Bentley Continental GT V8 S, 2014

 

 

•  Bentley Continental GT V8 S, 2014

The appeal of the world's most stylish, luxury grand tourer is enhanced with the introduction of the new, sporting Bentley Continental GT V8 S. Available as both a coupe and convertible, the new GT V8 S models bring added excitement to the Continental range with lowered and retuned sports suspension, sharper steering, dramatic 'S' signature styling cues and a distinctive soundtrack from the uprated V8 engine.

These two new models expand the Continental family and provide an even more engaging driving experience from Bentley's already renowned 4-litre twin-turbo V8 powertrain. The new Bentley Continental GT V8 S Coupe and Convertible will be unveiled at the 2013 Frankfurt Show.

Commenting on the introduction of the two new S models, Dr Wolfgang Schreiber, Chairman and Chief Executive, Bentley Motors, said: "The Bentley Continental is the definitive grand tourer. Its effortless performance, generous space, handcrafted luxury and all-wheel drive capability take you on a journey in refined style and comfort. Now, for those customers who want even more drama and excitement, the sharper, sporting edge of the new GT V8 S adds a new dimension to the Continental range."

More power, more performance, and a range of 500 miles on a single tank
Building on the success of the acclaimed Continental GT V8, the new GT V8 S models feature a more powerful version of Bentley's high-efficiency 4-litre, twin-turbo V8 engine developing 521 bhp (528 PS / 389 KW) at 6,000 rev/min and an immense peak torque of 680 Nm (502 lb.ft) at a mere 1,700 rev/min.

Delivered via a close-ratio ZF 8-speed automatic transmission, the increased power provides effortless, exhilarating high performance with breath-taking acceleration and imperceptibly smooth power delivery. Switch into S mode via the gear selector and the V8 S rewards the spirited driver with a sharpened throttle response while gears are held for longer with faster shifts.

The GT V8 S coupe dispatches the 0-60 mph sprint in just 4.3 seconds (0-100 km/h in 4.5s) onto a top speed of 192 mph (309 km/h). The performance of the GT V8 S convertible is equally impressive, reaching 60 mph from a standing start in 4.5 seconds (0-100km/h in 4.7s) and a top speed of 191mph (308km/h).

The increased performance is achieved without detriment to the V8 engine's class-leading fuel economy and CO2 emissions, or its ability to cover more than 500 miles (805 km) between fill-ups.

The new GT V8 S coupe returns a combined cycle fuel economy of 26.8 mpg (10.6 l/100km) and CO2 emissions of 246 g/km. The equivalent figures for the convertible are 25.9 mpg (10.9 l/100km) and 254 g/km.

The impressive combination of power, performance and economy is the result of an array of advanced technologies employed in the design of the Bentley V8 engine. Variable displacement, in which four of the eight cylinders shut down when cruising, reduces fuel consumption without any loss of refinement. When more power is required, the engine switches back automatically and seamlessly to the full eight cylinders.

The high-technology V8 engine also features high pressure direct injection, low friction bearings, advanced thermal management, energy recuperation via the electrical charging system and innovative turbocharger packaging for greater efficiency.

The V8 engine's variable displacement system presented a unique challenge for Bentley exhaust engineers. When cruising on a light throttle in 4-cylinder mode, the exhaust system is tuned for refinement while maintaining a distinctive V8 sound. However, under acceleration the character of the system changes dramatically as the twin turbo-charged Bentley V8 transforms into an emotive growl.

A more agile, responsive and involving driving experience
The power and performance of the GT V8 S models are complemented by a range of chassis enhancements which deliver greater agility and a more involving driving experience without compromising the Continental's legendary ride comfort.

The GT V8 S retains the aluminium double-wishbone front and trapezoidal multi-link rear self-levelling air suspension with continuous damping control that is common to all Continental models. For the GT V8 S, there is a more sporting setup with subtly different tunes for Coupe and Convertible. Lowered sports suspension (by 10 mm) is complemented by increased spring rates (45% front, 33% rear) and revised damping for a more engaging and responsive drive. Bush stiffness are increased by up to 70%, while the rear anti-roll bar is stiffened by 54% over the standard GT V8 models for improved body control and turn-in. A recalibrated steering system completes the new chassis system, offering both improved precision and feedback through changes to static toe and camber and new software.

Careful recalibration of the Continuous Damping Control (CDC) system ensures minimal degradation in ride comfort despite the gains in handling performance.

The Electronic Stability Control is also optimised for the GT V8 S. The retuned system allows increased wheel slip at higher speeds with engine torque reinstated more quickly after a system intervention. This provides the spirited driver more opportunity to exploit the full potential of the uprated chassis and increased power.

