Bentley unveils Continental GT Speed Convertible
Bentley has unveiled the fastest four-seater soft-top in the world with its new 202mph Continental GT Speed Convertible.
Featuring a twin-turbo W12 engine tuned to produce an astonishing 616bhp, the convertible version of the GT Speed that was unveiled last year shares most of its technology with its hard-top sibling.
The engine has been improved in every respect, and despite packing 175kg of extra weight over the current hard-top version, the latest Convertible is still 15 per cent more efficient than the first GT Speed.
The new 2.5-tonne flagship records 19.5mpg on the EU standard test cycle, with CO2 readings of 347g/km.
Like its enclosed counterpart, the GT Speed Convertible uses an eight-speed ZF automatic gearbox for incredibly fast, reliable and smooth changes both up and down.
Paddles are present behind the steering wheel for semi-manual shifts if desired. It is also capable of ’block-shifting’, for example from eighth to fourth.
The famed Bentley ’wave of torque’ is maintained, with a monumental peak of 590lb.ft sustained between 2,000rpm and 5,000rpm.
The four-layer acoustic fabric hood is said to keep road noise to a minimum.
During its development, it was tested in temperatures from -30C to 50C, with Bentley claiming it can withstand monsoon rain and maintain ’draft-free warmth’ even on the coldest winter days.
Handling improvements over the standard Continental GT Convertible come from stiffer suspension bushes and stronger anti-roll bars, while the ride is set up 10mm lower.
Prices have yet to be confirmed but are expected to sit around the £160,000 mark.
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