2009 Bentley Continental GTC Speed
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Price |
-- |
Production |
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Engine |
W12 |
Weight |
-- | ||
|
Aspiration |
twin turbochargers |
Torque |
553 lb-ft @ 1700 -5600 rpm | ||
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HP |
600 hp |
HP/Weight |
-- | ||
|
HP/Liter |
-- |
1/4 mile |
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0-60 mph |
4.5 seconds |
Top Speed |
200 mph |
(from Bentley Press
Release) The 200 mph GTC Speed is Bentley’s most powerful
convertible ever. The latest GTC range is refined and extended with
two new models The new GTC delivers enhanced style, comfort and
choice
Now, the introduction of the new GTC range builds on this success
with a subtle evolution of its distinctive style and a range of
technical and feature enhancements benefiting comfort and customer
choice. The appeal of the GTC is further strengthened by the
addition of the new 600bhp (610PS) GTC Speed model. It is Bentley’s
most powerful convertible ever and inspired by Bentley’s legendary
‘Speed Models’ from the 1920s.
The new GTC models share a fresh frontal appearance. The radiator
grille is more upright with a more pronounced square edge,
accentuating the Bentley profile, and bolder lower air intake. These
latest models are further distinguished by chrome headlamp bezels,
the availability of two new exterior paints and a new colour hide.
For the standard GTC, new low-friction dampers provide improved ride
comfort. In addition, two significant new options may be specified
on both GTC models: lightweight, fade-resistant, carbon-ceramic
brakes, the largest production passenger car brakes in the world,
and a sophisticated follow-to-stop Adaptive Cruise Control system
with long-range radar sensor that monitors traffic ahead and manages
throttle and brakes to maintain a driver-selected time gap.
The GTC’s chassis and exceptionally rigid steel body have proved
more than capable of coping with the power of the 552bhp (560PS)
6-litre W12 engine. For the new Continental GTC Speed, Bentley’s
twin-turbocharged W12 now develops 600bhp (610PS) that delivers true
200 mph (322 km/h) performance, with the roof up, with exhilarating,
effortless acceleration. Even with the roof down the GTC Speed can
reach 195 mph (312 km/h).
The Continental GTC Speed is visually distinguished by subtle design
enhancements which emphasise its higher performance credentials. At
the front, the radiator and lower air intake grilles feature a dark
tinted matrix as standard. Larger diameter 9.5J x 20-inch,
multi-spoke alloy wheels with Bentley-bespoke Pirelli PZero
ultra-high performance (UHP) tyres, lowered and uprated suspension,
wider twin-rifled exhaust tail pipes and a new boot-mounted lip
spoiler that enhances high speed aerodynamics, reinforce the
sporting character of the Speed model.
The GTC Speed’s 600bhp (610PS) W12 engine develops 9 per cent more
power than the standard GTC. However, it is the 15 per cent increase
in torque that really distinguishes the Speed model, which now
develops an impressive output of 750 Nm (553lb ft). This is achieved
across virtually the complete rev range, from just 1700 to 5600
rev/min, delivering that characteristic Bentley wave of torque.
The 0-60 mph sprint is despatched in a mere 4.5 seconds (0-100km/h
in 4.8 seconds) and 0-100 mph in 10.6 seconds (0-160 km/h in 10.5
seconds).
The GT Speed coupe, which debuted in 2007, has become the top
selling GT model across the globe. This was followed in summer 2008
by the 4-door Continental Flying Spur Speed. Now, the Speed family
is completed with the introduction of the GTC Speed, which is
expected to account for up to two-thirds of GTC sales worldwide in
its first year of production.
Bentley Chairman and Chief Executive, Dr. Franz-Josef Paefgen
explains the rationale behind the GTC Speed:
“The Continental GTC is an elegant Grand Touring convertible in the
Bentley tradition, exciting the emotions with its distinctive blend
of performance, luxury, craftsmanship and modernity. The GTC Speed
completes the family of Continental Speed models and broadens the
appeal of the GTC to customers who demand a more focused, open-top
driving experience.”
BENTLEY CONTINENTAL GTC – NEWS IN BRIEF
Continental GTC range
Continental GTC Speed
Technical
Exterior
Interior
Continental GTC
Enhanced powertrain delivers more power and torque
Both Continental GTC models are powered by Bentley’s 6-litre,
twin-turbocharged W12 engine which is produced exclusively at the
company’s Crewe engine plant. The Bentley W12 is the most compact
12-cylinder engine in production with 48 valves and 4 camshafts with
continually variable valve timing. Power is transmitted via a ZF
six-speed automatic transmission.
