In a celebration of two decades of the Continental GT, Bentley unveiled a remarkable creation at The Quail, the 2024 Bentley Continental GT Speed. A unique masterpiece, this vehicle hails from the Mulliner personalization division, renowned for crafting bespoke automobiles that epitomize luxury and opulence. Drawing inspiration from the iconic first-generation Continental GT that graced roads in 2003, this one-off model exudes timeless sophistication.
Adorning this exceptional Continental GT Speed is a lustrous Cypress Green exterior finish, a nod to the brand’s heritage and reverence for classic aesthetics. The interior, a sanctuary of elegance, features sumptuous Saddle brown leather and a Burr Walnut wood veneer trim adorned with open pore and high gloss finishes. To infuse a touch of modernity, the cabin boasts subtle accents in the alluring shade of Special Green, harmoniously complementing the contrasting stitching. Stepping inside, the treadplates bear the inscription “20 years of the Continental GT by Bentley Mulliner,” a testament to the enduring legacy of this distinguished nameplate.
This automotive masterpiece is equipped with the Blackline, Touring, and Styling Specification packages, elevating its exterior to an even higher level of sophistication. Polished black brightware and exquisite carbon-fiber components grace the front splitter, side skirts, diffuser, and trunk lip spoiler. Adding a dash of allure are the 22-inch wheels, resplendent in a Dark Grey Satin finish, complete with self-leveling center caps.
The 2024 Bentley Continental GT Speed isn’t the only tribute to this iconic nameplate. Throughout the year, Bentley has been commemorating the 20th anniversary of the Continental GT with a series of exclusive creations. At the Shanghai Auto Show, they unveiled a captivating one-off model that featured a Magnetic Dark Grey exterior, accentuated by black chrome 22-inch wheels with a mesmerizing 10-spoke design. Inside, the cabin is a harmonious blend of Beluga and Hotspur leather, enhanced by Piano Black trim and a distinctive thin red stripe on the dashboard.
In a testament to the brand’s heritage, Bentley also drew inspiration from the 1953 R-Type Continental to create yet another unique Continental GT. This special model boasts an Old English White exterior, adorned with bright chrome trim and striking black 22-inch wheels. Inside, the cabin exudes sophistication with Cricket Ball brown leather and Burr Walnut trim, paying homage to the timeless elegance of its predecessor.
The journey of the Continental GT began in 2003, when it made its debut, drawing inspiration from the 1952 R Type Continental. The first generation was powered by a twin-turbocharged 6.0-liter W12 engine, delivering an impressive 552 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque.
In 2010, the second generation graced the automotive scene, becoming available to eager buyers in 2011. Initially equipped with the W12 engine, it later welcomed the twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 in 2012. This generation also spawned the GT3-inspired Supersports variant, captivating driving enthusiasts with its blend of power and style.
The third and current generation of the Continental GT was unveiled in 2018, a testament to Bentley’s commitment to evolving and improving their iconic model. The V8 and W12 engines remain as powertrain options, delivering exhilarating performance. Spy shots have even hinted at an upcoming plug-in hybrid variant, showcasing Bentley’s dedication to embracing modern technologies while preserving the timeless appeal of the Continental GT.
