Bentley's Unstoppable New Continental GT Speed Sets Underwater Speed Record!
The automotive world is never short of exciting developments, but Bentley's latest stunt has left enthusiasts and analysts in awe. Introducing the new Bentley Continental GT Speed - a car that is redefining speed and luxury in unexpected ways. With its public debut slated for the Goodwood Festival of Speed, this reimagined Grand Tourer is cruising into uncharted waters—quite literally.
Revolutionizing Performance
Let’s talk power. The new iteration of the Continental GT Speed is propelled by a muscular 4.0-liter V8 Plug-In Hybrid that outperforms the former W12. Churning out a staggering 771 horsepower and an impressive 738 lb-ft of torque, this beast catapults from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.1 seconds. Topping out at 208 mph, it's clear that performance is at the heart of this machine.
The Goodwood Festival will serve as the stage for both the coupé and the convertible versions, each putting on a spectacle for car aficionados. To commemorate Bentley's new underwater speed record, a special display promises to turn heads and drop jaws.
A Record-Breaking Underwater Feat
What sets the new Continental GT Speed apart isn’t just its incredible speed on land but also its record-breaking underwater performance. The vehicle achieved an astounding 208 mph in Norway's Ryfylke tunnel, a nine-mile-long underwater passage that plunges 958 feet below sea level. This isn’t just a speed record; it’s a statement, carried out using renewable biofuel and showcasing Bentley's commitment to sustainability.
Technical Marvels and Bold Statements
Setting this record was no walk in the park. Thirteen months of meticulous preparation led to this groundbreaking achievement. Bentley engineers used Computational Fluid Dynamics to anticipate and counteract the high aerodynamic drag, discovered to be 11% more intense in the confined space of the tunnel. The car had to maintain perfect centering to ensure optimal airflow and mitigate the risk of being pulled towards the tunnel walls by suction forces.
Equipped with a roll cage, bucket seat, but unchanged engine and suspension, the car was fitted with meticulously x-rayed 22-inch Pirelli tires to guarantee zero defects. Former British rally champ Mark Higgins piloted the vehicle to its astonishing 208 mph top speed, reaching it in just 33 seconds at 1:00 AM local time.
A Spectacular Display
To honor this incredible feat, Bentley will showcase a GT Speed in a unique display tank dubbed the 'FOShtank.' This is not just any tank but a modified version of Bentley's 'Toy Box' units, turned into a functional aquarium. Inside, you’ll find a Tourmaline Green-colored Continental GT Speed, displayed with 368.9 gallons of water and a selection of dazzling Shubunkin fish.
The acrylic sheets confining the water are 3.1 inches thick to ensure maximum safety. An aquarium specialist will be on hand to maintain the tank, ensuring the aquatic inhabitants remain healthy.
More to See at Goodwood
Bentley isn’t the only exciting attraction at this year's Goodwood Festival of Speed. The event will also feature the European debut of the Honda Prelude Concept, the all-electric Mini JCW, and the unique Pagani Huayra Epitome. Keep an eye out for Mad Mike’s rotary-powered McLaren drift car as well.
The Bentley Continental GT Speed isn’t just pushing boundaries; it’s obliterating them. As Bentley embarks on this new chapter of performance and innovation, the automotive world eagerly anticipates what will come next.