Bentley «

The 2009 Bentley Continental Flying Spur and Continental Flying Spur Speed will make their official international motor show debuts at ExCel (London) later this month.

“We are delighted that the next chapter of the Flying Spur success story will begin in our home market and at the British International Motor Show, notably as our British customers have played a key part in making this Bentley the most sought-after 12-cylinder luxury saloon in the world,” comments Stuart McCullough, Member of the Board for Sales and Marketing.

With its combination of exhilarating performance, luxury, craftsmanship and four-door practicality the 12-cylinder Continental Flying Spur has been at the forefront of Bentley’s revitalisation since its launch in 2005 and the range is now refined and expanded with two highly distinctive models.

The instantly recognisable style of the Flying Spur undergoes a subtle evolution with changes to the front and rear design. The new, more upright grille and bolder lower air intake accentuate the distinctive Bentley profile, while a new rear bumper delivers a sleeker and more aggressive appearance.

The 552bhp Continental Flying Spur offers enhanced levels of comfort and choice. A comprehensive range of noise-absorbent measures including acoustic glazing ensure that cabin refinement, already a hallmark of the Continental Flying Spur, is best in class.

Bentley’s famous commitment to the highest quality of craftsmanship and customer personalisation is highlighted with an enhanced choice of beautifully crafted marquetry and chrome inlays. In addition, seat piping, a traditional Bentley feature, has also been introduced with two new hide colors.

Joining the Continental Flying Spur in London is the 600bhp Flying Spur Speed which unleashes the potent performance and intense levels of driver engagement of its highly acclaimed stablemate, the Continental GT Speed.

Inspired by Bentley’s legendary ‘Speed’ models that first appeared in 1923, the Flying Spur Speed offers a range of headline performance figures including a 0-60mph sprint time of 4.5 seconds and a top speed of 200mph.

The Flying Spur Speed is distinguished by unique design cues which underline its performance credentials, including dark-tinted radiator and air intake grilles, wider rifled exhaust tail pipes and unique 20-inch multi-spoke alloys.

Both Continental Flying Spur models can now be specified with Bentley Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC). The ACC uses a long-range radar sensor, mounted in the lower front grille, to monitor the road ahead for other vehicles. When a slower moving vehicle is detected, the system automatically adjusts braking and acceleration to maintain a ‘time gap’, as selected by the driver.

The ‘time gap’ also controls the vehicle dynamic response. The larger the time gap the more relaxed the acceleration and braking, allowing the driver to tune the ACC system to suit their preferred driving style or to the prevailing traffic conditions.

Bentley Motors will also highlight its unique partnership with the renowned British hi-fi manufacturer, Naim. Designed exclusively for Bentley and available as a further option for both the Continental Flying Spur and Flying Spur Speed, the Naim system features an 1100 Watt amplifier (the most powerful in a production car) and 15 custom-built speakers. A next-generation Digital Signal Processor further enhances the listening experience. The Naim system will also be available on all Bentley models from August 2008 onwards.

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The ‘Black Edition’ has an eight-piece body consisting of a three piece rear valance, two side skirts, a two piece front valance and a rear boot spoiler. This kit has been developed by our Project Kahn design team and has undergone many hours of testing not only to ensure safety but also to ensure that a perfect fit is achieved for each car.

The ‘Black Edition’ package contains a full interior styling programme which includes a bespoke Project Kahn Luxury Leather upgrade and high gloss piano black interior fascia panels with the optional extras of either a high gloss piano black steering or a carbon fibre finish steering wheel. Each car comes with privacy tinted glass perfectly matched to compliment the cars exterior.

To complete the ‘low to the road’ aggressive stance the ‘black edition’ is fitted with a Project Kahn electronic lowering module. As standard the suspension is lowered by 20mm but this can be adjusted according to the customers’ requirements.

Each ‘Black Edition’ is fitted with the Project Kahn GTS sports exhaust system which provides a slight increase in performance whilst accelerating but more importantly emits a unique sound emanating from the car as a deep rumble.

However the most unique feature of the ‘Black Edition’ is the addition of the new ‘Silver Mist’ alloy wheel.

Silver Mist

As the UK’s leading automotive design house, Project Kahn recognises the importance of dynamic cutting edge designs whilst staying true to the original form.

Bentley owners can now testify to the exuberance of passion and sumptuous beauty of Afzal Kahn’s designs. Our new Silver Mist alloy wheel enhances the elegant curves of the Bentley while embracing the vehicle’s distinct style.

Embellished with a unique geometrical pattern – the Silver Mist wheel has been designed with the American market in mind.

Our elegant and sculpted alloy wheel designs are evolved through skilled artistic innovation, state-of-the art manufacturing and materials technology and the Silver Mist wheel is just the latest of many innovations from the Kahn Laboratories.

