The Bentley Continental GT is a grand tourer produced by British luxury car manufacturer Bentley Motor Company. It was first introduced in 2003 as a 2004 model and was in production until 2011. The Generation 1 Continental GT marked the return of Bentley to the world of high-performance, luxurious coupes after a hiatus of several decades.
Design and Features
The Continental GT is based on a steel platform shared with the Volkswagen Phaeton. It features a sleek, curved body with gull-wing doors that swing upwards for easy access. The styling was created by Walter da Silva, Bentley's design director at the time, and is characterized by a long hood, short overhangs, and a flowing roofline.
The interior is lavishly appointed with premium leather upholstery, polished wood trim, and a range of high-end infotainment systems. Optional features include dual-zone climate control, an 11-speaker Naim audio system, and a rear-seat entertainment package.
Powertrain
The Continental GT was initially powered by a 6.0-liter W12 engine, which produced 552 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 505 lb-ft of torque at 3,250 rpm. This unit was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive.
In 2007, Bentley introduced the Continental Supersports edition, which boasted a revised version of the W12 engine producing 630 horsepower. Additionally, there were various trim levels available, including the GTZ Mulliner Limited Edition, which featured an upgraded interior and unique design elements.
Performance
The Continental GT accelerates from 0-60 mph in just 4.7 seconds, with a top speed electronically limited to 197 mph. The Supersports edition is even quicker, reaching 0-60 mph in 3.7 seconds and boasting a top speed of 204 mph.
Safety Features
The Continental GT features a comprehensive suite of safety systems, including anti-lock brakes (ABS), traction control, electronic stability control, six airbags, and side impact protection.
Rear-Wheel Drive Variant
In 2005, Bentley introduced the Continental GTC, a convertible variant with a folding metal roof. This model shares the same W12 engine as the GT but offers slightly reduced performance due to the added weight of the roof mechanism.
The Continental GT has been recognized for its luxury and performance credentials by various automotive publications, including Car & Driver, Motor Trend, and AutoWeek.
