Bentley chose to release its high-performance Continental GTC Speed at the 2009 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The GTC Speed, based on the upgraded 2010 GTC, features unique performance-enhancements inside and out, as well as a significant power bumper under hood. Bentley hopes the GTC Speed will account for more than half of all GTC sales.
The standard Continental GTC – if the word standard truly applies here – gains a revised front fasica with a more upright grille and chrome headlamp bezels.
New low-friction dampers, retuned steering and carbon-ceramic brakes (optional on the GTC, standard on the GTC Speed) should up the performance quota of both models. The GTC features the largest production passenger car brakes in the world.
The GTC Speed upgrades the standard GTC’s 552-horsepower W12 engine to an even 600 ponies that, according to the manufacturer, will deliver “true 200 mph performance” with the cloth roof up. With the roof down, daring and well-heeled drivers can expect to top out at 195 mph. Thrust is provided by 553 lb-ft. of torque, a 15 percent jump over the standard GTC.
Bentley says the GTC Speed will hit 60 mph in 4.5 seconds.
The GTC Speed gets dark-tinted exterior trim, unique 20 inch alloy wheels, Pirelli PZero tires, a lowered and stiffened suspension, twin exhaust pipes and a rear spoiler.
The automaker hopes that more than half of all GTC sales are GTC Speed models – and it has reason to expect this, given nearly 65 percent of GT sales are the similarly powerful GT Speed models. For about a $30,000 premium, we can understand why well-heeled Bentley buyers are willing to pay for the upgrade.
01/06, 7:53 AM
posted by:
A4
absolutely beautiful, this car in unbelieveable
01/06, 9:32 AM
posted by:
FlyingB
I don’t think this is anything you can’t get from the official press release, but here are some more details.
-Engine has design improvements; and turbo pressure has been increased for Speed.
-As you can see in the pictures, a darker grille can be ordered.
-1100 watt Naim audio system standard in Speed.
-New advanced adaptive cruise control, managing throttle and brakes with help of long-range radar.
-New low friction dampers to improve ride comfort.
01/06, 9:57 AM
posted by:
jonmiles
This has to be the best looking luxury car on the planet.
01/06, 10:43 AM
posted by:
yarddog82abn
I need a Bentley, don’t ask me why, I just need one, and I think this will do…
01/06, 10:58 AM
posted by:
cdsmith
beautiful car. the interior reminds me of a speed boat.
01/06, 2:05 PM
posted by:
Lariat Luxury Locomotive Liner No.3
@FlyingB, thank you for the further details. Such a splendid piece of coach work is the Bentley; commensurate attention to detail for its leagues.
01/06, 5:11 PM
posted by:
Das Stig
Simply stunning. The focus on detail, styling and craftsmanship is world-class. Well done Bentley. I’d certainly go with the red interior but that is just my personal opinion. Beige would also look quite beautiful.
01/06, 10:21 PM
posted by:
FlyingB
@LLLLNo.3, you’re quite welcome.
I can tell you all that your kind comments are appreciated. I too raise my glass to all those who actually do the work producing these rolling masterpieces.
01/07, 3:01 PM
posted by:
Dangerous1
Absolutely stunning! The Continental GT, GTC and Flying Spur vehicles are rolling works of art. I only wish I could afford one!
01/12, 4:11 PM
posted by:
darx_ider
Wow, it left me stunned !!
01/12, 4:31 PM
posted by:
Mutant@DCX
It’s a slap in the face to the eco friendly, greenies, tree huggers, carbon footprint protectors of mother earth.
01/12, 4:31 PM
posted by:
Mutant@DCX
…. and I love it!
01/12, 5:50 PM
posted by:
planet_drive
What is this beautiful car doing in a miserable city like Detroit??
01/13, 7:28 AM
posted by:
JohnnyBlazE
Universally positive comments… What can you say about this car??
01/13, 7:55 AM
posted by:
scratchy
@ JohnnyBlazE
wait until Need More Oil for GM posts
01/14, 5:29 AM
posted by:
nkay
I see the big B isnt going to take s**t laying down from the likes of Jaguar or Maserati. Its an unmistakably attractive and refined vehicle, however, a Rolls Royce coupe it is not!