Wednesday, August 26, 2009

History of Bentley: The Continental GT Series

By Ethan Melandri

Bentley's history is changing as a new chapter begins with the Continental GT. The GT was the first car to be produced by Volkswagen, when they took over ownership from Rolls Royce. This ended a 70 year relationship between Bentley and Rolls Royce.

Compared to the old, last of the line Bentleys like the Continental R and T, the new Continental GT was a massive leap forward in terms of styling, handling and construction. What made the new GT even more impressive was that despite the fact that it weighed over 2.3 tons, the Continental had the performance to match most modern supercars.

Zero to 60 was reached in just 4.7 seconds and it could go on to a top speed a shade under 200 mph. Even when it reached the corners the Bentley's advanced suspension system coped remarkably well at concealing the GT's huge bulk.

The Bentley GT's suspension utilises computer controlled air springs, which automatically firm up in the corners to reduce body roll, whilst inside the cockpit the driver could choose from a range of sport or comfort settings to tailor the handling to the road conditions or their driving style.

There are four seats in the GT. Unlike other 4 seat vehicles, this one can fit four adults with perfect comfort. The interior has leather and walnut wood presenting a beautiful combination. The modern technology inside the automobile includes cruise control, top of the line audio system, satellite navigation, and electric, heated, and massaging front seats.

Under the bonnet was the extremely powerful six litre W12 engine that could deliver 550 bhp and 650 Nm of torque from very low down in the rev range. Power was delivered to a sophisticated four wheel drive system via a six speed automatic gearbox, which incorporated finger tip mounted controls on the steering wheel.

The Continental Bentley GT remains the true shape of the auto brand, even with Volkswagen's modern updates. The body is still large, with xenon headlamps, and the typical mesh grille. It is certainly a 21st century vehicle with presence and physique.

The Continental GT definitely proves a new direction for Bentley. With Volkswagen offering their full range of amenities Bentley will remain top notch. Not so surprising is the fact that the secret of the VW Phaeton is in using the components and structure of Bentley. This was part of the deal when Volkswagen took over Bentley and decided to continue production. - 2368

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