The Lower Body Styling Specification - front splitter, side sills and rear diffuser - benefit aerodynamics by reducing front-end lift and provide greater stability at higher road speeds.

Distinctive sporting design cues
While the elegant coachwork of the Bentley Continental GT is inspired by iconic Bentleys of the past, its modern, sculpted design, with crisp, highly defined feature lines, is formed using advanced body construction techniques, achieving class-leading standards of quality and body integrity.

For new 'S models, the design of the Continental takes a more dramatic direction and its enhanced road presence is clear before a wheel is turned. The lowered suspension provides a more sleek and purposeful stance, complemented by unique, lower-body styling including a sharp front splitter, discrete side sills and subtle rear diffuser finished in Beluga gloss. The black gloss radiator grille with single chrome divider bar and 'figure of eight' exhaust tail pipes instantly signify the powerful V8 engine.

The signature 20-inch wheels are unique to the 'S' models with an open-spoke design that reveals distinctive, red-painted brake calipers. Subtle 'V8 S' badges are applied to each front fender, and as with the other members of the Continental V8 family, the famous Bentley Wings badges feature a red centre.

In common with the Continental GT W12, the GT V8 S models are available in the full palette of 17 paint colours, of which seven vibrant hues are specifically recommended by Bentley Design to match the sporting character of the new model. Of these, two shades (Kingfisher Blue and the new Monaco Yellow) are signature colours for the GT V8 S.

Hand-crafted contemporary luxury
The cabin of the Continental GT is renowned for its supreme luxury with soft-touch leathers, wood veneers, polished metals and deep-pile carpeting, hand-crafted in Bentley's unrivalled workshops at the factory in Crewe, England.

The cabin of the 'S' models presents a thoroughly modern interpretation of Bentley luxury in which colour and tone offer further appeal to the senses.

Available with a range of striking duo-tone interiors, customers may also select from the full range of seventeen hide colours. The GT V8 S coupe also features a unique contrast centre-stripe for the hide-trimmed roof lining, matched to the colour of the main hide. Contrast stitching throughout, including to the steering wheel, is also available as an option.

Knurled chrome detailing to the gearshift lever and ventilation controls provide a perfect contrast to the Piano Black veneers which are sanded and lacquered up to 18 times to produce a truly flawless finish. Discreet 'V8 S' badges are displayed on each sill tread plate.

As with all Continental models, the 'S' models include advanced infotainment technology as standard, including an 8-inch touchscreen which displays the car's navigation, audio and telephone systems as well as the ride and comfort settings for the air suspension, all complemented by a 30GB on-board hard drive.

Tailoring the specification
Customers may tailor the specification of the GT V8 S by selecting from a range of optional equipment.

The sports exhaust option features redesigned silencers, revised pipe architecture and re-tuned mountings which result in a free-breathing system that delivers a full-blooded V8 sound track.

The optional Mulliner Driving Specification features 21-inch 7-spoke Black Edition wheels, drilled alloy foot pedals, a 'jewel' filler cap and a cabin trimmed in diamond-quilted, perforated leather with indented headlining. Other key options include Mulliner dark - tint front and rear lights and Beluga gloss door mirrors to match the Lower Body Styling Specification.

Bentley Continental Flying Spur Series 51, 2012

 

 

 

• Bentley Continental Flying Spur Series 51, 2012

Series 51 represents Bentley design at its most vibrant. It allows customers of both Continental Flying Spur and Flying Spur Speed to order 'off the peg' from an innovative and exclusive range of recommended combinations created by Bentley's colour and trim designers at the company's headquarters in Crewe, England, as Dirk van Braeckel, Bentley's director of design comments:

First offered on the Continental GT and GTC in 2009, Bentley's colour and trim team has now created no fewer than14 unique Series 51 designs for the Continental Flying Spur and Flying Spur Speed, enabling customers to tailor their cars to their individual tastes as Melinda June-Jenkins, manager of colour and trim, explains:

For Series 51 designs, the Bentley styling team operates on a 'rule of three' principle to create complex but harmonising colour schemes of depth and beauty, inspired by a customer's simple choice of three contrasting colours. With luxurious wood veneers and leather hides as the main canvas, the colour and trim specialists begin with a main interior colour (typically a darker shade) and then select a second insert colour to provide an eye-catching contrast. A critical skill is identifying the third 'accent' colour for the stitching and piping.

The selection of wood veneers or aluminium panels for the dashboard either complements the overall look or provides even greater contrast if the customer so desires.