The New Silver Mist wheel has a 9.5×22” fitment all round with a ‘wide track look on the rear to provide a more sporty and aggressive feel.

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THE NEW CONTINENTAL FLYING SPUR RANGE

The 2009 range builds on the success of Bentley’s class-leading Continental Flying Spur.
The new Continental Flying Spur range is refined and expanded with two distinctive models.
The 2009 Continental Flying Spur offers enhanced levels of refinement, comfort and choice.
The new Continental Flying Spur Speed delivers a more powerful and engaging Bentley driving experience.

INTRODUCTION

The new Bentley Continental Flying Spur is set to deliver even greater levels of refinement, comfort and opportunities for customer personalisation. The class-leading 12-cylinder luxury saloon will also be joined by the 600 bhp (610PS) Continental Flying Spur Speed. The most powerful 4-door car ever produced by the British manufacturer, the Flying Spur Speed offers the pure driving experience and uncompromising performance synonymous with all Bentleys bearing the Speed legend.

The Continental Flying Spur has been an extraordinary success story for Bentley since its launch in 2005. Its unrivalled combination of exciting performance, luxury, craftsmanship, style and four-door practicality has broadened the appeal of the Continental range. The Flying Spur has become the most successful 12-cylinder luxury saloon in the world and has played a pivotal role in the revitalisation of Bentley.

The instantly recognisable style of the Flying Spur undergoes a subtle evolution with changes to the front and rear design. The new, more upright grille and bolder lower air intake accentuate the distinctive Bentley profile, while the new rear bumper delivers a more aggressive and sleek appearance.

A comprehensive range of noise-absorbent measures including acoustic glazing, tri-laminate body undertrays and wheelarch liners ensure that cabin refinement, already a hallmark of the Continental Flying Spur, is best in class.

The new Flying Spur may now be specified with a sophisticated follow-to-stop, radar-based Adaptive Cruise Control system, which monitors traffic ahead and manages the throttle and brakes to maintain a pre-set time gap, up to a driver selected set speed.

As a further option, the new Naim for Bentley audio system provides the world’s best in-car sound stage. Designed exclusively for Bentley by Naim, the renowned British hi-fi manufacturer, the system features an 1100 Watt amplifier, the most powerful unit offered in a production car, and 15 custom-built Naim speakers, including dual Naim sub-woofers. The next-generation Digital Signal Processor further enhances the listening experience.

The aluminium-intensive suspension of the Flying Spur features revised spring and dampers and a new bespoke 19-inch Pirelli UHP tire for outstanding levels of ride quality, comfort and refinement.

Bentley’s commitment to the highest quality of craftsmanship and customer personalisation is highlighted with an enhanced choice of beautifully crafted wood marquetry and chrome inlays. In addition, seat piping, a traditional Bentley feature, is introduced on Flying Spur together with two new hide colors. Three new colors and four duo-tone paint combinations are added to the exterior paint palette.

The 600bhp Continental Flying Spur Speed unleashes the same potent performance and intense levels of driver engagement as its highly acclaimed stablemate, the Continental GT Speed.

Inspired by Bentley’s legendary ‘Speed’ models that first appeared in 1923, the Flying Spur Speed offers a range of headline performance figures including a 0-60mph sprint time of 4.5 seconds and a top speed of 200mph.

A lowered ride height, uprated and redesigned suspension as well as retuned steering deliver outstanding agility and body control. Exceptional grip comes from the unique 9.5Jx20 multi-spoke alloy wheels with bespoke Pirelli P-Zero UHP performance tires.

The Flying Spur Speed is distinguished by subtle design cues which emphasise its performance credentials, including dark-tinted radiator and air intake grilles, wider rifled exhaust tail pipes and unique 20-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels.

Bentley Chairman and Chief Executive, Dr Franz-Josef Paefgen explains the rationale behind the new range:

“The global success of the Continental Flying Spur has created a new generation of Bentley owners. Responding to their feedback, we have refined an already remarkable car and with the debut of the Flying Spur Speed we are extending its appeal.”

CONTINENTAL FLYING SPUR RANGE – NEWS IN BRIEF CONTINENTAL FLYING SPUR

Styling evolution

- New front end design with:
More upright front grille with bright chrome matrix.
Larger, lower air intakes.
Chromed headlamp bezels.
Optional bright chrome matrix lower grille.
- New, more slender rear bumper design with:
Wraparound brightware and black valance.
Bright tail lamp bezels.

- Best-in-class cabin refinement

Acoustic glass to side and rear windows.
New acoustic tri-laminate undertray and wheelarch liners.
Retuned exhaust system.

