conceptcarz.com

2014 Bentley Continental GT3-R

BENTLEY CONTINENTAL GT3-R DEFINES A NEW CHAPTER IN PERFORMANCE-FOCUSSED LUXURY

2014 Bentley Continental GT3-R
Inspired by the Continental GT3, the ultimate GT: Two seats, 580 PS, 700 Nm and 100 kg lighter than a GT V8 S
• Limited to just 300 examples for guaranteed exclusivity
• Torque vectoring combines with shorter gearing for the most dynamic Bentley road car in history
• Hand built in Crewe and finished by Bentley Motorsport

(Crewe, 17th June 2014) Bentley announces the rarest and most dynamic member of the esteemed Continental family of Grand Tourers with the arrival of the new Continental GT3-R. It is inspired by the new Continental GT3 race car that stormed to victory at the second round of the Blancpain Endurance Series at Silverstone, the first ÚK race for Bentley for 84 years. Blending proven track and road credentials, the Continental GT3-R is a highly exclusive and unique interpretation of performance-focussed luxury, limited to just 300 examples.

All 300 examples of the Continental GT3-R will be hand-built in Crewe and finished in Bentley's Motorsport division.

Bentley engineers have developed a retuned version of Bentley's race-proven, high performance 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 for this new two-seater GT. Developing 580 PS (572 bhp / 426 kW) and 700 Nm of torque, together with a 100 kg weight reduction and shorter gearing, the Continental GT3-R is the fastest-accelerating Bentley ever. Capable of reaching 60 mph from a standstill in just 3.6 seconds (0-100 km/h in 3.8 secs), the GT3-R is a Grand Tourer with the performance of a racer.

Complementing the revised powertrain is a further development of Bentley's renowned all-wheel drive system, which now features torque vectoring for the first time. Together with modified Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and a chassis tune optimised for outright cornering ability, the Continental GT3-R is the most dynamic, responsive and involving Bentley road car ever.

Wolfgang Dürheimer, Chairman and Chief Executive of Bentley Motors, comments:

'The experience of driving a Continental GT3-R is awe-inspiring, and takes the dynamic abilities of our Grand Tourer to new heights. We were inspired to create something extremely special for the road by the performance of our Continental GT3. It is a celebration of the Bentley passion for building outstanding drivers' cars. To be a true Bentley, the GT3-R had to be the most luxurious track-inspired Grand Tourer ever, and this car pushes our trademark combination of luxury and performance to a new level.'

A Revised Powertrain Developed For Acceleration2014 Bentley Continental GT3-R
For the GT3-R, Bentley's powertrain division set about developing a special combination of engine, driveline and exhaust to create an evocative, powerful yet efficient system. Bentley's popular and widely acclaimed 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine, now race proven by the Continental GT3, has been fitted with precision-honed high-boost turbochargers and developed with new engine control software to liberate 580 PS at 6,000 rpm and 700 Nm of torque from 1,700 rpm.

This increased power is fed through the Continental's eight-speed ZF automatic gearbox, now with shorter output gearing to enhance acceleration, to Bentley's renowned all-wheel drive system. For the first time for a Bentley, the drivetrain has the ability to control the torque at each of the rear wheels through the use of torque vectoring. Recalibrated control software means that Drive and Sport modes are moved further apart, each with different characteristics and with Sport mode designed for more spirited driving. Maximum driver control is provided by completely recalibrated paddle shift functionality.

A soundtrack appropriate to the new levels of performance is provided by an all-new titanium exhaust, which not only provides a weight saving of 7 kg but also has allowed Bentley's acoustic engineers to give the GT3-R a unique baritone roar.

A Chassis System For Últimate Driver Engagement

To provide a dynamic capability unmatched in the Grand Touring sector, the GT3-R receives a chassis system focussed on performance whilst retaining a cossetting level of refinement for everyday use. Air springs and dampers use a development of the sports-tuned setup from the Continental V8 S, already recognised as the best-handling Bentley ever, while lightweight forged 21' wheels and high-grip Pirelli tyres deploy the torque-vectored power output of the engine.
This combination, together with a sport-focussed Electronic Stability Control programme, offers a Continental with a new level of handling dynamics and turn-in agility, while both the chassis and powertrain respond immediately to throttle inputs.