Bentley has reserved the limited-edition Sapelli Pomelle veneer (which provides a rare, naturally occurring quilted effect in the wood) for the Series 51 Flying Spur and a range of further options, including Bentley's leather trimmed child seat and scatter cushions for the rear seats, may also be specified to further complement the exclusive design.

Whilst the 14 options for the Series 51 Flying Spur provide customers with the opportunity to select some of Bentley's most eye-catching design work, the colour and trim team is also more than happy to create even more bespoke designs, knowing they have only shown a fraction of the possibilities, as Melinda-June Jenkins explains:

Striking range of Series 51 duo-tone paint options
The same imaginative use of colour is extended to the coachwork of all Series 51 Continental Flying Spurs. A range of striking John Blatchley-inspired duo-tone paint options, with one accent colour sweeping from the bonnet, over the roof and onto the bootlid, may be specified.

The paint range encompasses cool and crisp hues through to rich and fiery shades and everything in between with the Bentley colour and trim team recommending one of the three selected interior colours to complement and highlight the relationship between inside and out.

Bentley has also created a unique Series 51 graphite-finished nine-spoke, 19-inch sports alloy wheel, while twin Series 51 wing badges, positioned behind the front wheel arches, complete the bespoke look.

As a further sporting touch, all the latest Continental Flying Spurs, including Series 51 models, may now be specified with distinctive blue brake callipers and front wing vents styled by Bentley's head of exterior design, Raul Pires. These sleek vents, positioned to the rear of the front wheel arches, are set into a uniquely tooled wing panel and feature a black or chrome mesh finish.

Advanced and intuitive touchscreen infotainment technology
All 2012 model year Bentley Continental Flying Spur and Supersports coupe and convertible models are now equipped with a new, highly-advanced touchscreen infotainment system that provides rich map imagery and a 30GB on-board hard drive.

An 8-inch screen displays the car's audio system, telephone, ride and comfort settings as well as the very latest navigation system, which uses both an in-car hard-disc drive and a DVD player to access route data. It also utilises dynamic navigation to avoid heavy traffic spots, locates destinations using geo-tagged photos from an SD memory card and is Google Maps-compatible for most markets.

The infotainment system, with 7-digit postcode entry, combines touchscreen controls and classic Bentley knurled rotary switches to offer instant usability and crystal-clear feedback. The graphic interface of the screen was specified by Bentley's interior design team to ensure its visuals are wholly in keeping with the classic, handcrafted interior. The 'knurled' switches on the screen for example, are 'virtual' echoes of the knurled texture of the jewel-like rotary switches below.

The latest Continental Flying Spur and Supersports models also benefit from telephone and music player connectivity, digital television (where available) and DVD movie playback. Music can be played and controlled directly from an iPod as well as from a six-disc CD changer, SD card reader or directly from the car's hard-disc drive, which can store up to 15GB of music.

The new infotainment system is complemented by a new driver information panel (DIP) located in the main instrument cluster. The new wide-screen DIP employs TFT technology and enhanced graphics provide the driver with clear and easily accessible information about a wide range of car systems. These include the setting of head lamp 'coming home' controls, door locking and mirror functions while providing significantly improved control of such features as phone pairing and bluetooth media connectivity.

The new 2012 model year Continental Flying Spur, Flying Spur Speed and their Series 51 design options, together with the 2012 Supersports coupe and convertible models go on sale from March 2011.

Bentley Mulsanne, 2011

Bentley Mulsanne, 2011

 

  

 

While paying homage to past Bentley greats, the brief for the new Bentley Mulsanne design and engineering teams was to create a Bentley that represents the pinnacle of British luxury motoring.
The new Bentley Mulsanne, designed and engineered at Crewe from the ground-up, reaffirms the marque's intent to create a new flagship Bentley with refined performance, unparalleled levels of interior luxury and coach building skills to the fore.

The return of the Mulsanne name underlines Bentley's sporting heritage and passion for power and speed. Nothing reflects that prowess better than the legendary Le Mans 24 Hours, a race that Bentley has won on six occasions, where its powerful and reliable race cars thundered down the long Le Mans straight into the famous Mulsanne corner, from which the new model takes its name.

A pure expression of Bentley design
The design of the new Bentley Mulsanne is a unique fusion of sportiness, coachbuilt elegance and solidity. Echoing the Bentley S-Type of the 1950s, the Mulsanne features a bold frontal design dominated by the traditional Bentley matrix grille and highly prominent, classic round inner headlamps with chrome surrounds, flanked by two, smaller outboard lamp clusters, all featuring the latest in lighting technology. The iconic 'Flying B' retractable radiator mascot is available as an option.

