Bentley has lifted the wraps off its new Continental GT Speed Convertible, which the Crewe, UK-based company claims will be the world’s fastest four-seater drop-top when it is launched at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit later this month.
The new GT Speed Convertible is distinguished from lesser models by a dark-tint, chrome finished grille and bumper intakes, as well as bespoke 21-inch alloys and large oval exhaust tailpipes. The more subtle finishes include a black inlet manifold (Continental Speed-specific) and a winged B badge set on a black background.
Powered by a twin-turbocharged 6,0-litre W12 motor that turns all four wheels through a close-ratio eight-speed automatic transmission, the Continental GT Speed Convertible manages to sprint to 100 km/h from rest in little over four seconds and go on to a top speed of 325 km/h thanks to its 460 kW and 800 N.m of torque available from between 2 000 r/min and 5 000 r/min. Despite the increase in performance, Bentley claims that the new transmission results in a 15 per cent improvement in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.
The driving experience is further enhanced by the Continental GT Speed Convertible’s supercar-rivaling torsional stiffness of 22,500 Nm/degree, aluminium double-wishbone front and multilink rear setup with air suspension springs and dampers and a self-levelling system for improved day-to-day comfort as well as improved handling and agility.
The interior is as sumptuous as you would expect from a Bentley, with Speed treadplates, diamond-quilted upholstery and options like wood veneers and satin-finish carbon-fibre trim for the facia and centre console panels. Bentley’s 15 GB infotainment system boasts optional satellite landscape imagery, live traffic data and iPod/MP3/SD capability as well as a six-disc CD player.
“Following the recent successful introduction of the GT Speed, the new GT Speed Convertible will appeal to drivers who seek the sensory thrills of the world’s fastest four-seater soft-top and the practicality of a year-round grand tourer, together with unrivaled levels of luxury and refinement. It is designed for those who accept no compromise,” says Bentley chairman and chief executive Dr Wolfgang Schreiber.
