Bentley will provide a first look at the Continental GT Speed at the upcoming Goodwood Festival.
Inspired by the original “Speed” models that helped put the brand on the map in the 1920s, Bentley is launching an all-new version of its Continental GT Speed which the maker claims will be its fastest production model ever.
Set for an officials introduction in October, the modern-day Speed is the latest incarnation off Bentley’s new Continental platform, and features an up-rated version of the maker’s 6.0-liter, 48-valve, twin-turbocharged W-12 engine. Delivering 616 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque, it will readily blow the hefty beast through the 200 mph barrier.
Despite the introduction of an all-new V-8, demand remains strong for Bentley’s distinctive W-12 – so much so it is the world’s largest producer of 12-cylinder engines, notes Chairman ad CEO Wolfgang Durheimer, adding that, “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.”
Bentley's fastest production model ever is powered by an uprated 6.0-liter W-12.
Power is up 49 hp and 74 lb-ft over the old Speed GT, and transmitted through a new close-ratio ZF 8-speed automatic, then delivered to all four wheels through a Torsen differential. The new Bentley Continental GT Speed is shod with specially developed 21-inch Pirelli PZero ultra-high-performance tires.
The maker claims the car will hit 60 in an even 4 seconds – on its way to a top speed of 205 mph.
Inside, the new Speed GT is outfitted with the top-line Bentley materials normally offered as an option called the Mulliner Driving Specification.
There are a number of subtle Speed design cues, inside and out, notes Bentley, including “the dark-tinted matrix front grille and lower air intakes and the ‘rifled’ finish to the exhaust tailpipes.”
The new GT Speed gets Bentley's premium Mulliner Driving Specification interior package.
While the new model won’t reach showrooms until autumn Bentley will provide a close-up look to those attending the annual Goodwood Festival of Speed, starting June 28th.
Harkening back to the days when Bentley’s dominated the Le Mans circuit, the maker notes that, “Modern-day Bentley Boys Juha Kankunnen, Guy Smith and Derek Bell will pilot a pre-production GT Speed up Goodwood Hill twice a day.” Bentley, it turns out, is the lead automotive sponsor for the classic British event.