Enhanced driving dynamics

The aluminum-intensive suspension features revised spring, anti-roll bar and damper settings and a new bespoke 19-inch Pirelli UHP tire, for outstanding levels of ride quality, comfort, response and refinement.
New design 19-inch 5-spoke alloy wheels.
Retuned Servotronic power steering for improved feedback and feel.
New ‘Sport Traction’ mode from ESP 8.1 system offers superb traction without being intrusive.

Optional fade-resistant carbon ceramic brakes provide improved brake feel (only available on 20-inch wheels).
Discs last lifetime of car and pad life doubled (in normal driving conditions).
New, follow-to-stop precision radar-based Adaptive Cruise Control with five time-gap settings.
Power output of the twin turbo 6.0 liter W12 engine remains at 552bhp (560PS/412kW).
Top speed of 195mph (312km/h) and 0-60mph in 4.9 seconds (0-100km/h in 5.2s).

Enhanced cabin comfort and customer convenience

New optional exclusive Naim for Bentley audio system with 1100 Watt amplifier provides the world’s best in-car sound stage.
New optional glovebox-located iPod, MP3 & USB interface connects personal music to the in-car infotainment system.
Multi-layer seat construction for enhanced comfort.
New optional full width rear seat with electrically adjustable outboard positions and fixed central seat.
Park distance control system with new graphics on infotainment screen.
Aluminum foot pedals incorporating the “B” Bentley logo.

Improved personalisation and bespoke choice

- Enhanced choice of handcrafted interior and exterior finishes include:
Contemporary style marquetry with crossbanding to door waistrails (Walnut & Chestnut veneers only).
Traditional style marquetry with crossbanding and inlay to fascia, door waistrails and uppercentre console (Walnut & Chestnut veneers only).
New chrome inlay strip to door waistrails.
New two tone interior hide color options providing greater opportunities for personalisation.
Two new interior hide colors, Linen and Imperial Blue.
Seat piping now available in 16 colors to allow customer to match secondary hide or single tone interior.

Three new standard exterior paint colors (Havana, White Sand and Onyx) along with four unique duo-tone paint combinations (Havana, Dark Sapphire, Onyx and Midnight Emerald) for the first time on the Continental family.

THE NEW CONTINENTAL FLYING SPUR SPEED

The new Flying Spur Speed shares the enhancements of the Continental Flying Spur model above with the following additions taken from the acclaimed GT Speed:

- A more powerful 600bhp (610PS/449kW) version of Bentley’s highly acclaimed W12 with 553 lbft (750 Nm) of torque.
A 9% increase in power and 15% increase in torque.

Maximum torque constant from 1750 rev/min.
- More engaging Bentley driving experience through uprated chassis:

10mm lowered ride height, uprated spring/damper settings and uprated anti-roll bars for improved agility and body control.

Exceptional roadholding thanks to superior grip from unique 9.5Jx20 multi-spoke alloy wheels with bespoke Pirelli P-Zero performance tires.

Improved steering response achieved through retuned speed-sensitive Servotronic system, solid-mounted front subframe and stiffer rear bushings.

‘Dynamic’ mode introduced on the uprated Bosch 8.1 ESP system with more progressive intervention to cater for the more spirited driver. – 0-60mph in 4.5 secs (0-100km/h in 4.8s) and a top speed of 200mph (322km/h).

Unique Speed model styling cues:

Front grille and lower air intakes in dark-tinted chrome matrix.

Bright chrome grilles available as a no cost option.

Wider rifled sports exhaust tail pipes.

‘Speed’ treadplates to all four doors.

3-spoke Sport leather steering wheel.

Optional bright or dark tint aluminum fascia panel.

Drilled alloy sport foot-pedals, knurled chrome/hide gearlever.

Diamond quilted hide to seat facings and door panels.

THE NEW 2009 CONTINENTAL FLYING SPUR

With typical Bentley understatement the styling of the new Continental Flying Spur is both evolutionary and subtly effective. At the front, the new bright chrome radiator grille, now more vertical, has a more pronounced square edge, accentuating the distinctive Bentley profile.

Beneath the grille, the new lower bumper features a wider, bolder central air intake. The black matrix grille also provides a 14 percent increase in airflow for the more powerful Speed version and the charge cooler intakes are positioned on the corners.

The lower grilles may also be specified in bright chrome to complement that of the main radiator. Chromed bezels around the headlamps complement the new frontal design.

At the rear, the new bumper with black lower valance and wraparound chrome trims make for a more slender appearance that is complemented by new chromed tail lamp bezels. Director of Design, Dirk van Braeckel explains the styling evolution:

“The Flying Spur is instantly recognisable on the road and we were keen to retain its individuality. The subtle styling changes have given the car a fresh look at the front and sleeker, more balanced appearance at the rear.”

