Bentley’s Ice Race Continental GT Is A 626 HP Grip Monster

Bentley is headed to the GP Ice Race in Zell am See, Austria with a modded W12-powered Continental GT, featuring a livery inspired by the 2019 Pikes Peak car.

Power comes from the previously-mentioned 6.0-liter twin turbo W12 unit, delivering 626 HP (635 PS) and 664 lb-ft (900 Nm) of torque to the road. In dry conditions, it can accelerate to 60 mph (96 km/h) in 3.6 seconds and max out at 207 mph (333 km/h).

The British carmaker will rely on the Conti GT’s three chamber air springs, 48V active anti-roll control system and iron brakes to handle the purpose-built Austrian ice track.

Related: Bentley Previews A Snow-Prepped Continental GT In Austria

Tasked with driving this car is junior World Rally Championship driver Catie Munnings, said to be the first female driver of the modern era to competitively race for Bentley Motorsport.

“The opportunity to race with Bentley at Zell am See is one that I couldn’t miss. I’m completely blown away by the car, and I actually still can’t believe I’m getting let loose in a Bentley to do an ice race. I spent some time on ice in the car just before Christmas. At first I thought it would feel heavy, but I was amazed by how dynamic, nimble and responsive it is. It can dance like a lightweight rally car, and I can’t wait to race it at such an iconic event,” said the 22-year old British racer.

Meanwhile, Bentley’s own director of motorsport, Paul Williams, had this to say: “I first drove the prototype Continental GTs on snow during winter testing before the launch of the car. The stability and control this car has on these surfaces is unbelievable and I look forward to seeing it race in those conditions.”

The automaker says that the car was kept as close to production standard as possible, with most changes made only to ensure safety compliance (rear roll cage, on-board fire suppression system, racing seats and harnesses).

Still, other mods include an increase in ride height, arch extensions for the 15 mm (0.6 inch) increase in track width, studded Pirelli Scorpion tires, Lazer high performance lights, a custom Akrapovic exhaust system, and a bespoke roof rack fitted with a pair of Bomber for Bentley Centenary Edition skis.

The GP Ice Race in Zell am See will take place this upcoming weekend.