Inspired by the legendary 'Speed' models that first appeared in 1923, the new Bentley Continental GT Speed is the most powerful production Bentley ever. And the first to top 200 mph. Its W12 engine develops nine percent more power (600 hp) and 15 percent more torque (553 lb-ft) than the standard Continental GT, while engine efficiency is optimized by the use of lower friction, lighter components and a new management system. The result is a top speed of 202 mph and a zero-to-60 mph time of just 4.3 seconds. Although the regular Continental GT remains pretty quick: top speed is 198 mph, and zero-to-60 mph happens in 4.6 seconds.
This model heralds a subtle new look for the Continental in general, with wider, lower air intakes and a more upright grille. Sporty design touches for the GT Speed include a dark-tinted grille and larger sport tailpipes. Complementing the car's high performance is a chassis tune with a lower ride height, sharper handling and greater agility. Springs and anti-roll bars are uprated, and the rear bushings are stiffer. Fade-resistant carbon ceramic brakes are available as an option. Both cars benefit from internal efficiencies to deliver reduced fuel consumption and emissions, both by around 3.5 percent. The GT Speed is available from December 2007 with an MSRP that's 10 bucks short of $200,000.