Tuesday, August 6, 2013
2007 Bentley Continental GTC Preview
The true wonder of Bentley is that its cars have such impact despite borrowing liberally from VWs parts bin. The engine, transmission, all-wheel-drive system and electronics all have their roots in VW and Audi models, but Bentley has millionaires waiting in line for its cars because the cars look and feel like nothing else on the road.Engine
A twin-turbocharged 6.0-liter W12 engine with variable valve timing makes an impressive 552 horsepower at 6,100 rpm and a stunning 479 lb.-ft. of torque flowing from 1,600 rpm all the way up to 6,000 rpm. That trainload of torque is what makes the Bentley thunder from zero to 60 mph in 4.8 seconds, and the Continental GTC can achieve 190 mph with the top down, or 195 mph with the top uP.
Transmission
The six-speed automatic transmission and performance-tuned all-wheel-drive system transmit the engines massive power smoothly, and the adjustable air suspension smothered bumps and held the car flat and stable through fast curves.
The interior of the Continental GTC will be identical to that of the Continental GT coupe — except, judging from initial photos of the Continental GTC, it appears as if the rear seats are closer together to accommodate the retractable roof. The top stows completely out of view underneath a leather-lined cover and features a glass rear window with heating element.
The 2007 Bentley Continental GTC gets the same suspension design as the GT Coupe on which it is based, but the rear suspension is reworked to make room for the folded top while leaving space for a couple of golf bags and luggage.
SPECIFICATIONS
Engine: 6.0-liter DOHC 48-valve W12
Power: 552 horsepower at 6,100 r.p.m., 479 pound-feet of torque at 1,600 r.p.m.
Transmission: Six-speed automatic
Fuel economy: 11 m.p.g. city/18 m.p.g. highway
Wheelbase: 108.1 inches
Length: 189.1 inches
Width: 82.7 inches
Height: 55.0 inches
Curb weight: 5,500 pounds
Where assembled: Crewe, England
Comparative base prices (not including destination charges)
Aston Martin DB9 MDX: $174,900
Ferrari F430 convertible: $192,484
Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG: $185,000
Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder: $195,000