The long bonnet, short front overhang and long rear overhang help to convey a sense of power and movement, reinforced by muscular haunches and sharply sculptured lines which flow gracefully from the front wings to the rear. Uniquely designed 20-inch wheels (and optional 21-inch) reinforce the Bentley Mulsanne's powerful, sporting stance.

Design Director Dirk van Braeckel explains the inspiration behind the Bentley Mulsanne's distinctive appearance: "The opportunity to design a new flagship Bentley is something afforded to very few designers. The team set out to create a sculpted form that blended classic Bentley heritage cues with modern lines that allow the marque to stride confidently into the 21st century."

The body is produced in a new manufacturing facility at Bentley's headquarters in Crewe where traditional metalworking skills, developed over six decades, are still used extensively during the nine-week build process. It is the very opposite of volume-production car-building… but the very epitome of Bentley.

The rear screen, for example is fully enveloped by the coachwork. This provides a flowing, flawless line to the rear of the car, complementing the exquisitely formed D-pillars - whose complex curves can only be created by skilled coach-builders. All spot welds are performed by hand during the Bentley Mulsanne's construction and all panel joints are hand-brazed. These further enhance that 'hewn from solid' appearance and result in an extremely stiff body.

The complex form of the aluminium front wings, impossible to achieve with normal pressing techniques, is created using superforming, a technology usually reserved for the aerospace industry. This also makes the wings both lighter, stiffer and provides superb surface definition. Other lightweight materials, such as the composite bootlid, are used to remove mass wherever possible without compromising quality.

New construction techniques meant the designers could also incorporate details such as the 'floating' elliptical LED tail lights, which uniquely echo the shape of the exhaust tailpipes.

Bentley Continental Supersports Convertible, 2011

Bentley Continental Supersports Convertible, 2011

 

 

 

The Bentley Continental Supersports Convertible further strengthens Bentley's supercar range, following the introduction of the Bentley Continental Supersports Coupé in 2009. The new Supersports Convertible, with the same 630PS (621bhp/463kW) twin-turbocharged W12 engine, is the fastest, most potent drop-top Bentley has ever built, offering the ultimate Bentley driving experience in the world's most dramatic convertible.

A highly focussed, pure Bentley driving experience
With 630PS (621bhp) and 800Nm (590lb ft) of torque from its pioneering FlexFuel engine and new 'Quickshift' transmission, the Bentley Continental Supersports Convertible is the fastest drop-top Bentley has ever built. It accelerates from 0-60mph in 3.9 seconds (0-100km/h in 4.2 seconds) and, conditions permitting, can continue onto a top speed of 202mph (325km/h).

The increased power and torque are transmitted to the all-wheel drive system via an uprated and rapid six-speed Quickshift transmission, which more than halves shift times (to just 93 milliseconds) and maximises the new Convertible's enormous potential. The revised gearbox also has the ability to deliver double downshifts (sixth to fourth gear, for example) and improves acceleration across the entire gear range. To cope with the additional power and torque, the planetary gear set of the ZF transmission is also strengthened.

Positive torque during downshifts is achieved through engine and gearbox electronic controller interaction for extra throttle and fuel injection during the overrun. During transmission upshifts, fuel and ignition are cut momentarily to give faster mechanical shift times through torque reduction, also improving shift quality and durability.

Designing the 'extreme' Bentley convertible- where form follows function
The evolution of the Bentley Continental Supersports Convertible's design is very much a case of form following function, with new purposeful sculptural forms signalling the engineering changes beneath the skin. Key engineering-led design changes to the Supersports include:
    * Revised front air intakes and new bonnet vents to improve airflow and cooling
    * Flared rear wings to accommodate wider rear track
    * Discreet bootlid spoiler benefitting aerodynamic balance at high speeds

The increased power and torque of the W12 engine necessitated an additional 10 per cent airflow to the twin turbocharger intercoolers and cooling system. With extensive use of Computational Fluid Dynamics techniques, Bentley's designers responded with a purposeful and dramatic style, featuring large vertical intake apertures. Twin bonnet vents were added to ensure positive air extraction.

From the front, the radiator, lower grille and dual bonnet vents are finished in a striking Smoked Steel finish. Derived from an innovative technology normally used to apply a coating to luxury watches and specialised industrial tools, Physical Vapour Deposition (PVD) is a complex and time-consuming process that involves vaporised metal being deposited onto the surface of, in this case, stainless steel.

