Farewell: Bentley Continental GT Speed with the legendary W12 Engine

As the automotive world grows to adopt electrified powertrains and less polluting engines, some of the most iconic power manufacturers are rolling off production lines for the last time.

Last month marked the end of an era for Bentley as the prestigious automaker completed production of its final W12 engine, a powerplant that has defined the brand for over two decades.

Introduced in 2003, the W12 engine became synonymous with Bentley’s most iconic models, including the Continental GT, Bentayga, and Flying Spur.

With more than 100,000 units produced, the W12 has left an indelible mark on automotive history. However, as Bentley shifts towards hybrid powertrains, the time has come to bid farewell to this engineering marvel.

A Last Hurrah for the W12: The 2024 Bentley Continental GT Speed

Before the W12 is replaced by a 4.0-liter V8 hybrid powertrain, I had the opportunity to experience the 2024 Bentley Continental GT Speed, one of the final models to feature the 6.0-liter, 650 bhp twin-turbocharged W12 engine.

The GT Speed is a masterful blend of luxury and performance, embodying the essence of what makes Bentley truly special. It sits at the intersection of opulent grand touring and exhilarating sports car performance, proving that these attributes can coexist harmoniously in a single vehicle.

What Is the 2024 Bentley Continental GT Speed Like to Drive?

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Unlike the Bentley Bentayga, which is primarily designed for passenger comfort, the Continental GT Speed is a car that truly comes alive in the hands of the driver.

From the moment you press the start/stop button, the engine awakens with a deep, resonant burble, hinting at the power that lies beneath the hood. The accelerator responds with a sense of grandeur, as if the car is a ship gracefully departing from port, making its presence known on the road.

The brake pedal offers an early indication of the GT Speed’s formidable power. Even a light touch is enough to bring the car to a halt, requiring a delicate interaction to achieve a smooth response. But it’s on the open road where the GT Speed truly shines.

The car effortlessly accelerates, with 0 to 60 mph achieved in just 3.5 seconds, and 0 to 100 mph in a mere 7.8 seconds. The sensation of speed is both exhilarating and controlled, with the GT Speed’s 208 mph top speed feeling well within reach.

Cruising at high speeds feels natural in the GT Speed, as if the car was purpose-built for such feats. The combination of luxurious comfort and blistering performance creates an unparalleled driving experience, making it one of Bentley’s most accomplished vehicles to date.

Conclusion: A Fitting Farewell

As Bentley moves towards a more sustainable future, the Continental GT Speed with its iconic W12 engine stands as a fitting tribute to the brand’s storied past.

It represents the pinnacle of Bentley’s engineering prowess, delivering a driving experience that is both luxurious and thrilling.

For those fortunate enough to experience it, the GT Speed offers a final taste of what has made Bentley a legend in the world of luxury automobiles.