Bentley announced the launch of their latest model – the new Bentley Continental Supersports. With a top speed of 336 km/h (209 mph) and a 0-100 km/h time of 3.5 seconds (0-60 mph time of 3.4 seconds), the Bentley Continental Supersports is claimed to be the world’s fastest and most powerful luxury four-seat coupe.
Likewise, its soft-top sibling, the Continental Supersports Convertible, is the fastest four-seat convertible on the planet, capable of hitting a top speed 330 km/h (205 km/h) hitting 100 km/h in 3.9 secs (60 mph in 3.7 seconds) on its way.
Bentley’s 6.0L W12 engine has been redeveloped for the Supersports with new high-performance turbos and upgraded main and conrod bearings. These results in an increase of 79 bhp (80 PS) and 217 Nm (160 lb.ft.) over the 2009 Supersports model – a 10 percent power-to-weight and 25 percent torque-to-weight ratio improvement. Peak output now stands at 700 bhp (710 PS) and 1,017 Nm (750 lb. ft.). The Supersports also benefits from a new ZF-sourced 8-speed torque converter which locks up faster allowing the car accelerate faster.
Helping the Supersports shed speed are carbon Carbon Silicon Carbide discs brakes of a 420 mm dia. upfront and 356 mm dia at the rear – with enhanced cooling. The brakes sit behind lightweight 21-inch forged alloy wheels and together offer a 20 kg weight saving in unsprung mass. A further 5 kg weight-saving is offered via an optional titanium exhaust system that breathes more freely and provide a distinctive exhaust note that crackles on down-shifts. These improvements make it lighter than the 2009 four-seat Supersports model and those in the current Continental GT range too.
The Bentley Continental Supersports has a specifically calibrated version of the torque vectoring system first introduced on the Continental GT3-R. But it retains the rear-biased torque split of Bentley’s all-wheel-drive system, sending 60 per cent of the engine’s power to the rear wheels as standard, but adjusts the front-rear power split depending on traction. The Supersports’ lowered and stiffened dynamic suspension set-up is also claimed to retain all of its luxurious ride quality for passengers over the long haul.
Exterior changes include newly formed front and rear bumper incorporating a carbon-fibre splitter and diffuser respectively, new side sill extensions and bonnet vents also finished in carbon-fibre, gloss-black front wing vents and rifled exhaust tailpipe design. It also gets dark-tint headlamps and tail-lamps, and black-finished brightware for the front grilles, lights, rear bumper, door handles and window surrounds to add to the sinister look.
There is also an optional, aerodynamically balanced rear spoiler and front splitter combination for the coupe, new Supersports badging, a new black and bright-machined finish for the 21-inch forged alloy wheels and optional side decals. There is also an optional gloss-finished, Supersports-branded carbon-fibre engine available.
The new Bentley Continental Supersports Convertible has a multi-layer hood tested in all conditions from -30°C to +50°C available to withstand heavy rainfall and keep the cabin draft-free. It also features neck warmer.
On the inside, the unique colour split has been created, using three colours: the first tri-tone interior offered in this generation Continental GT. A new diamond-quilted design is incorporated in the seats and door side panels for a unique signature in Alcantara, while chequered Supersports carbon-fibre fascia panels join the existing list of ten veneers and finishes available. The interior is completed by new Supersports emblem stitching, and a bespoke steering wheel and unique gearlever, both featuring Alcantara accents.
For Bentley Continental Supersports customers seeking even more personalisation, an ‘X Specification’ pack is available, consisting of eight unique duo-tone paint treatments and carbon-fibre door mirrors and heel plates. The titanium exhaust option is included, as is a carbon-fibre finish to the interior side panels, the carbon-fibre engine cover and a gloss black finish to the 21-inch forged wheels. As with all Bentleys, the Supersports can also be handed over to the artisans at Mulliner, who will respond to individual customer requirements.
