of roadholding, handling and braking, but W.O. Bentley, the company’s founder, recognised the market potential for a more potent version aimed at the enthusiast driver who demanded superior performance. His response, the 3-litre ‘Speed Model’, complete with twin SU carburettors and a higher compression ratio engine, became one of the most coveted of all Bentleys. The first generation Continental GT Speed was introduced in 2007.
For further information on the GT Speed and other Bentley models give The Car Spy a call on 01732 760699 or email sales@thecarspy.net
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