Enhanced cabin refinement

Since its launch in 2005, the Continental Flying Spur model has achieved a well-deserved reputation for outstanding cabin refinement. For the new model range, the Bentley engineering team were tasked to build on this success and create a unique cabin ambience with best in class refinement and comfort.

Key to that improvement is a comprehensive package of enhancements to the Flying Spur’s already impressive acoustic suppression technology. The complex double-glazed windows, a standard feature since launch, now feature a sophisticated acoustic laminate inner layer for all side and rear windows. In addition, new tri-laminate acoustic underbody trays and wheel arch liners absorb road noise.

A redesigned exhaust system provides greater refinement while maintaining the sporty, baritone character of the exhaust note. Overall, these changes deliver a substantial improvement in cabin refinement. Bentley’s Head of Body and Trim Engineering, Peter Guest, explains the effect of this acoustic management:

“We are immensely proud that the cabin refinement of the new Flying Spur is best-in-class. While achieving superb levels of noise insulation, the sporting character and sense of connection with the road is undiminished.”

Enhanced driving dynamics and ride comfort

At the heart of the Continental Flying Spur is Bentley’s 6-litre, twin turbocharged W12 engine, the most compact 12-cylinder engine in production. The 48-valve head employs four camshafts and continually variable valve timing. Power is transmitted via an uprated ZF six-speed automatic transmission.

The W12 engine continues to produce 552bhp (560PS/412kW) at 6100 rev/min and a maximum torque of 650Nm (479lb ft) from 1600 rev/min across virtually the entire rev range.

In common with all Continental models, the Flying Spur employs a complex four-link suspension at the front and a trapezoidal multi-link system at the rear.

Much of the suspension is made from lightweight aluminum, benefiting steering feel and rolling comfort. Self-levelling air springs are standard, constantly monitoring and adjusting the ride height and damping according to road conditions.

Outstanding levels of ride quality and comfort were the target for the new Continental Flying Spur and to achieve this, Bentley engineers have recalibrated both spring and damper settings and introduced a new bespoke 19-inch Pirelli P-Zero UHP tire.

Using the same technology as the 20-inch performance tire introduced on the 2008 Continental GT Speed, the 19-inch version is specially developed to optimise ride comfort and noise suppression, while providing outstanding grip and agility.

The hydraulics of the speed-sensitive Servotronic rack and pinion steering system have been retuned to reduce friction and improve steering feel and driver feedback.

The uprated advanced electronic stability control (ESP) 8.1 system has a new ‘Sport Traction’ mode that moderates ESP intervention at low speeds whilst providing a greater degree of driver interaction and control, offering superb traction without being intrusive.

Both Flying Spur models can now be specified with Bentley Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC).

As with conventional cruise control, ACC will maintain, within close limits, a ‘set speed’ as selected by the driver. In addition, ACC uses a long-range radar sensor, mounted in the lower front grille, to monitor the road ahead for other vehicles. When a slower moving vehicle is detected, the system automatically adjusts braking and acceleration to maintain a ‘time gap’, as selected by the driver.

The ‘time gap’ also controls the vehicle dynamic response. The larger the time gap the more relaxed the acceleration and braking, allowing the driver to tune the ACC system to suit their own driving style and traffic conditions.

All Flying Spur models are equipped with the largest brakes of any production passenger car on sale today, with 405mm x 36mm ventilated front discs and 335mm x 22mm rears.

Bentley’s carbon/silicon carbide brakes (CCB) are offered for the first time as an option on Continental Flying Spur. With even larger 20mm x 40mm cross-drilled front discs and 356mm x 28mm rears, with eight-piston callipers, they may only be specified with 20-inch alloy wheels.

The lightweight, fade-resistant braking system minimises disc distortion under high thermal conditions. Under normal driving conditions the brake discs will last the lifetime of the car and brake pad life is doubled compared with the standard system. A 20kg reduction in rotating and unsprung mass also benefits steering response and handling.

Brian Gush, Director, Chassis and Powertrain Engineering, comments:

“True to the Bentley tradition, the Flying Spur delivers effortless power while significant advancements in ride quality and comfort further emphasise its deserved reputation for world-class luxury. The new Speed model exemplifies our passion for creating cars that deliver truly exceptional performance and driving enjoyment.”

Enhanced cabin comfort and customer convenience

The 2009 Continental Flying Spur is the first model to feature the new Naim for Bentley audio system to create the world’s best in-car sound stage.

Designed exclusively for Bentley by Naim, the renowned British hi-fi manufacturer, it features an 1100 Watt amplifier – the world’s most powerful production unit fitted in a car – and 15 speakers. The speaker drive units are specifically tailored by Naim to the cabin of each model in the Bentley range to provide a unique and personalised audio experience.

Bentley is also the first car manufacturer to use a next-generation Digital Signal Processor (DSP) in its audio system, enhancing the listening experience still further.