Giving a darker, more solid appearance, it is the first use of a PVD finish on stainless steel in the car industry. In addition to the Smoked Steel finishes, a gloss black finish to the headlamp casings and rear lamp clusters gives the Bentley Continental Supersports convertible's distinctive face and muscular rear additional visual impact.

Restyled - and more aerodynamic - door mirrors match the exterior paint choice and the window and door surrounds replace polished stainless steel with a Smoked Steel finish to match the front grille. Eye-catching, black gloss Bentley-branded brake calipers act on the carbon ceramic brakes. Surrounding the brakes are the unique 20-inch, forged alloy wheels with Smoked Steel-finish which are exclusive to Supersports models. Large diameter tailpipe trims round out the car's purposeful stance when viewed from the rear. Beneath the bonnet Supersports badges grace the cover of the 630PS (621bhp) W12 engine.

The Bentley Continental Supersports Convertible has an electrically operated, three-layer fabric hood with advanced acoustic insulation to provide superb levels of refinement and comfort when raised. A choice of eight hood colours are available, including a new Dark Grey Metallic option, which is achieved by weaving a 'grey' acrylic fibre with a semi-transparent 'metallic effect' fibre in a twill weave construction to create a directional colour effect.

Bentley Continental Supersports, 2010

Bentley Continental Supersports, 2010

 

 

The Bentley Continental Supersports is the fastest and most powerful Bentley ever. It is the extreme Bentley, a muscular two-seater that delivers supercar performance and a highly focused driving experience. The Bentley Continental Supersports is also the first Bentley capable of running on both petrol (gasoline) and biofuel, pioneering the use of FlexFuel technology in the luxury sector. This represents stage one of the company's commitment to make its complete model range compatible with renewable fuels by 2012. Available worldwide from autumn 2009, the Bentley Continental Supersports will be FlexFuel compatible in the majority of markets from launch with North American cars offering the capability by summer 2010, following regulatory approval.

The Bentley Continental Supersports began as an 'under the radar' project exploring the possibilities of weight reduction on the Bentley Continental GT but with more power and torque. A largely experimental process crystallised over a period of 24 months into an official new car programme, driven by the passion and enthusiasm of a small group of Bentley engineers and designers. The results are dramatic. With 630PS (621 bhp) and new 'Quickshift' transmission that halves shift times, the Bentley Continental Supersports sets new performance benchmarks for Bentley. It accelerates from 0-60 mph in 3.7 seconds (0-100 km/h in 3.9 seconds) with a top speed of 204 mph (329 km/h).

The supercar performance is complemented by an array of chassis enhancements including retuned steering and suspension, utilising lighter weight components, retuned dampers and anti-roll bars. Agility is further sharpened by the 40:60 rear-biased torque split for the all-wheel drive system, a wider rear track, bespoke lightweight 20-inch alloy wheels and a unique electronic stability programme. Carbon ceramic brakes are standard fitment, benefiting steering response, grip and ride comfort, while saving weight. Overall, the engineering team have achieved a weight reduction of 110 kg (243 lb) compared with the Bentley Continental GT Speed.

The evolution of the Bentley Continental Supersports' design is very much a case of 'form following function' with new purposeful sculptural forms signalling the engineering changes beneath the skin. For example, the increased power and torque of the W12 engine necessitated additional airflow to the twin turbocharger intercoolers and cooling system. Bentley's designers responded with a purposeful and dramatic style that features large vertical intake apertures and twin bonnet vents. Similarly, new flared rear wings that accommodate the 50 mm (2 inches) wider rear track are designed to emphasise the powerful stance of this ultra-high performance coupe. The resultant Supersports style combines the looks of the iconic Continental GT with a new and distinctive appearance that reflects its more extreme character.

The Bentley Continental Supersports is further distinguished from its Continental coupe stable mates by a unique dark-smoked steel finish to all exterior 'brightware', including front grilles, lamp bezels, window surrounds and wheels. A complex 'Physical Vapour Deposition' process is applied to all stainless steel components to give a lustrous and highly durable finish. A car industry first, this process is normally used as a coating on industrial tools, watches and even hip replacement joints.

Fully embracing the extreme spirit of the Supersports, Bentley's interior designers have created a unique ambience. The cockpit represents a dramatic reinterpretation of Bentley interior design in which carbon fibre and Alcantara not only convey a sporting and contemporary style but also reduce weight. The Bentley Continental Supersports is a strict two-seater featuring all-new lightweight sports seats with carbon fibre clamshell rear panels. In the rear compartment, the seats are replaced by a stowage deck with a carbon fibre luggage retaining beam. The new interior also provides a showcase for the skills of Bentley's craftsmen and women at the company's factory in Crewe, England. Signature premium grade leather and brightware are complemented by carbon fibre panels, replacing traditional wood veneers.

