Bentley Unveils New Continental GT Speed Coupe

John Eagle European is proud to announce that Bentley is introducing a new performance flagship, its fastest production model ever, the Continental GT Speed coupe. The car can dispatch the 0-60 mph sprint in a mere 4.0 seconds and has a top speed of 205 mph.

“The new 205 mph Bentley GT Speed will appeal to those who place a high value on outright performance, agile handling, distinctive design and sporting luxury,” said Sonny Morgan, dealer principal at Bentley of Austin.  “And like all Bentley’s, it also possesses superior luxury credentials. “

The Bentley “Speed” moniker is steeped in history.  The first “Speed” model was born during the “Roaring ‘20s.”

“Inspiration for the new GT Speed came from the legendary ‘Speed’ models that first appeared in 1923,” explained Morgan. “Their standard 3-liter had already established Bentley’s engineering superiority in terms of handling and braking.  However, company founder W.O. Bentley believed there was a desire for a more potent version for enthusiast drivers who demanded superior performance. His response, the 3-liter ‘Speed Model’, which became one of the most coveted of all Bentleys.”

The first generation Continental GT Speed was introduced in 2007 and quickly enjoyed major sales success across the globe. Now, a new generation car is offering a unique combination of speed and style.

At the heart of the new Continental GT Speed is an enhanced version of the unique Bentley 6-liter, 48-valve, four-cam, twin turbocharged W12 engine. For the new model, the legendary Bentley W12 develops 616 bhp to deliver thunderous, supercar performance with effortless overtaking capability.

The new Speed’s immense power is transmitted via a close-ratio, ZF eight-speed automatic transmission. This state-of-the-art transmission delivers quick yet imperceptible gear changes through intelligent adaptive control software to ensure the perfect combination of speed and refinement. The new gearbox also makes a significant contribution to an overall twelve per cent improvement in fuel economy and CO₂ emissions.

Channeling the extreme performance of the GT Speed is a unique chassis tune that includes uprated steering and suspension systems and a lowered ride height. The enhanced chassis is complemented by unique 21-inch Speed wheels, available in two lustrous finishes, and fitted with 275 35 R21 Pirelli PZero ultra-high performance tires. The result is a sportier and more engaging Bentley driving experience with tauter handling and improved agility.

Commenting on the new GT Speed, Wolfgang Dürheimer, Bentley’s Chairman and Chief Executive stated, “For nearly a decade, the Bentley Continental GT has defined high luxury, high performance grand touring and the unique W12 engine has been so successful that Bentley is now the world’s largest producer of 12-cylinder engines. The new GT Speed with its harder-edged, sportier character reaffirms this pinnacle positioning and continues to broaden the worldwide appeal of the Continental coupe.”

The muscular, elegant sculpted coachwork of the Continental coupe is subtly enhanced with design touches which reinforce the sporting character of the new model. Most notable are the dark-tinted matrix front grille and lower air intakes and the ‘rifled’ finish to the exhaust tailpipes.

The new GT Speed delivers supreme levels of performance with no compromise in comfort, refinement, craftsmanship and quality. Using only the finest natural materials, the hand-crafted cabin of the GT Speed features the Mulliner Driving Specification as standard as well as a number of signature Speed design cues that combine contemporary luxury with a distinctly sporting character.

Standard fitment on all Continental models, the permanent all-wheel drive system, employing a central Torsen differential, harnesses the prodigious power and torque of the new GT Speed and ensures huge levels of grip and stability whatever the road or weather conditions.

Prior to deliveries this autumn, the GT Speed will make its international debut at the prestigious Goodwood Festival of Speed (June 28 – July 1). Modern-day “Bentley Boys” Juha Kankunnen, Guy Smith and Derek Bell will pilot a pre-production GT Speed up the Goodwood Hill twice each day.

“Production will be very limited for these very special cars,” noted Morgan.  “We’re now accepting orders for the new GT Speed with deliveries expected to commence later this fall.  Anyone who is contemplating ownership is encouraged to contact us for a personal consultation before the few allocated for North America are spoken for.”

http://www.bentleyofaustin.com/