As the first of the "new-age" Bentleys released under the VW flag in 2002 as a 2003 model -- and the first Bentley without a nearly identical Rolls-Royce model in over 70 years -- the GT was also the first Bentley with all-wheel drive. The ground-breaking coupe is joined for 2008 by a Speed version, which adds to the model's accolades by becoming the most powerful Bentley ever with 600 horsepower and the first one to reach speeds in excess of 200mph.

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The standard car is powered by VW's 6.0 liter W12 twin-turbo engine, good for 552 horsepower at 6,100 rpm and 479 lb-ft of torque at 1,600 rpm.

The GT Speed has largely the same engine, but power is a more robust 600 hp at 6,000rpm and 553 lb-ft at 1,750 rpm. The 9 percent power hike comes courtesy of more airflow, different ECU programming, lighter connecting rods and decreased friction in the engine, and increases top speed by 4 mph, to 202. Both models transfer power to all four wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission and fuel economy, as estimated by the EPA, is identical as well.

The Speed also differs from the GT by way of lower ride height, uprated spring / damper settings and anti-roll bars and retuned speed-sensitive steering and 20-inch wheels shod in Pirelli P-Zero tires.

Standard equipment on either GT coupe includes twin HID headlights with washer jets, a tire pressure monitoring system, cruise control, keyless entry and ignition, rain-sensing windshield wipers and a choice of 16 colors. The standard GT has 19-inch wheels.

On the inside, one has a choice of 17 colors for the leather-appointed interior and matching carpets and seatbelts, there are steering-column mounted shift paddles, a sunroof with electronic sunshade, a DVD navigation system, Sirius satellite radio, a six-CD changer in the glove compartment and voice dialing through the integrated Bluetooth system. The front seats feature memory and heat settings, as do the two rear seats, which are split with a center console. The trunk is power opening and closing. A ski-pass through in the rear seat is likewise common to both.

The Speed features drilled alloy sport pedals, unique treadplates and embroidered Bentley logo on the seats.

Lumbar massage in the front seats is optional on both models, as is a rearview camera, a space-saver spare tire instead of the tire inflation and repair kit, and carbon ceramic brakes, though these require a 20-inch wheel option first (different 20s on the Speed).

Choices of steering wheels, interior trims and leather coverings round out the options.