May 2014

Bentley Motors Continental GT Speed And V8 Flying Spur
Bentley's extends their powerful W12 and V8 luxury automobiles.
Article By Steven R. Rochlin

  Bentley Motors has just shown their new Continental GT Speed, the fastest production Bentley ever produced, and Flying Spur with new V8 engine. The upgraded performance of the Continental GT Speed extends the capabilities of Bentley's flagship grand tourer with specially-designed W12 engine. Bentley's iconic 6.0-litre twin-turbo W12 engine is engineered even further, now with 626 bhp and a record 607 lb-ft torque. The GT Speed coupe can achieve a top speed of 206 mph and in drop top (convertible) form is the world's fastest four seater capable of 203 mph.

The dynamic performance of the Continental flagship model is complemented by a signature visual appearance. The sharp front splitter, discrete side skirts and elegant rear diffuser of the Mulliner Styling Specification are finished to match the exterior paint color. The 21" Speed wheel design, headlamps and tail lamps are given a dark tint finish. The exterior modifications are completed with red-painted brake calipers and chrome 'Speed' badge.

The visual changes continue inside the cabin of the GT Speed. Bentley's top luxury craftsmanship is now displayed in a more contemporary and sporting manor starting with a new color split reserved for the Speed models. Starting with a dark mono-tone interior, accent stripes in a contrasting color are applied across the doors, rear panels, fascia wings, inner console and gear lever. 'Speed' branding is sewn to the headrests, while a chrome 'Speed' badge enhances the passenger side fascia panel. Since the Bentley GT Speed is AWD, it is not just excellent in the sun and rain; the performance is very usable and appreciated in snow conditions too!

Bentley Motors' new V8-powered Flying Spur complements the flagship W12 engine version. The V8 model provides the opportunity for drivers to experience the Flying Spur's blend of performance, craftsmanship and technology with an enhanced touring range. Bentley's 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine develops 500 bhp and 488 lb-ft of torque, powering the Flying Spur V8 to 60 mph in 4.9 seconds and on to a top speed of 183 mph. This performance comes with an extended fuel range of more than 500 miles. Subtle styling differentiates the Flying Spur V8 from its W12 sibling, including figure of eight chromed exhaust finishers and a red center to the Bentley Wings badges to denote the V8 engine. The front bumper grills are finished in black, with a black 'wing' insert. Just as with the Continental GT and GT Speed, the Flying Spur features AWD and will take you across the country in sun, rain, and snow too!

Addendum (Added October 2018)
Quite a few years ago having received, and a few years later trading a 2007 GTC, i would NEVER own any Bentley car. The expensive and widely known defects such as false air line ($4000 fix for a $100 hose atop the tranny), the rear windows simply falling out(!) of the convertible top ($17,000 for new top, and yes another widely known defect in manufacturing they refuse to pay for), etc. Spoke with the factory USA rep and seems they just do not care. That was my impression. Your mileage may vary as the opinions expressed are my own. Do not buy a Bentley. If you want to see horror stories with Bentley cars, see this link and also use search engine for Bentley False Air, Bentley air shock problems, Bentley false air hose, etc. Again, the opinions expressed here are my own yet check online discussion board/sites as they seems to agree with these known defects the factory did not recall. Thus buyer beware with the VW Group's Bentley branded products.