Sure, a Bentley probably isn’t the first thing that comes to mind when shopping for a car with killer power. But if you want a classy ride with enough speed to tickle your subconscious deathwish, we’re guessing the new Bentley Continental GT V8 S will get things done just fine.
An uprated version of the existing Continental GT and GTC models, the luxury grand tourer brings more power, more agility and a style all its own. It comes in both coupe and convertible versions, so both straight-laced business types and dudes experiencing a midlife crisis can have their respective rides of choice.
The Bentley Continental GT V8 S uses the same twin-tubocharged V8 engine as the last-generation Continentals, but uptunes it to put out 521 horsepower and 502 pound-feet of torque. Mated to a flappy paddle XF 8-speed auto gearbox, it can hit top speeds of 192 and 191 mph for the coupe and convertible, respectively, along with 0 to 60 accelerations of 4.3 and 4.5 seconds. Other engine updates include low-friction bearings, an advanced thermal management system, energy recuperation using an electrical charging system, and a whole new distinctive “growl.”
Features include a four-link self-leveling front suspension, trapezoidal rear suspension with anti-roll bar, reworked Continuous Damping Control System and Electronic Stability Control, carbon silicon carbide brakes, 20-inch spoke wheels and a ZF servotronic steering system. Interior brings the same luxury and comfort we’ve come to expect from the automaker, including soft touch leather seats, deep-pile carpeting, and an advanced infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen display.
Deliveries for the Bentley Continental GT V8 S starts early 2014, with prices starting at £139,000.