All cars are now fitted as standard with a handset allowing rear passengers to control the main infotainment system.

A new optional iPod, MP3 and USB interface is located in the glovebox, enabling customers to connect personal music to the in-car infotainment system. When an iPod is connected, the tracks are displayed on the infotainment screen.

This perfectly complements the optional rear seat entertainment package that comprises two headrest-mounted 7-inch LCD screens, a 6-DVD multi-changer and two sets of headphones. An enhanced remote control unit now incorporates the rear seat entertainment systems.

A further driver convenience feature is introduced for the park/distance control. The new graphics readout on the console-mounted infotainment screen complements the audible signal.

All new Flying Spur models also benefit from significant developments to the cabin interior. The seating of all new models is extensively redesigned, with a multi-layer seat construction the comfort of which is optimised using different materials.

Employing the latest body profiling databases, the seats are constructed to offer the optimum shape for front and rear seat occupants. In addition, the rear seat cushions are lengthened by 40mm for additional comfort and support.

For the first time on Flying Spur, customers specifying a five-seat configuration may now opt for a rear-seat configuration with fully adjustable outboard positions and a fixed central seat. The outer seats have full lumbar adjustment together with heating and massage functions and a facility to adjust the position of an unoccupied front passenger seat for even greater legroom. Seat ventilation is available as an optional extra.

Improved personalisation and bespoke choice

Already renowned for its unrivalled standard of interior craftsmanship, the cabin of the Continental Flying Spur is now even more luxurious, offering unparalleled opportunities for personalisation in this segment of the market. This follows an extensive development program that marries the latest production technology with the skills of Bentley’s craftsmen and women at its factory in Crewe, England.

Continental Flying Spur customers may now choose from an array of beautifully crafted inlays. These include chrome inlays to door waistrails and a choice of intricate marquetry wood inlays in contemporary and traditional designs, creating a unique and personalised appearance.

The contemporary style inlays comprise crossbanding to the door waistrails while the traditional style inlays feature crossbanding and inlay to fascia, door waistrails and upper center console. Both are available for Walnut and Chestnut veneers.

To further enhance the interior specification, seat piping is now available as a cost option and can be ordered in a contrast or non-contrast condition from the full color palette of interior hides.

In addition, a new approach to the interior hide color combinations provides customers with greater opportunities for personalisation. The door waistrails and lower door panels may now be matched to secondary hide while the center door pads and armrests remain matched to the main hide color creating a new two-tone effect.

Additions to the 2009 Flying Spur palette include two new hide colors (Linen and Imperial Blue) as well as three new standard exterior paint colors (Havana, White Sand and Onyx). Four unique duo-tone paint combinations (Havana, Dark Sapphire, Onyx and Midnight Emerald) are available for the first time on the Continental family.

THE NEW CONTINENTAL FLYING SPUR SPEED

Following the highly successful introduction of the Continental GT Speed coupe in 2007, Bentley – almost half of new Continental GTs now sold are Speed versions – Bentley now offers the 600bhp (610PS) W12 powertrain in the new Continental Flying Spur Speed to deliver a more powerful and engaging Bentley driving experience.

The Speed engine develops 15 percent more torque and nine percent more power than the standard Flying Spur, while engine efficiency is optimised by the use of lower friction, lighter-weight components and a new engine management system. The resultant performance is exceptional, with a top speed of 200mph (322km/h), a zero to 60mph sprint time of just 4.5 seconds (0-100km/h in 4.8s) and effortless overtaking capability.

The most powerful four-door Bentley ever made, the Flying Spur Speed blends understated design cues to distinguish it from the Flying Spur. Its front grille and lower air intakes are dark-tinted chrome, while at the rear wider rifled sports exhaust tailpipes hint at the potential of the Speed model.

New 20-inch multi-spoke wheels available in both bright silver or darkened tungsten carry bespoke Pirelli PZero performance tires introduced on the GT Speed model, which provide the car with superb grip and feedback.

The Speed’s sporting performance is complemented by a highly capable chassis. Tauter handling and greater steering response with sharper turn-in and improved driver feedback is achieved through a retuned Servotronic steering system, direct-mounted front subframe and stiffer bushings.

Improved agility and body control is also achieved through uprated spring and damper settings as well as thicker anti-roll bars front and rear. To aid the car’s high-speed dynamics, the Flying Spur Speed’s self-levelling air suspension sits 10mm lower.

The advanced electronic stability program (ESP), uprated to ESP 8.1 for both models, provides a greater degree of driver interaction and control.

The Flying Spur Speed offers a new ‘Dynamic Mode’ that allows increased wheel slip at higher speeds. Torque is reinstated more quickly after the traction control system is triggered, giving the spirited driver a greater sense of control and the ability to exploit the full potential of the new engine.

