The ‘Wow Factor’ maxes out with Bentley’s scintillating new Supersports Convertible.
How does a twin-turbocharged, 463kW, W12 cylinder engine sound? Sounds even better with 800Nm of torque, zero to 100km/h in 4.2 seconds and a top speed of 325km/h making the Supersports, the world’s fastest four-seat convertible!
The Supersports name comes from the iconic 1925 racing Bentleys which were the first production cars to reach 160km/h.
But we’re living in 2010 and this remarkable Bentley’s Volkswagen-sourced powerplant is capable of running on normal unleaded or E85 bioethanol (or a combination of both) – the engine detects the fuel type and adjusts so power and torque don’t change. While the engine is EURO V compliant, fuel consumption remains hefty at 16.7l/100kms (combined cycle) and the CO2 emissions are 388g/km.
Drive is to the rear wheels via a six-speed ZF transmission with ‘Quickshift’ that cuts shift times by 50 per cent to just 93 milliseconds and enables double downshifts.
The chassis features Continuous Damping Control, 20-inch, 10-spoke lightweight alloy wheels with 275/35 ZR20 Pirelli tyres and carbon-ceramic disc brakes.
The bodywork uses new exotic stainless steel and the rear side panels/wheel arches are curved to accommodate the Supersport’s unique rear track which is 50mm wider than the other Continental models. Bentley enthusiasts will also notice the revised front air intakes, new aerodynamic exterior mirrors and new bonnet vents to help cool the W12.
Six new colours have been added to the Bentley palette (Citric, White Satin, Kingfisher, Magenta, Orange Flame and St James Red Pearl). The three-layer fabric hood is available in a choice of eight colours including a new Dark Grey Metallic option.
Inside is pure Bentley craftsmanship with Alcantara ‘Soft Grip’ diamond-quilted leather for the lightweight sports seats and extensive use of satin-finished carbon fibre trim - saves weight and alludes to the sports car nature of this vehicle. Of course individual customization of the interior remains available.
