While Bentley recently expanded the range of the Continental downwards with the presentation of the entry-level V8 model, it’s also taking care of those that feel the need for speed with the introduction of a new performance flagship.
The new Continental GT Speed coupe features a host of mechanical and to a much lesser extent, styling upgrades, the most important of which are hidden under the hood.
The key to the existence of the Continental GT Speed is an up-rated version of the 6-litre twin turbocharged W12 engine that gains 49hp and 74 lb-ft over the regular model developing a total of 616hp (625PS) at 6,000 rpm and 590 lb-ft (800Nm) of peak torque.
The 0-60 mph sprint comes after 4.0 seconds (0-100 km/h in 4.2 seconds) and the GT Speed has a maximum velocity of 205 mph (330 km/h), which gives it the title of the fastest series production model in the history of Bentley.
However, Bentley engineers didn’t stop there as the all-wheel-drive GT Speed sports a new 8-speed automatic ZF transmission with close-ratio gears, which not only allows for faster gear changes, but according to Bentley, also helps improve fuel economy and CO2 emissions by as much as 12 percent.
The chassis has been tweaked as well with uprated steering and suspension systems and a lowered ride height, while the car rides on bespoke 21-inch alloy wheels, available in two finishes, and fitted with 275/35 R21 Pirelli PZero ultra-high performance tires.
Other than the new alloys, the GT Speed sports a dark-tinted matrix front grille and lower air intakes and a ‘rifled’ finish to the exhaust tailpipes, while the interior of the coupe gains the Mulliner Driving Specification as standard as well as a number of signature Speed design cues.
Bentley will be taking a pre-production GT Speed to the Goodwill Festival of Speed from June 28 to July 1, while sales will commence in October 2012.
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