Bentley Motors unveils the long-awaited Speed Six model at this year’s prestigious Goodwood Festival of Speed. After a 93-year hiatus, the Speed Six, recognized as one of Bentley’s most significant racing cars, returns with a bang.
Car Zero, the first Speed Six model in nearly a century, serves as a testament to Bentley’s commitment to craftsmanship and heritage. Developed as part of a meticulous continuation series by Mulliner, Bentley’s bespoke division, the old two-seater epitomises the art of automotive revival. Unlike mere replicas, continuation cars are painstakingly built using the same design blueprints and production methods as their iconic predecessors.
The team delved into archives, meticulously examining original drawings, mechanic’s notes, and data from historical Le Mans racers, including the renowned Old Number 3. This deep dive into the past has allowed Bentley to recreate the specifications and setup of the original Speed Six models that triumphed at the 1930 24 Hours of Le Mans.
The new Speed Six is motivated by a race-spec 6½-litre six-cylinder engine. To create this masterpiece, over 600 meticulously crafted components were required. Initial dyno testing has revealed a breathtaking power output of 152 kW, a mere 3 kW shy of the documented figures for the original race-tuned engines from the 1930s.
Related: Bentley’s Speed Edition 12 models honour the brand’s W12 engine
The attention to detail extends beyond the engine bay, with Mulliner sparing no effort in sourcing authentic materials to retain the Speed Six’s period-correct aesthetics. The team embarked on a quest to the National Motor Museum archives, unearthing five genuine Parsons exterior paints. These paints, paired with a Tan leather interior, offer owners an authentic and immersive experience that harks back to the car’s golden era.
Crafted over ten months by a team of highly skilled artisans and specialists at the Mulliner workshop in Bentley’s Dream Factory in Crewe, is more than a car—it’s a work of art.
With Car Zero completed, the focus now shifts to a comprehensive validation program, akin to that of the Blower Continuation Series. Real-world durability tests, including rigorous mileage accumulation and race simulations, will push the Speed Six to its limits. The allure of the Speed Six has already captivated automotive enthusiasts worldwide, with all 12 customer cars already sold even before their production begins. Over the next six months, lucky owners will engage in personal commissioning sessions, tailoring their Speed Six to their exact specifications.
Related: Bentley celebrate Le Mans history with Le Mans collection
With the first customer car set to begin production later this year, Bentley enthusiasts eagerly anticipate experiencing the breathtaking performance and timeless elegance of the Speed Six on the open road.