Dr Ulrich Eichhorn, Member of the Board Engineering, comments:

“The new Flying Spur advances its Bentley performance credentials while delivering outstanding refinement and comfort through our unique application of advanced technology and traditional craftsmanship.

“With 600 bhp and a sports-tuned chassis, the Flying Spur Speed redefines customer expectations of a large, four-door luxury saloon. The performance, handling and agility set new benchmarks.”

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

MODEL TYPE Four-door

ENGINE
Type 12-cylinder, 6-litre twin-turbocharged engine
Installation Front, longitudinal, all-wheel drive
Construction Alloy heads and block
Bore/stroke 84 x 90.2mm
Capacity 5998cc
Compression ratio 9.0:1
Valve gear Chain-driven DOHC per bank, 4 valves per cylinder, cam phased inlet and outlet
Power Flying Spur: 552bhp/560PS/412kW @ 6100rev/min
Flying Spur Speed: 600bhp/610PS/449kW @ 6000rev/min
Torque Flying Spur: 479lb ft/650Nm @1600rev/min
Flying Spur Speed: 553lb ft/750Nm @ 1750rev/min
Fuel 98 (95) RON

TRANSMISSION
Type Continuous all-wheel drive
Gearbox ZF 6-speed automatic
Ratios 1st: 4.17
2nd: 2.34
3rd: 1.52
4th: 1.14
5th: 0.87
6th: 0.69
Final drive: 3.526

PERFORMANCE
Top speed Flying Spur: 195mph (312km/h)
Flying Spur Speed: 200mph (322km/h)

0-60mph (0-100km/h) Flying Spur: 4.9 seconds (5.2 seconds)
Flying Spur Speed: 4.5 seconds (4.8 seconds)

0-100mph (0-160km/h) Flying Spur: 11.3 seconds (11.3 seconds)
Flying Spur Speed: 10.5 seconds (10.4 seconds)

50-70mph (80-120km/h) Flying Spur: 2.6 seconds (3.3 seconds)
Flying Spur Speed: 2.4 seconds (3.1 seconds)

SUSPENSION
Front Complex multi-link, computer-controlled self-levelling air suspension, anti-roll bar
Rear Trapezoidal multi-link, computer-controlled self-levelling air suspension, anti-roll bar

STEERING
Type Rack & pinion, power-assisted, speed-sensitive
Turns lock to lock 2.7
Turning circle (kerb to kerb) 11.8m (38.7 ft)

BRAKES
Front 405mm ventilated discs (optional 420mm carbon/ silicon carbide, cross-drilled discs)
Rear 335mm ventilated discs (optional 356mm carbon/ silicon carbide, cross-drilled discs)
Anti lock Standard with Electronic Stability Programme (ESP)

BODY & CHASSIS
Construction Steel monocoque
Length 5290mm (208.26in)
Width (inc. mirrors) 2118mm (83.39in)
Weight 2475kg (5456lb)
Height Flying Spur: 1475mm (58.1in)
Flying Spur Speed: 1465mm (57.7in)
Wheelbase 3065mm (120.67in)
Front track 1623mm (63.9in)
Rear track 1607mm (63.27in)
Wheels Flying Spur: 9.0J 19-inch Alloy (optional 9.0J 20-inch Alloy)
Flying Spur Speed: 9.5J 20-inch Alloy
Tyres (bespoke) Flying Spur: 275/40×19 bespoke Pirelli P Zero (optional 275/35×20)
Flying Spur Speed: 275/35×20 Pirelli P-Zero
Tire pressure monitoring standard
Luggage volume 475 litres (16.7 cu.ft./ 0.47m3)
Fuel tank capacity 90 litres (19.8 gallons/23.8 US gallons)

INTERIOR DIMENSIONS
Front legroom 1054mm (41.5in)
Rear legroom 980mm (38.58in)

FUEL CONSUMPTION/EMISSIONS
Fuel consumption Urban: 11.2mpg (25.3 litres/100km)
Extra Urban: 24.3mpg (11.6 litres/100km)
Combined: 17.0mpg (16.6 litres/100km)
Carbon dioxide emissions 396g/km
Emission controls EU 1V and US LEV II
EPA Drive Cycle City Driving: 10.0mpg (US)
Highway Driving: 17.0mpg (US)

CONTINENTAL FLYING SPUR STANDARD FEATURE SPECIFICATIONS INCLUDE:

EXTERIOR FEATURES Bright chromed grille
Black lower grille
Twin Bi-Xenon headlamps with chrome surrounds
Twin oval stainless steel tail pipes
Keyless entry and ignition
Power latching to all doors
Rain sensing wipers
Electronic tire monitoring system
Choice of 16 standard exterior colors