The new Continental GTC Speed is powered by Bentley’s W12 engine in
its most powerful, 600 bhp (610PS) form. It develops 15 per cent
more torque and 9 per cent more power than the 552bhp (560PS)
standard GTC.
Engine efficiency improvements result from the use of lower
friction, lighter-weight components and a new engine management
system, while twin, low inertia turbochargers with minimal turbo lag
contribute to the W12 engine’s flat torque curve. In 600 bhp (610PS)
form, the W12 develops a maximum torque of 750 Nm (553 lb ft) from
1700 rev/min all the way up to 5600 rev/min. The GTC Speed engine is
visually differentiated by the ‘crackle black’ finish to the intake
manifold.
This endows the GTC Speed with a top speed of 200mph (322 km/h) with
the roof-up and a 0-60mph sprint time of just 4.5 seconds (0-100
km/h in 4.8 secs). It also accelerates from 0-100 mph in just 10.6
seconds (0-160 km/h in 10.5 seconds).
The six-speed transmission can be left in two fully automatic modes
(Drive and Sport) or used as a clutchless manual where the driver
can change gears sequentially, via either the gearlever or paddles
mounted behind the steering wheel.
The advanced continuous all-wheel drive system of both GTC models
provides exceptional traction in all weathers. The drive is
transferred between the front and rear axles via a highly sensitive
centre Torsen differential. If the differential detects a deviation
in torque demand between the two axles it automatically sends more
power to the wheels with greater grip.
Both the GTC and GTC Speed also feature an advanced electronic
stability programme (ESP 8.1). The ‘Sport Traction’ mode for the GTC
moderates ESP intervention at low speeds, benefiting driver
interaction and control, particularly on low traction surfaces. The
‘Dynamic Mode’ of the GTC Speed allows increased wheel slip at
higher speeds compared to the standard chassis. This ensures that
torque is reinstated more quickly, allowing the driver to exploit
the full potential of the engine.
Brian Gush, Director, Chassis and Powertrain Engineering, comments:
“The new GTC Speed exemplifies our passion for creating cars that
deliver exceptional performance and driving enjoyment. It is a
driver’s car which will redefine people’s expectations of what a
luxury convertible can achieve.”
A luxury convertible with outstanding ride and handling
The Continental GTC’s steel body has an exceptionally rigid
torsional stiffness of around 30Hz that not only minimises ‘scuttle
shake’ but provides a very stable platform for the aluminium-intensive
suspension system, optimising its performance. Despite the boost in
power and torque for the GTC Speed model, no changes to the body
structure were required.
For the 552bhp (560PS) GTC, new low-friction dampers provide
improved secondary ride (the response of the car to poor road
surfaces) and even greater levels of comfort.
The GTC Speed has a range of dynamic enhancements that deliver a
more sporting, open-top Bentley driving experience. The retuned
Continous Damping Control (CDC) system ensures that the body
response matches the inputs from the new sports wheels and tyres,
while improved body control reduces pitch and roll when cornering
enthusiastically. In addition, stiffer rear axle bushes deliver
better axle control and turn-in response.
The GTC Speed’s suspension is lowered by 10 mm at the front and 15
mm at the rear for improved handling, while the retuned
speed-sensitive steering system and solid-mounted front subframe,
shared with the standard GTC, benefit steering response.
The wider 9.5J x 20-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels, unique to the GTC
Speed, are fitted with bespoke 275/35 ZR20 Pirelli PZero ultra-high
performance tyres that provide the car with superior grip as well as
sharper steering response and feel.
To ensure optimum aerodynamic balance at speeds up to 200 mph (322
km/h) the new GTC Speed is fitted with a discreet spoiler on the
trailing edge of the bootlid. This provides additional downforce and
increases the top speed.
For both models, Bentley’s carbon-ceramic brakes (CCB) are offered
as a cost option. Larger diameter (420 mm front, 356 mm rear),
lightweight discs and eight-piston callipers offer fade-resistant
braking performance with minimal disc distortion under high thermal
conditions. A 20kg weight saving reduces unsprung mass and benefits
steering response and handling. This braking system may only be
specified with 20-inch diameter wheels and are the largest and most
powerful brakes ever fitted to a production car.
The standard-fit tyre-pressure monitoring system (TPMS) allows
drivers to select tyre type and speed range parameters. As well as
monitoring pressures, the system warns drivers if their speed is too
high for the tyre pressures or if tyre speed ratings are exceeded on
winter tyres.
Commenting on the GTC Speed’s character, Dr. Ulrich Eichhorn, Member
of the Board, Engineering, said:
“The GTC Speed offers supercar performance, superb refinement,
comfort and unrivalled craftsmanship all in one car. It perfectly
evokes the spirit of the original Bentley ‘Speed Model’ of the
1920s.”
