Bentley Continental GT (2003)

Bentley Continental GT

Bentley Continental GT is a grand tourer coupé with two doors and a 2+2 seating arrangement released in 2003, replacing the previous Rolls-Royce-based Continental R and T.

The Continental GT has a 6 L W12 engine with twin turbochargers which develops 552 hp (411 kW) at 6100 RPM and 479 lb-ft (650 N-m) at 1600 RPM. Never before had a 12 cylinder engine been employed on a Bentley car. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes 4.7 seconds (0 to 100 km/h in 4.8 s), the top speed is 198 mph (312 km/h). It has all-wheel drive, the first Bentley to do so, and a six speed automatic transmission with steering wheel mounted gearshift paddles for instant override. The engine and air suspension are loosely based on owner Volkswagen's flagship car the Phaeton.

The Continental GT features the largest brake disc on any production car at 405 mm (16 in) in front. The rear disc measures 335 mm (13 in).

Controversy

Bentley has said the Continental GT is the fastest four-seated vehicle. This has often been disputed, since the 2 rear seats have a lack of real leg and head space.

Success

With a waiting list of 1 1/2 years it has proven to be a huge success for Bentley and Volkswagen. Depending on options it is priced around $170,000 (A$375,000). The Continental GT has also been popular among celebrities; Ben Affleck, Vince Carter is known to own one and Chris Tucker was infamously caught speeding in his.