The Continental GT heralded a new chapter in the history of Bentley, as it was the first car to be produced under the ownership of Volkswagen and marked the ending of a 70 year long association with 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.
Inside the Continental GT was a true four seater and, unlike other 2+2 designed cars, could easily carry four adults in exceptional comfort. The interior is a combination of fine leathers and exquisitely matched walnut woods. However all of the modern refinements are also present including satellite navigation, cruise control, high end audio system and even fully 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.
Despite all the advances in technology Volkswagen has made sure that the GT still retains the looks of a true Bentley, with its large imposing body, elliptical xenon headlights and un mistakable mesh grill. This is a Bentley for the 21st century and one that still has tremendous presence and stature.
There is no doubt that the Continental GT marks a new direction for Bentley, and one in which it can make full use of large resources of its Volkswagen parent company. In actual fact the GT shares many of its components and platform with the VW Phaeton, although unsurprisingly Bentley likes to keep that secret quiet.
As an every day car with its muscular bodywork and powerful upgrade car bulbs, the Bentley Continental GT is a fantastic ownership proposition, it has the looks, performance and presence all wrapped up within the legendary Bentley build quality. With the first of these Continental GT's now several years old, their used car prices have now fallen considerably and there has never been a better time to take the plunge and own one of these incredible cars yourself. Just think of the how nice it will be to sink into those quilted leather seats, fire up that amazing W12 engine, and allow the piercing bright xenon headlight bulbs to guide you home.