Subtle evolution of the GTC’s distinctive style
Both the GTC and GTC Speed benefit from subtle revisions to their
frontal appearance.
The matrix grille is now more vertical and has a more pronounced
square edge that accentuates the distinctive Bentley profile. A new
lower bumper design with a widened air intake reinforces the
sporting stance of both GTC convertibles, complemented by new chrome
headlamp bezels. The new design also provides a practical benefit by
improving airflow to the more powerful Speed engine by 14 per cent.
The GTC Speed has a unique set of design cues, notably a dark-tinted
matrix grille to the upper and lower air intakes, a black lower
bumper valance, wider, rifled exhaust tailpipes and 20-inch,
silver-painted, multi-spoke alloy wheels. The wheels are available
as an option with a special dark tint finish.
GTC and GTC Speed customers have a choice of 17 ‘standard’ paint
colours including two new colours (Aquamarine and Blue Crystal).
Luxurious hand-crafted cabin
The cabins of both GTC and GTC Speed are available with a choice of
6 natural, unbleached, laser-cut wood veneers and 17 premium grade
leather hides, including the new option, Aquamarine.
The GTC Speed’s cabin is based on that of the Mulliner Driving
Specification (a cost option on the standard GTC). It features
diamond quilted hide seats with embroidered Bentley emblems, a
knurled chrome and hide gearlever and a three-spoke multi-function
steering wheel with brushed aluminium switch surround. These are
complemented by drilled alloy foot-pedals and ‘Speed’ logos to the
polished treadplates. The standard GTC also receives a new Bentley
‘B’ brake pedal.
A range of options give further opportunities for personalisation,
including fascia panels, centre console, door pads and rear quarters
in bright aluminium. Uniquely, the GTC Speed is also available with
a dark tint aluminium option.
New adaptive cruise control system
A sophisticated follow-to-stop, radar-based Adaptive Cruise Control
(ACC) system is now available on both GTC and GTC Speed. It uses a
long-range radar sensor, mounted in the lower front grille, to
monitor the road ahead for other vehicles. When a slower moving
vehicle is detected, the system automatically adjusts the throttle
or brakes to maintain a ‘time gap’, as selected by the driver.
GTC and GTC Speed interior key features:
? DVD satellite navigation system with route guidance and post-code
entry
? Optional television tuner (except for US market)
? Climate control operation
? Computerised suspension control operation (damper and ride height
settings)
? 6-CD auto changer in glove compartment
? Optional Naim for Bentley premium audio system featuring 1100 Watt
amplifier and 14 speakers
CONTINENTAL GTC SPEED AND GTC
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
MODEL TYPE
Body type Two-door, 2+2 Grand Tourer convertible
Construction Steel monocoque with aluminium, steel and composite
panels and closure
ENGINE
Type Twin-turbocharged W12 engine
Installation Front, longitudinal
Construction Alloy block and heads
Bore/stroke 84.0 x 90.2 mm
Capacity 6.0-litre, 5998 cc
Compression ratio 9.0:1
Valve gear Chain-driven DOHC per bank, 4 valves per cylinder, cam
phased inlet and outlet
Power
GTC Speed 600 bhp / 610 PS / 449 kW @ 6000 rev/min
GTC 552 bhp / 560 PS / 412 kW @ 6100 rev/min
Torque
GTC Speed 750 Nm / 553 lb ft between 1750 – 5600 rev/min
GT 650 Nm / 479 lb ft @ between1600 – 6100 rev/min
Fuel 98 (95) RON
TRANSMISSION
Type Continuous all-wheel drive
Gearbox ZF 6-speed automatic with fully automatic or
sequential ‘manual’ operation with paddleshift feature; torque
converter lock-up clutch
Ratios 1st: 4.17
2nd: 2.34
3rd: 1.52
4th: 1.14
5th: 0.87
6th: 0.69
Final drive: 3.524 (front), 3.528 (rear)
SUSPENSION
