The first generation of the Bentley Flying Spur was a grand tourer that marked the brand's entry into the luxury sedan market. Launched in 2005 as a 2006 model, it was designed to be a more practical and spacious alternative to the Continental GT coupe.
Design and Features
The Flying Spur shared its platform with the Bentley Arnage, but featured a bespoke bodyshell with a longer wheelbase, increased interior space, and a more formal, sedan-like appearance. Its exterior design was characterized by a more subtle, elegant approach compared to the aggressive lines of the Continental GT. The interior offered an impressive array of luxury features, including handcrafted wood trim, leather upholstery, and chrome accents.
Powertrain
The Flying Spur was powered by a 6.0-liter twin-turbocharged W12 engine, producing 552 horsepower (412 kW) in its most powerful form. This engine provided the vehicle with exceptional performance capabilities, accelerating from 0 to 60 mph (97 km/h) in just 4.9 seconds and reaching a top speed of 200 mph (322 km/h). The engine was mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, offering comfortable and refined shifting.
Interior and Comfort
Inside, the Flying Spur featured luxurious seating for four passengers, with ample legroom and shoulder space due to its extended wheelbase. The cabin was designed to provide a serene driving environment, with subtle ambient lighting, sumptuous leather upholstery, and fine woods crafted by Bentley's skilled artisans. Advanced features included an 8-speaker audio system, rearview camera, and a navigation system.
Safety Features
The Flying Spur boasted comprehensive safety features as standard, including anti-lock braking, electronic stability control, driver and passenger airbags, and side curtain airbags to protect occupants in the event of a collision. Additionally, it featured active cruise control with automatic stop-and-go capability for enhanced comfort during long drives.
Dimensions and Capacity
- Length: 5,034 mm (198.6 in)
- Wheelbase: 3,115 mm (122.6 in)
- Width: 1,940 mm (76.4 in)
- Height: 1,456 mm (57.3 in)
- Curb weight: approximately 2,200 kg (4,850 lbs)
Availability and Discontinuation
The Bentley Flying Spur was produced from 2005 through 2013. In 2013, the model received a significant update with the introduction of the second generation, which brought significant improvements in powertrain technology and design refinement.
Specifications Overview
- Engine: 6.0-liter W12 twin turbocharged
- Horsepower: up to 552 hp (412 kW)
- Transmission: Six-speed automatic
- Top Speed: 200 mph (322 km/h)
- 0-60 mph Time: 4.9 seconds
The first generation Bentley Flying Spur represented a significant step for the brand into the luxury sedan market, with its spacious interior and powerful W12 engine making it an appealing choice for those seeking high-end comfort and performance.