The Bentley Continental Supersports is capable of running on either petrol and E85 biofuel or any combination of the two. E85 biofuel can offer a reduction of up to 70 per cent in CO2 emissions on a 'well-to-wheel' basis. Well-to-wheel is a measurement of a fuel's net CO2 contribution to the atmosphere, not just tailpipe emissions. It is a way of quantifying how much CO2 a fuel emits from its growth or extraction (well) to its combustion or deployment (wheel). It includes refinement, distillation and transport of the fuel. The fuel supply system detects the blending ratio of the fuel in the tank and ensures that power and torque remain constant regardless of the ratio of petrol to biofuel. The result is seamless power delivery in the Bentley tradition.

The 'Supersports' name is inspired by the original two-seater 3-litre Supersports model introduced in 1925, itself an evolution of the 3-litre Speed. The lightweight, 85 bhp Supersports was the first production Bentley to reach 100 mph and was also renowned for the application of Le Mans-winning race technology.

Bentley Continental Flying Star, 2010

Bentley Continental Flying Star, 2010

 

Flying Star in 2010 - the Bentley challenge
The Bentley Continental GT range set innovative and high standards for a new generation of very sophisticated Grand Tourers. As such, this model triggered the imagination of automotive designers and coach builders elsewhere. The GTC convertible, featuring a very rigid platform, proved to be a fully congruent basis to Touring Superleggera's plans for the new Bentley Continental Flying Star.

The new project required the modification of a number of external dimensions starting from the car's A-pillar backwards: extended roof line, a wider section including the doors, new aluminium door skins and a new all-aluminium, electrically operated tailgate. It also includes a completely new rear compartment with two foldable rear seats and a variable loading space.

This long list of modifications and transformations had to be paired with, and to remain fully compatible to the basic car's technical layout and components. Given the sophistication of the basic car, a new challenge was laid out for Touring's craftsmen and engineers. The final result proves that special coach building can live on well into the 21st. century working with respect to the original manufacturers.

Touring Superleggera is particularly proud of the fact that the complete productive cycle of the special coach building process was realized in their workshop near Milano. Modern body engineering went hand in hand with traditional handicraft skills, maintaining the highest quality directives for the final product.

Project Engineering
The body engineering processes at Carrozzeria Touring are aimed at safeguarding key parameters for quality, safety and feasibility, within the perspectives of low-volume automotive production. The project went through 1:4 and 1:1 modelling, based on the CAD and CATIA data from the basic vehicle. This digital basis resulted in a milled 1:1 master model and a number of 1:1 moulds for the manufacturing of the new external skin, and for important new body components. The rear bodywork was reinforced with an integrated structure between the rear suspension domes, functioning both as roll bar, and as support for the new, extended roofline.

Design
'Variations on a theme' not rarely implicate a larger design challenge, than starting-off with a white sheet of paper. The basic mission was to create a body incorporating the essence of Touring elegance and harmony, while clearly recognizable as a Bentley. This task was challenging because a fully new volume had to be added to the GTC basis. The proportions were totally new, but the overall design had to be kept consistent. That is why only the section in front of the car's A-pillar, including the windshield has been maintained.

Viewed from the rear, the new tailgate dives between the wide rear wings. The oval rear light chrome bezels are a reference to Bentley fastback cars of the '50. The side view features a low roof, prominent quarter panel shoulders and wide wheel arches, suggesting perfectly mastered energy.

The Touring Superleggera designers were challenged by the target to give the new interior equal elegance, whether the back of the rear seats are folded or not. The solution was to design an "S" shaped trim of the rear quarter panels linking the passenger area to the rear luggage area. The beige and dark green leather contrast also adds to this visual unity.

First time ever in this class and size, the twin individual rear seats fold completely to create a flat loading surface more than 2m long with 1200lt capacity. This is instrumental to fulfill the functional mission profile, which requires loading in full comfort a wide array of leisure equipment, including 4 full golfing bags with the rear seats up. An example of bespoke finish is the woven leather boot carpet offering superior endurance and coordinated with the special luggage set.

Manufacturing
When digital technologies are blended with traditional manufacturing skills, a fascinating process emerges that is typical for Touring Superleggera. A discriminating factor for traditional coach building was and is the vast amount of handwork that is involved in the creation of a new body. In this process, multiple practical solutions are also found for a wide variety of minor technical issues. This includes quick, practical solutions based on years-long experience, common sense and an expert eye.