Deceleration is via Bentley's record-holding Carbon Silicon Carbide (CSiC) braking system. 420 mm front discs are slowed by 8-piston calipers finished in eye-catching green paint, while 356 mm discs are fitted to the rear axle. With the ability to absorb up to 10 megajoules of energy (enough to power a family home for six hours) in a single stop yet remain fade resistant, Bentley's CSiC brakes are an engineering masterpiece in their own right.

Commenting on the performance of the new Continental GT3-R, Bentley's Member of the Board for Engineering, Rolf Frech, comments:

'We wanted to develop our powertrain and chassis systems further than ever before for the GT3-R project. The result is a Continental GT that is more dynamic than ever, with a torque vectoring system that neutralises understeer and a chassis tune that is both direct and forgiving. We've differentiated the Drive and Sport modes further to give the driver a choice between a relaxed and refined Grand Tourer and a sharp supercar with instant responses. The reflexes of the car are matched by the throttle response from our redeveloped V8 engine, and the new turbochargers eliminate turbo lag. Bentleys are rewarding drivers' cars – but dynamically, the GT3-R is our finest hour yet.'

Delivering Luxury Together With Extreme Performance

2014 Bentley Continental GT3-R
All Bentleys are a combination of luxury and performance, and the Continental GT3-R is no exception. Featuring a unique two-seat cabin handcrafted from carbon fibre, Alcantara® and the finest leather, the GT3-R is as breathtaking in its approach to interior design as to its dynamic ability.

The two-seat configuration includes a pair of new bespoke sporting seats with additional side support through deeper bolsters, including newly designed foam layers for comfort and finished in Beluga black leather with diamond-quilted Alcantara®. This exquisite material is also hand-trimmed to the steering wheel and gear shifter, while the centre console and fascia panels are handcrafted in carbon fibre. Carbon fibre is also used to create beautifully sculpted door casings that also include diamond-quilted Alcantara® inner panels. In place of the rear seats is a new uniquely trimmed rear cabin, complete with a carbon fibre surround and finished in leather and Alcantara®.

Contrasting the Beluga leather and motorsport-inspired materials is a vivid accent green, used as a hide colour on the seats, instrument panel and door panels and in contrast stitching throughout the seats and diamond-quilted areas. GT3-R badging adorns the centre console, passenger-side fascia panel and sill treadplates, while the seats receive GT3-R stitching to the headrests in contrast-green thread.

Dramatic and Purposeful Exterior Style Statements

2014 Bentley Continental GT3-RFor the exterior of the GT3-R, Bentley's Design team was tasked with creating a more purposeful stance than ever before. A new front splitter provides an assertive look to the front of the car, balanced by a new fixed rear wing fitted to the boot lid – both finished in exquisite carbon fibre. The bonnet incorporates two vents to improve the cooling capacity of the powertrain system for repeated accelerations while also invoking the shape of the Continental GT3 racer in a styling element where form follows function.

The gloss carbon fibre contrasts with the Glacier White paint that all 300 cars will be finished in, and the inspiration of the Continental GT3 race car is highlighted by the use of two-tone green graphics that trace the two power lines to the side profile of the car – one leading backwards from the front wheel, the other tracing the shape of the Continental GT's iconic rear haunch.

Further inspiration from the Continental GT3 is reflected in the finishing touches to the exterior – the headlamp bezels, matrix grille, window surrounds and bumper strips – all finished in stylish gloss black.

The visual appeal of the Continental GT3-R is completed by an all-new lightweight 21' wheel, machine-forged from high-strength alloy and finished in gloss black.

Purchase of the car also includes free standard servicing for four years (at the 10,000, 20,000 and 30,000 mile marks). Order books for the Continental GT3-R are open now, with deliveries to start late in 2014.

Source - Bentley

Related Reading : Bentley Continental History

Rolls-Royce introduced the Project 90 concept car at the 1984 Geneva Motor Show. Many elements of this design would make its way into a new Bentley, which was backed by much enthusiasm and rave reviews of the concept. By 1991 the Continental R was ready and made its debut at the Geneva Motor Show. Again, the response was exceptional and the reviews were enthusiastic. The red show car that made its....
Continue Reading >>