INTERIOR FEATURES Burr Walnut to fascia, front & rear console and door waistrails
Choice of 17 standard interior hide colors
Single tone, 4-spoke hide-trimmed multi-function steering wheel
Hide and chrome trimmed gear lever with manual shift change facility
Four-zone electronic climate control
Electronically adjustable front seats with memory and heat settings
Integrated Bluetooth phone system with remote SIM access profile (rSAP)
Telephone voice dialing
Infotainment system with DVD Satellite Navigation and hi-fi system with remote control and 6 CD changer
Breitling clock
Steering column-mounted gear shift paddles
Engine stop/start button
Electronic cruise control
Footpedal with Bentley ‘B’ emblem

CONTINENTAL FLYING SPUR SPEED FEATURE SPECIFICATIONS INCLUDE:

EXTERIOR FEATURES Dark chromed radiator and lower grille
Sports tuned exhaust with twin rifled oval stainless steel sports tail pipes
Lowered sports suspension (10mm front & rear)
Painted black finish to engine cover
20 x 9.5J wheels with bespoke performance tyres

INTERIOR FEATURES Unique treadplates bearing ‘Speed’ name
Diamond quilted hide to seat facings and doors
Embroidered Bentley emblem to head rests
Indented hide headlining
Single-tone, 3-spoke hide-trimmed multi-function
Sports design steering wheel with silver switch surround
Sporting gear lever finished in knurled chrome and hide
Drilled alloy sport foot-pedals

A SELECTION OF OPTIONS AVAILABLE SEPARATELY:

Naim for Bentley Premium Audio System
iPod/ MP3/USB interface
Traditional style cross banding and inlay to fascia, door waistrails and upper centre console (Walnut and Chestnut veneers only)
Contemporary style cross banding to door waistrails (Walnut and Chestnut veneers only)
Chrome inlays to waistrails
Choice of upgraded veneers
Fascia panels available in bright or dark tint* aluminium
Fascia panels, header and centre console in bright or dark tint aluminium*
Rear seat configuration with fully adjustable outboard positions and a fixed central seat
Seat piping to front and rear seats in 17 colors
4-spoke wood and hide-trimmed multi-function steering wheel
Exterior paint match service to customer specification
Exterior paint colour from Arnage range

*Available on Continental Flying Spur Speed only

THE MULLINER DRIVING SPECIFICATION
(OPTIONAL ON CONTINENTAL FLYING SPUR ONLY)
INCLUDES:
Choice of veneers – Burr Walnut, Dark Stained Burr Walnut, Piano Black (additional veneers available at extra cost)
Drilled alloy sport foot-pedals
Sporting gear lever finished in knurled chrome and hide
Diamond quilted hide to seat facings and door panels
Embroidered Bentley emblem to headrests
Indented hide headlining
20’’ 7-spoke 2-piece alloy sports wheels

2008 Bentley Greenpower Continental DC In Detail
2008 Bentley Continental GT Widebody by Premier4509
Project Kahn Tuned 2008 Bentley Continental GT-S

A Bentley Motors apprentice team has won a special “Spirit of Greenpower” award for its performance in the Greenpower Corporate Challenge which took place at Goodwood race circuit yesterday. The Bentley apprentice team designed, engineered and built the electric powered car which they entered into the Greenpower Challenge as well as a season of “F24+” racing. The Bentley Greenpower car is called Continental DC (Direct Current) and runs off a 24-volt motor supplied by two 12-volt batteries. Designed for lightness and maximum power efficiency the one-seater Continental DC has a carbon fibre chassis and low resistance tyres. Greenpower is a series of events which aims to promote greater interest in young people to follow careers in the fields of engineering and technology. The 2008 Greenpower corporate challenge held yesterday was the first race of the season. 25 teams entered, comprising 15 school entries and 10 company teams. The Bentley team achieved their goal of completing the four hour race, despite some technical difficulties in the first section. The award was given in recognition of their excellent team spirit which they showed in overcoming these initial technical challenges. The F24+ season consists of eight 90-minute endurance race events which will culminate in a grand final at Goodwood in October. Race tracks on the F24+ schedule include Dunsfold, Rockingham, Croft and Aintree.

The Bentley Motors team is composed of nine of the company’s apprentices who are all following a three or four year apprenticeship scheme at the factory in Crewe. Margaret Cheshire, Head of People and Organisational Development at Bentley Motors said, “It’s fantastic that the apprentices are not only gaining the technical skills associated with building a car but are also increasing their knowledge of other areas of the business such as finance, purchasing and public relations.” She continued, “It’s all about giving the individuals knowledge and expertise to be successful in their future careers after the completion of the Bentley apprenticeship programme.”