Performance
The Bentley Continental Flying Star by Touring inherits the chassis of the Continental GTC. The 6-liter, W12 engine is available either in the 560HP version which delivers 650NM of torque at 1600rpm or the GTC Speed variant which delivers a massive 750Nm from 610HP. The car exhibited at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show featured the GTC Speed specifications.

Performance braking, cornering and traction functions mesh together to provide precise and immediate driving control under extreme or difficult conditions.
Self-adjusting air springs and electronic dampers operate independently for each wheel. Allwheel drive promotes advanced traction.

Homologation
The model is CEE homologated according to the new low-volume production directive. For the first time since its introduction, the type approval was awarded without destructive test, using simulation and FEM-analysis.

Bentley Continental Flying Star, 2010

Bentley Continental Flying Star, 2010

It takes an avid and passionate collector, with a taste for special coach building, to be at the basis of a project like the Bentley Continental Flying Star by Touring. Exactly such a person contacted Touring Superleggera in early 2008.

An interesting initial creative process emerged involving parameters for design, proportions, vehicle concepts and - last but not least- feasibility and technical factors. Many steps from design to execution were shared with the customer, who contributed with his own ideas and taste to personalise the project and create a unique automobile. A basic idea was formed by the desire to diversify Bentley's very successful Continental model range, and to explore new concepts.

The transformation of a 2-door coupé, by expanding the roof line and enlarging the interior dimensions, has led to a design concept baptised as shooting brake: a sports car featuring enough space to join a hunting party or a golf tournament with elegance and efficiency. Touring Superleggera explored the same field back in 1966, resulting in the amazing Lamborghini Flying Star II prototype. It was a dramatic interpretation of a sports car based on a new 2-volume design, safeguarding the dynamic performance. The Flying Star reference is a Touring parameter of sportive elegance, applied to many famous cars since the companies' start in 1926.

Flying Star in 2010 - the Bentley challenge
The Bentley Continental GT range set innovative and high standards for a new generation of very sophisticated Grand Tourers. As such, this model triggered the imagination of automotive designers and coach builders elsewhere. The GTC convertible, featuring a very rigid platform, proved to be a fully congruent basis to Touring Superleggera's plans for the new Bentley Continental Flying Star.

Project Engineering
The body engineering processes at Carrozzeria Touring are aimed at safeguarding key parameters for quality, safety and feasibility, within the perspectives of low-volume automotive production. The project went through 1:4 and 1:1 modelling, based on the CAD and CATIA data from the basic vehicle. This digital basis resulted in a milled 1:1 master model and a number of 1:1 moulds for the manufacturing of the new external skin, and for important new body components. The rear bodywork was reinforced with an integrated structure between the rear suspension domes, functioning both as roll bar, and as support for the new, extended roofline.

All structural additions and modifications were thoroughly studied, using advanced simulation methods and FEM-analysis. As a parallel process, these data served for the homologation of the structural changes, including the new foldable rear seats. An important number of hard points from the basic car could be saved and carried-over. The engineering team at Carrozzeria Touring was particularly pleased with the quality assurance support from Bentley engineers.

Design
'Variations on a theme' not rarely implicate a larger design challenge, than starting-off with a white sheet of paper. The basic mission was to create a body incorporating the essence of Touring elegance and harmony, while clearly recognizable as a Bentley. This task was challenging because a fully new volume had to be added to the GTC basis. The proportions were totally new, but the overall design had to be kept consistent. That is why only the section in front of the car's A-pillar, including the windshield has been maintained.

Viewed from the rear, the new tailgate dives between the wide rear wings. The oval rear light chrome bezels are a reference to Bentley fastback cars of the '50. The side view features a low roof, prominent quarter panel shoulders and wide wheel arches, suggesting perfectly mastered energy.

The Touring Superleggera designers were challenged by the target to give the new interior equal elegance, whether the back of the rear seats are folded or not. The solution was to design an "S" shaped trim of the rear quarter panels linking the passenger area to the rear luggage area. The beige and dark green leather contrast also adds to this visual unity.

First time ever in this class and size, the twin individual rear seats fold completely to create a flat loading surface more than 2m long with 1200lt capacity. This is instrumental to fulfill the functional mission profile, which requires loading in full comfort a wide array of leisure equipment, including 4 full golfing bags with the rear seats up. An example of bespoke finish is the woven leather boot carpet offering superior endurance and coordinated with the special luggage set.

The overall result is perfectly in line with the Touring and Flying Star heritage: a timeless shape, a design statement combining elegance and sportiveness, with a strong and unmistakable own personality and individuality.

