When Bentley unveiled the second-generation Continental GT, many observers felt it looked too similar to its predecessor. And while, yes, it can take a second glance to tell the two cars apart, the latest model is much improved from a driving standpoint. Bentley cut some 140 pounds from the old car, and even more weight savings were realized by the introduction of an Audi-derived V-8 engine to complement the W-12. The V-8 is thus the driving enthusiast’s choice, and now the brand is taking it farther with the racing-inspired Continental GT3-R.
Output stands at 572 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 516 lb-ft of torque at 1700 rpm, which makes the GT3-R the most powerful car to pack the twin-turbo 4.0-liter V-8 to date. Bentley has culled a whopping 220 pounds from the standard GT, and says the GT3-R will sprint to 60 mph in a mere 3.6 seconds. It is the fastest-accelerating Continental GT ever, but we think it could be even quicker: Bentley claims a 4.3-second time for the Continental V8 S, but we achieved 3.9. Curiously, the GT3-R is also the slowest Continental, with an ungoverned top speed of “just” 170 mph due to its shorter gearing, according to the company. For those who might care, fuel economy is rated at 15 mpg.
The all-wheel-drive system incorporates the brand’s first torque-vectoring function; the tech should help this somewhat nose-heavy bruiser turn more smartly, and we expect it to spread to the rest of the GT lineup in short order. Other weapons in the GT3-R’s arsenal include a suspension retuned “for outright cornering ability” and a reprogrammed stability-control system. Power is transmitted through an eight-speed automatic. Carbon brakes and forged 21-inch wheels wrapped in high-performance Pirelli rubber underscore this Bentley’s serious mission, as does the ditching of the rear seats—this is strictly a two-person chariot.
The interior maintains a high level of luxury, albeit with sporty touches, and is lined with leather and faux suede upholstery and carbon-fiber trim. Green leather is used to accent the door panels, seats, dash, and center console. Outside, the front splitter, fixed rear spoiler, and highlighted character lines create an aggressive look that hints, we’re told, at even sportier things to come from the brand.
- 2014 Bentley Continental V8 S Tested: This Gray Fox Can Bust a Move
- Bentley Continental GT3 Race Car: 600-hp V-8, RWD, 2100 Fewer Pounds
- Bentley Continental GT Pricing, Specs, Review, News, and More
Pricing hasn’t been announced yet, but a company insider confides that the Continental GT3-R will be the dearest Continental GT by a significant margin. (Four years’ free maintenance will be included, though!) Just 300 will be built, and all will be prepped by Bentley’s motorsports division.
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