Bentley launches it fastest production model ever
(June 26, 2012) CREWE, England — Bentley is introducing a new performance flagship, its fastest production model ever, the Continental GT Speed coupe. The new 205 mph GT Speed will appeal to driving enthusiasts who place a high value on outright performance, agile handling, distinctive design and sporting luxury.
At the heart of the new GT Speed is an up-rated version of the Bentley 6-liter, 48-valve, four-cam, twin turbocharged W12 engine. For the new model, the Bentley W12 develops 616 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 590 pound-feet of torque to deliver thunderous, supercar performance with effortless overtaking capability. The 0-60 mph sprint is dispatched in a mere 4.0 seconds and the GT Speed has a top speed of 205 mph.
The new Speed’s 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.
Channelling 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.
Commenting on the new GT Speed, Wolfgang Dürheimer, Bentley’s Chairman and Chief Executive says: “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.
Orders for the new GT Speed are being taken now, with deliveries to begin in October. Price have not been announced, but figure north of $220,000.
Ahead of deliveries this fall, the GT Speed makes its international debut at the prestigious Goodwood Festival of Speed this week — June 28 through July 1.