Recent Vehicle Additions

Performance and Specification Comparison

Related Automotive News

BENTLEY WINS GT ASIA TEAMS' TITLE

BENTLEY WINS GT ASIA TEAMS' TITLE

Bentley Team Absolute takes the GT Asia Series title Team takes pole position, a race win and a podium in Thailand Second championship win for the Bentley Continental GT3 27 October 2015, Crewe - Bentley Team Absolute has taken the GT Asia...
BENTLEY CONTINENTAL GT3 WINS BLANCPAIN SPRINT SERIES

BENTLEY CONTINENTAL GT3 WINS BLANCPAIN SPRINT SERIES

Bentley Continental GT3 wins first major championship Bentley Team HTP takes Blancpain Sprint Series drivers title Maxi Buhk and Vincent Abril crowned champions 12 October 2015, Crewe - The Bentley Continental GT3 has won its first major r...
BENTLEY MOTORSPORT GAINS VALUABLE EXPERIENCE AT GRUELLING NÜRBURGRING 24-HOUR RACE

BENTLEY MOTORSPORT GAINS VALUABLE EXPERIENCE AT GRUELLING NÜRBURGRING 24-HOUR RACE

Bentley Team HTP score P8 with #11 Continental GT3 Bentley Motorsport #84 car forced to retire from promising P10 #85 car dropped from contention after being hit and spun into the barrier Stellar effort from mechanics returns #85 to the race for...
CONTINENTAL GT3-R ADDS POTENT ICE POWER IN 2015

CONTINENTAL GT3-R ADDS POTENT ICE POWER IN 2015

Oct 29, 2014 Power on Ice - the ultimate winter ice-driving event returns for 2015 The Continental GT3-R makes its dynamic debut on the ice Programme designed by four-time World Rally Champion and two-time ice speed record breaker Juha Kank...
BENTLEY RACES TO FIRST VICTORY IN NORTH AMERICA

BENTLEY RACES TO FIRST VICTORY IN NORTH AMERICA

Bentley Boy Guy Smith sets unstoppable pace in Utah The first ever victory for Bentley Motorsport outside Europe Continental GT3 shows prodigious pace after half a season of the Pirelli World Challenge (Crewe, 16th September 2014) Bentl...
McLaren Automotive takes to the track at Goodwood Members' Meeting in celebration of a decade of supercar innovation and success

McLaren Automotive takes to the track at Goodwood Members' Meeting in celebration of a decade of supercar innovation and success

McLaren parades opened weekend of celebrations at prestigious Goodwood Members Meeting at Goodwood Motor Circuit, UK Luxury supercar maker McLaren Automotive and customers mark 10 years of innovation and high-performance excellence since delivery...
ALFA ROMEO ANNOUNCES PRICING FOR ALL-NEW 2017 GIULIA LINEUP

ALFA ROMEO ANNOUNCES PRICING FOR ALL-NEW 2017 GIULIA LINEUP

Premium Mid-size Sedan Named Car of the Year by Top Gear Magazine Starts at %2437,995 MSRP %26 Record-Breaking 505-hp Quadrifoglio at %2472,000 MSRP All-new Giulia lineup combines Italian craftsmanship, class-leading performance, state-of-the-ar...
BENTLEY BENTAYGA DIESEL: EFFORTLESS DRIVING WITH PEERLESS LUXURY

BENTLEY BENTAYGA DIESEL: EFFORTLESS DRIVING WITH PEERLESS LUXURY

The first diesel Bentley – power, refinement and range New-generation, triple-charged 4.0-litre V8 engine develops class-leading 435 PS (429 bhp) and 900 Nm (664 lb.ft.) torque Worlds fastest diesel SUV 0-100 kmh in 4.8 seconds and top speed of...
THE McLAREN 675LT: POWER. A BEAUTIFUL THING

THE McLAREN 675LT: POWER. A BEAUTIFUL THING

Light weight, optimised aerodynamics, increased power, track-focused dynamics and driver engagement – all characteristics of a McLaren Longtail 0-100 kmh (62 mph) in 2.9 seconds 0-200 kmh (124 mph) in 7.9 seconds top speed of 330kmh (205 mph...
Lexus Adds to the ‘F' Brand Stable With Addition of GS F Sedan

Lexus Adds to the ‘F' Brand Stable With Addition of GS F Sedan

High Revving 5.0L V8 Producing 467 hp in Five Passenger Sedan Lexus Goes Racing on Global Scale and Reveals New Motorsports Logo DETROIT (Jan. 13, 2015) – Throaty rumbles and nimble handling arent just for sport coupes. Meet the all-new 20...