Front Four-link double wishbones, computer-controlled self-levelling
air suspension, anti-roll bar
Rear Trapezoidal multi-link, computer-controlled self-levelling air
suspension, anti-roll bar
Springs Computer-controlled progressive air springs
Dampers Continuous damping control, with four adjustable settings
STEERING
Type Rack & pinion, power-assisted, speed-sensitive
Turns lock to lock 2.7
Turning circle (kerb to kerb) 11.4 m ( 37’ 5”)
BRAKES
Front 405 mm ventilated discs (optional 420 mm carbon/ ceramic,
cross-drilled discs – with 20-inch wheels)
Rear 335 mm ventilated discs (optional 356 mm carbon/ ceramic,
cross-drilled discs – with 20-inch wheels)
Anti lock Standard ESP and Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD)
WHEELS & TYRES
Wheels
GTC Speed 9.5J 20-inch Alloy
GTC 9.0J 19-inch Alloy (optional 9.0J 20-inch Alloy)
Tyres
GTC Speed 275/35 x ZR20 bespoke Pirelli PZero UHP
GTC 275/40 x ZR19 Pirelli PZero Rosso
(optional 275/30 x 20 Pirelli PZero)
DIMENSIONS
EXTERIOR
Overall length 4804 mm (189.1 in)
Overall width (inc. mirrors) 2194 mm (86.4 in)
Height (roof raised)
GTC Speed 1388 mm (54.6 in)
GTC 1398 mm (55.0 in)
Wheelbase 2745 mm (108.1 in)
Front track 1623 mm (63.9 in)
Rear track 1607 mm (63.3 in)
INTERIOR
Front headroom 942 mm (37.1 in)
Front legroom 1075 mm (42.3 in)
Front shoulder room 1568 mm (61.7 in)
Rear headroom 979 mm (38.5 in)
Rear legroom 743 mm (29.3 in)
Rear shoulder room 1318 mm (51.9 in)
WEIGHTS & CAPACITIES
GTC Speed & GTC
Kerbweight 2485 kg (5478 lb)
Gross vehicle weight 2900 kg (6393 lb)
Luggage capacity 235 litres
Fuel tank capacity 90 litres (24 US gallons)
PERFORMANCE
Top speed (roof up)
GTC Speed 200 mph (322 km/h)
GTC 195 mph (312 km/h)
Top speed (roof down)
GTC Speed 195 mph (314 km/h)
GTC 190 mph (306 km/h)
0-60 mph (0-100 km/h)
GTC Speed 4.5 seconds (4.8 seconds)
GTC 4.8 seconds (5.1 seconds)
0-100 mph (0-160 km/h)
GTC Speed 10.6 seconds (10.5 seconds)
GTC 11.4 seconds (11.4 seconds)
FUEL CONSUMPTION/EMISSIONS
EU CYCLE
GTC Speed and GTC
Urban 11.2 mpg (25.3 litres/100 km)
Extra-Urban 24.3 mpg (11.6 litres/100 km)
Combined 17.0 mpg (16.6 litres/100 km)
Co2 emissions 396 g/km
Emission controls EU 1V and US LEV II
EPA DRIVE CYCLE
GTC Speed and GTC
City Driving 10.0 mpg (US)
Highway Driving 17.0 mpg (US)
FEATURE SPECIFICATIONS
CONTINENTAL GTC SPEED
EXTERIOR FEATURES Dark tinted radiator grille and lower grille
Chromed headlamp bezels
Twin rifled oval stainless steel sports tail pipes
Lowered sports suspension
20-inch, two-piece, multi-spoke alloy wheels
INTERIOR FEATURES Unique treadplates bearing ‘Speed’ model name
Diamond quilted hide to seat facings, doors
and rear quarter panels
Embroidered Bentley emblem to seat facings
Cloth hide headlining
Single-tone, hide-trimmed multi-function steering
wheel in a 3-spoke sports design with brushed silver
switch surround
Sporting gear lever finished in knurled chrome and hide
Drilled alloy sport foot-pedals
CONTINENTAL GTC
EXTERIOR FEATURES Bright chromed radiator grille
Chromed headlamp bezels
Twin oval stainless steel tail pipes
INTERIOR FEATURES Single tone, hide-trimmed multi-function
steering wheel in a 4-spoke design
Brake pedal with Bentley ‘B’ emblem
Hide and chrome trimmed gear lever with
manual shift change facility
SELECTION OF OPTIONS AVAILABLE
‘Naim for Bentley’ premium audio system
iPod/MP3/USB interface
20-inch, two-piece, seven-spoke alloy wheels (GTC only)
Fade-resistant carbon ceramic brakes
ACC Adaptive Cruise Control
THE MULLINER DRIVING SPECIFICATION
(STANDARD ON GTC SPEED, OPTIONAL ON GTC)
THIS PACKAGE INCLUDES:
Piano Black (additional veneers available at extra cost)
MULLINER FEATURES AVAILABLE SEPARATELY FOR BOTH MODELS:
(choice of veneers - Burr Walnut, Chestnut, Dark Stained Burr
Walnut,
Madrona, Piano Black)
(matched to carpet)