share on BufferThe new 600bhp (610PS) GTC Speed model is Bentley’s most powerful convertible ever and inspired by Bentley’s ‘Speed Models’ from the 1920s.
The GT Speed coupe, which debuted in 2007, was followed in summer 2008 by the 4-door Continental Flying Spur Speed. Now, the Speed family is completed with the introduction of the GTC Speed, which is expected to account for up to two-thirds of GTC sales worldwide in its first year of production.
The 0-100km/h sprint takes 4.8 seconds and the 0-160 km/h is accomplished in 10.5 seconds. The top speed is 200 mph (322km/h) with the roof closed and 195 mph (312 km/h) with the roof down.
Design
The new GTC models share a fresh frontal appearance. The radiator grille is more upright with a more pronounced square edge, accentuating the Bentley profile, and bolder lower air intake.
These latest models are further distinguished by chrome headlamp bezels, the availability of two new exterior paints and a new colour hide.
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The Continental GTC Speed is visually distinguished by subtle design enhancements which emphasise its higher performance credentials.
At the front, the radiator and lower air intake grilles feature a dark tinted matrix as standard.
The sporty character is visually expressed by larger diameter 9.5J x 20-inch, multi-spoke alloy wheels, lowered and uprated suspension, wider twin-rifled exhaust tail pipes and a new boot-mounted lip spoiler that enhances high speed aerodynamics.
To ensure optimum aerodynamic balance at speeds up to 200 mph (322 km/h) the new GTC Speed is fitted with a discreet spoiler on the trailing edge of the bootlid.
This provides additional downforce and increases the top speed.
Features
The GTC Speed’s 600bhp (610PS) W12 engine develops 9 per cent more power and 15% more torque than the standard GTC. In particular the maximum torque of 750 Nm (553lb ft) is delivered from just 1700 to 5600 rev/min.
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New options for both GTC models include lightweight, fade-resistant, carbon-ceramic brakes (the largest on a production passenger car), and a sophisticated follow-to-stop Adaptive Cruise Control system with long-range radar sensor that monitors traffic ahead and manages throttle and brakes to maintain a driver-selected time gap.
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The wider 9.5J x 20-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels, unique to the GTC Speed, are fitted with bespoke 275/35 ZR20 Pirelli PZero ultra-high performance tires.
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The six-speed transmission can be left in two fully automatic modes (Drive and Sport) or used as a clutchless manual where the driver can change gears sequentially, via either the gearlever or paddles mounted behind the steering wheel.
(Source: Bentley)
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