Having taken the initiative themselves to compete in the Greenpower challenge the apprentices have devoted weekends and evenings for the past ten months taking full responsibility for all aspects of the car’s development. Three team members acted as drivers on race day, the rest of the team provided essential back-up support in the pits.

Tom Hodgson, Greenpower team manager added, “In building the car we pooled the expertise and resources from across the business to produce a project of which we’re all proud. Having completed our first race we now know what we have to do to be successful for the rest of the 2008 Greenpower season. The experience of developing a project from idea to race-day was exhilarating. It was also hugely satisfying to see the positive support from sponsors keen to help the Bentley team”.

Technical highlights of the Bentley Greenpower car

- Its 24v Motor delivers 0.5bhp and 5.1 lb ft (7Nm):
- Top speed of 40mph (64km/h).
- Zero CO2 emissions.
- Chassis & design:
- Fixed carbon fibre suspension wishbones for maximum strength and minimum weight.
- Excellent roadholding and superior grip from unique 1×16” carbon fibre wheels with bespoke Michelin low resistance tyres.
- Rear grille matrix in chrome finish.
- Bentley Hide/Alcantara trimmed interior
- Specially built ECU to control motor/transmission

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

MODEL TYPE
Single Seater

Power
Type 24v Wheelchair motor (Regulation)
Installation Transversely mounted, One-wheel drive
Power 240 Watt
Torque 7 Nm
Fuel Source 2 x 12 v Lead Acid Batterys

TRANSMISSION
Type Continuous one-wheel drive
Gearbox Nuvinci CVP
Ratios Infinitely variable between 0.5 under and 1.75 overdrive

PERFORMANCE
Top speed 40mph (64km/h).

SUSPENSION
Front Single wishbone rigid suspension
Rear Single wishbone rigid suspension

STEERING
Type Rack & pinion,
Turns lock to lock 1
Turning circle (kerb to kerb) 19.2m

BRAKES
Rear 160mm ventilated disc (to single wheel)
Anti lock In development!

BODY & CHASSIS
Construction Carbon Fibre monocoque
Length 1420mm
Width (inc. mirrors) 1000mm (82.76in)
Weight 120 Kg
Height 500mm
Wheelbase 1300mm
Front track 1000mm
Rear track 1000mm
Wheels Custom made 16” carbon fibre

Tyres Michelin Eco-Marathon specials

FUEL CONSUMPTION/EMISSIONS
Fuel consumption 2 hours per battery set
Carbon dioxide emissions 0g/km

CONTINENTAL GT FEATURE SPECIFICATIONS

EXTERIOR FEATURES Bright chromed grille
Bentley Wheel Badge

INTERIOR FEATURES Trimmed Steering wheel, Seat and dashboard, Touch screen driver information panel in development

ASI Corp. was established in Nagoya, Japan in December 2007, and is now aggressively developing a variety of tuning solutions for Bentley automobiles. We made our world debut at the 2007 SEMA Show, and since then have received excellent reviews and inquiries from all over the world.

Accuracy, Spirit, Imagination. That is what ASI stands for, and it is our goal to produce tuning solutions that are unequalled in each of these qualities. To ensure the highest level of quality, all ASI parts are entirely Made-in-Japan.

The GT Speed images feature our standard GT body kit, with the addition of a dry carbon bonnet and trunk + rear wing, and also our original 3-piece forged wheel.

Premier4509™ announces a limited edition wide body aero kit for the Bentley Continental GT. This design is being released in conjunction with the Premier4509 Lamborghini Murcielago kit. The Bentley wide body set will be limited to 100 kits world wide. Included with each kit is a numbered serial plate.

These individual hand made parts will be constructed of a strong yet lightweight carbon fiber/FRP mix. The package will consist of a front bumper, side skirts, rear bumper, front fenders and rear quarter panels that increase the car’s width by 4 inches. In addition, metalwork will be offered by way of a custom 4 piece bumper grill set along with new exhaust tips. Two wing variations will be offered for individuals to choose from.

Company president, Hironao Yokomaku spent many months developing this Bentley design. “The purpose of this design exercise was to enhance the cars aggressive nature while at the same time keeping a refined look that matched with the original body lines,” said Mr. Yokomaku. Ray Fong, vice president of Sales and Marketing said, “Since announcing the Murcielago kit we have recieved encouraging feed back from a number of distributors whom are eager to carry our product. Our aim is to offer a unique experience for our customers looking for quality parts with solid design. I think this kit really brings out the sporty look of the car.”

Premier4509™ is based in Tsukuba, Japan with offices in Paramount, California. Premier4509 is a brand developed and created by VeilSide, a Japanese automotive performance company that and specializes in automotive fashions that include aero design, engine parts and luxury wheels. The company owns two world records for racing as well as several design awards from the Tokyo Auto Salon.