I think they've got a winner here... Bentley announces stunning new convertible version of the Continental GT Crewe, 26th September 2005 Bentley Motors is proud to announce the introduction of the Continental GTC. The new luxury 2+2 convertible completes the Bentley Continental model range following the introduction of the highly successful Continental GT in 2003 and four-door Continental Flying Spur earlier this year. The new Continental GTC goes on sale in late 2006. With a top speed in excess of 190mph (304 km/h), a sophisticated all-wheel drive system, state-of-the-art 12-cylinder engine, advanced air suspension and ultra-stiff body structure, the Continental GTC displays all the poise, exhilarating performance and dynamic handling of the Continental GT. In common with its stable mates, the interior of the new Continental GTC provides an unrivalled standard of craftsmanship, utilising natural wood veneers and leather hides of the finest quality. While sharing the familiar face of the Continental family, the design personality of the new Continental GTC is distinctive and unique, as Bentleys design director Dirk van Braeckel explains: With the Continental GTC we set out to achieve a style that is both contemporary and elegant but with the sporting stance of a true performance car. We also wanted to ensure that the Continental GTC looks just as beautiful with the roof up as it does when its down. In keeping with the Bentley tradition, the new Continental GTC has a soft fabric roof and heated glass rear screen. When stowed below its hide-covered tonneau, efficient packaging ensures excellent space for both rear passengers and their luggage. The Continental GTC becomes the second convertible to grace the current Bentley range. It follows the recently announced return of the evocative Azure name for Bentleys Arnage-derived flagship four-seater convertible which goes on sale in Spring 2006. While the Azure offers the ultimate in glamour and sophistication, the Continental GTC is designed for customers looking to enjoy the phenomenal performance, style and excitement of the Continental GT with the additional benefits of classic open-top Bentley motoring. The Continental GTC is the third step in our new product and segment strategy, explains Bentley chairman Dr Franz-Josef Paefgen. It will again open up the Bentley brand to more customers who only buy convertibles, as well as being a logical next car for our existing owners. Further details, including full technical specification, market availability and pricing will be released nearer to the Continental GTCs on-sale date. Image Unavailable, Please Login Image Unavailable, Please Login Image Unavailable, Please Login
Technical Specification Model Type Body Type 2+2 seater convertible Engine Type Twin turbo 6-litre W12 Bore/stroke - mm 84/90.2 Capacity - cc 5998 Compression ratio 9.0:1 Valve gear DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder Emission controls EU4 and LEV1 Power - kW (PS) 411 (560) @ 6100 rev/min Torque - Nm (lb ft) 650 (479) @ 1600 rev/min DRIVETRAIN Transmission ZF 6-speed automatic with 'Tiptronic' feature SUSPENSION Springs Progressive air springs Dampers Continuous Damping Control, 4 settings, adjustable ROOF 7-bow fabric roof with hide tonneau cover Full automated electro-hydraulic operation DIMENSIONS Wheelbase 2745mm (108.07in) Front track 1623mm (63.90in) Rear track 1607mm (63.27in) Overall length 4807mm (189.25in) Width (across mirrors) 2102mm (82.76in) Overall height 1398mm (55.04in)
Can't wait to see it in person! The CGT is a drop dead georgeous car....probably my favorite non-Fcar on the road today! A top down version will be stunny!
I wonder why they didn't go for a folding 3 piece roof a la the new Volvo 4 seat convertable that pf designed? That roof would look great and be much more fitting on a luxury car than a soft top IMO.
Technology wise, I think they have access to the best there is on roof mechanisms. My guess is maybe they want to preserve the ' english 'ness of the Bentley brand with leather for a tonneau cover etc..etc..In short, they're going for a neo-classical look and feel. JMO
NO OFFENSE GUYS but i personally think the bentleys are ugly cars and way over priced. i would rather have a lambo or a ferrari. whenever i see the bentley on the road i dont even look twice.
I'm guessing packaging reasons. I like the design they came up with for the top down, still interested in seeing what it looks like with the top up.
None taken, these cars, like Ferraris, aren't for everyone. Personally, I like the styling on these more than the newer Ferraris.
i feel bad, i came in here expecting to see a continental that was tubbed, bare bones interior, carbon fiber everywhere, race seat with harnesses, large wing, massive brakes, much akin to the 575 gtc. i was sorely mistaken
John, go drive a GT, it will totally change your mind.... it is incredible, makes a 550/575 feel like a camaro....
I have had a deposit on this car for 2 years now and my dealer still doesn't have a firm date. I think it should have been a hard top as well. I like the Volante as well but the Bentley will have a more useable back seat and for some reason I think the Volante loses some looks of the DB9 because of the top and I feel the Bentley looks good either way. Should be a great car though, exotic car performance with luxury features and comfort. Good mix.
i'd like to see some real snaps - not conceptual stuff. the only pics i can find are spy pics - and they differ from these snaps in some material ways (as one would expect). doody.
That is a great looking car. I didnt really like the Continental GT. But the Convertible! oh does it look great.
Add me to the list of those disappointed that it does not have an articulated hard top....drop the back seats if need be.
Different strokes for different folks... Me, I'd take a Maranello over any Bentley. No doubt the Bent has a huge motor. But it weighs too much and is ugly for my taste. Your mileage may vary, however. Dale