2014 Bentley Continental GT V8 S Convertible

Two new Bentley Continental V8 models will be unveiled at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit on 9th January 2012. The new 4.0 litre, twin turbocharged V8 Continental GT coupé and GTC convertible achieve exceptional standards for power-to-emissions in the high luxury sports car sector.

This remarkable, new Bentley V8 engine delivers maximum power of 500bhp (507PS/373Kw) at 6000 rev/min and an extraordinary peak torque of 660Nm (487 lb ft) which is available across virtually the entire rev range from 1700 to 5000 rev/min, providing exhilarating performance and effortless power delivery in the Bentley tradition. Combined with a new close-ratio 8-speed automatic transmission, this translates into a sub-5 second acceleration time for the 0-60 mph (0-100km/h) sprint and a top speed of over 180mph (290km/h).

At the same time, the new V8 Continental models achieve outstanding levels of fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions for the luxury performance sector and are capable of travelling over 500 miles (800km) on a single tank of fuel. Full and official figures will be released in early 2012.

The arrival of the new V8 Continental models fulfils Bentley’s environmental commitment to produce a new powertrain that delivers a 40 per cent improvement in fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions.

The new V8 engine features variable displacement with a highly sophisticated engine management system, ensuring a seamless and imperceptible transition from V8 to V4 mode under light throttle load.

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

The instantly recognisable growl of the new 4.0 litre V8 engine sets it apart from its Bentley stablemates.

The new V8 engine will be available in two models; the Continental GT and the Continental GTC. Expressing their potent, muscular character, these models are distinguished by a black gloss matrix grille with chrome frame and centre bar, a red enamel Bentley ‘B’ badge, and a black matrix three-segment lower front bumper divided by distinctive body-coloured strakes.

At the rear, unique chromed ‘figure eight’ exhaust tailpipes, a dark lower valance and red enamel ‘B’ bootlid badge emphasise the sporty, contemporary identity of the new V8s.

Both models are specified with 20-inch alloy wheels as standard with an optional 21-inch six-spoke design which is available in dramatic Diamond Black (exclusive to the Continental V8) or Diamond Silver finishes.

Inside the cabin, an Eliade cloth headlining, new contemporary Dark Fiddleback Eucalyptus veneers, optional two-tone leather colour split and short centre console continue the fresh, sporting design theme.

The two new Continental models will be offered beneath the flagship 6.0 litre,12-cylinder engined Continental GT and GTC, which continue to excite customers with a combination of silken refinement and the ultimate power of the twin-turbocharged W12 Continental engine that, in its most potent form, delivers an astonishing 631bhp (640PS).

Both new models feature a state-of-the-art, all-wheel drive system employing an advanced Torsen differential and a 40:60 rear biased power split. This ensures safe yet dynamic sports car handling in all road conditions.

Since the launch of the original GT in 2003, the W12-engined Continental range has gone from strength to strength with over 50,000 sales worldwide, making Bentley’s factory in Crewe, England, the largest producer of 12 cylinder engines in the world. The W12 story continues to unfold and remains the ultimate expression of Bentley’s engineering strength.

Commenting on the launch of the new V8 Continental models, Wolfgang Dürheimer, Chairman and Chief Executive, Bentley Motors said:

“With the new 4.0 litre V8 engine we are widening the appeal of the latest generation of Continentals, introducing a completely new driving experience. The new engine will have all the exhilarating power, drama and performance you would expect from a V8 engine sporting the famous Bentley wings, effortlessly delivered with our characteristic ‘wave of torque’. This is complemented by innovative powertrain technology that delivers exceptional fuel efficiency and emissions.”

In Detail

type	Series Production Car
released at	2013 Frankfurt Motor Show
built at	Crewe, England
engine	4.0TFSI V8
position	Front Longitudinal
aspiration	Twin Scroll Turbochargers
ignition	Coil-On-Plug
block material	Aluminium-Silicon Alloy
valvetrain	DOHC 4 Valves per Cyl
fuel feed	Direct Fuel Injection
displacement	3993 cc / 243.67 in³
bore	84.5 mm / 3.3 in
stroke	89 mm / 3.5 in
compression	10.5:1
power	389 kw / 521 bhp @ 6000 rpm
specific output	130.48 bhp per litre
bhp/weight	210.93 bhp per tonne
torque	680 nm / 501.5 ft lbs @ 1700 rpm
body / frame	Unitary Steel Monocoque
driven wheels	Continuous AWD
front tires	275/40 ZR20
rear tires	275/40 ZR20
front brakes	Ventilated Discs
rear brakes	Ventilated Discs
front wheels	F 50.8 x 24.1 cm / 20 x 9.5 in
rear wheels	R 50.8 x 24.1 cm / 20 x 9.5 in
steering	Rack & Pinion
f suspension	Double Wishbones w/Air Suspension, Anti-Roll Bar
r suspension	Trapezoidal Multi-Link w/Air Suspension
curb weight	2470 kg / 5446 lbs
wheelbase	2746 mm / 108.1 in
length	4806 mm / 189.2 in
width	2227 mm / 87.7 in
height	1404 mm / 55.3 in
transmission	8-Speed Automatic
top speed	~308 kph / 191.27 mph
0 – 60 mph	~4.3 seconds
0 – 100 mph	~10.6 seconds
0 – 100 kph	~4.7 seconds
fuel econ epa	13.84 L/100 km or 17 mpg-us
city fuel econ epa	16.80 L/100 km or 14 mpg-us
hwy fuel econ epa	9.80 L/100 km or 24 mpg-us
urban fuel econ eu	15.8 L/100 km or 14.89 mpg-us
extra urban fuel econ eu	8 L/100 km or 29.40 mpg-us
combined fuel econ eu	10.9 L/100 km or 21.58 mpg-us
emission	254 g/km
fuel capacity	90 litres or 23.76 gal.