Manufacturing
When digital technologies are blended with traditional manufacturing skills, a fascinating process emerges that is typical for Touring Superleggera. A discriminating factor for traditional coach building was and is the vast amount of handwork that is involved in the creation of a new body. In this process, multiple practical solutions are also found for a wide variety of minor technical issues. This includes quick, practical solutions based on years-long experience, common sense and an expert eye.

The result is a final product entirely produced within the high quality parameters of today's automotive industry.

From the A-pillar backwards, new exterior body panels were hand shaped in steel - including the roof, new wider rear wings, and the internal reinforcements of the complete rear section of the car. Aluminium was used for the door skins, and for the complete rear bonnet including its structure. New, handmade brightwork was added according to the new exterior design.

The all new rear compartment required shaping of the foldable rear seats and a full set of interior panels, leather trimmed with meticulous care. Wide leather hides were selected with great attention to provide uniform finish to the vast continuous surfaces.

Performance
The Bentley Continental Flying Star by Touring inherits the chassis of the Continental GTC. The 6-liter, W12 engine is available either in the 560HP version which delivers 650NM of torque at 1600rpm or the GTC Speed variant which delivers a massive 750Nm from 610HP. The car exhibited at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show featured the GTC Speed specifications.

Performance braking, cornering and traction functions mesh together to provide precise and immediate driving control under extreme or difficult conditions.
Self-adjusting air springs and electronic dampers operate independently for each wheel. Allwheel drive promotes advanced traction.

Homologation
The model is CEE homologated according to the new low-volume production directive. For the first time since its introduction, the type approval was awarded without destructive test, using simulation and FEM-analysis.

Bentley Continental Flying Spur Speed, 2009

Bentley Continental Flying Spur Speed, 2009

 

 

 Bentley - almost half of new Continental GTs now sold are Speed versions - Bentley now offers the 600bhp (610PS) W12 powertrain in the new Bentley Continental Flying Spur Speed to deliver a more powerful and engaging Bentley driving experience.

The Speed engine develops 15 percent more torque and nine percent more power than the standard Flying Spur, while engine efficiency is optimised by the use of lower friction, lighter-weight components and a new engine management system. The resultant performance is exceptional, with a top speed of 200mph (322km/h), a zero to 60mph sprint time of just 4.5 seconds (0-100km/h in 4.8s) and effortless overtaking capability.

The most powerful four-door Bentley ever made, the Bentley Continental Flying Spur Speed blends understated design cues to distinguish it from the Flying Spur. Its front grille and lower air intakes are dark-tinted chrome, while at the rear wider rifled sports exhaust tailpipes hint at the potential of the Speed model.

New 20-inch multi-spoke wheels available in both bright silver or darkened carry bespoke Pirelli PZero performance tyres introduced on the GT Speed model, which provide the car with superb grip and feedback.

The Speed's sporting performance is complemented by a highly capable chassis. Tauter handling and greater steering response with sharper turn-in and improved driver feedback is achieved through a retuned Servotronic steering system, direct-mounted front subframe and stiffer bushings.
Improved agility and body control is also achieved through uprated spring and damper settings as well as thicker anti-roll bars front and rear. To aid the car's high-speed dynamics, the Bentley Continental Flying Spur Speed's self-levelling air suspension sits 10mm lower.

The advanced electronic stability programme (ESP), uprated to ESP 8.1 for both models, provides a greater degree of driver interaction and control.

The Bentley Continental Flying Spur Speed offers a new 'Dynamic Mode' that allows increased wheel slip at higher speeds. Torque is reinstated more quickly after the traction control system is triggered, giving the spirited driver a greater sense of control and the ability to exploit the full potential of the new engine.

ENGINE
    * Type: 12-cylinder, 6-litre twin-turbocharged engine
    * Installation: Front, longitudinal, all-wheel drive
    * Construction: Alloy heads and block
    * Bore/stroke: 84 x 90.2mm
    * Capacit:y 5998cc
    * Compression ratio: 9.0:1
    * Valve gear: Chain-driven DOHC per bank, 4 valves per cylinder, cam phased inlet and outlet
    * Power: 600bhp/610PS/449kW @ 6000rev/min
    * Torque: 553lb ft/750Nm @ 1750rev/min
    * Fuel: 98 (95) RON

PERFORMANCE
    * Top speed: 200mph (322km/h)
    * 0-60mph (0-100km/h): 4.5 seconds (4.8 seconds)
    * 0-100mph (0-160km/h): 10.5 seconds (10.4 seconds)
    * 50-70mph (80-120km/h): 2.4 seconds (3.1 seconds)