Bentley launches new Continental GT3-R

BentleyBentleyUnited Kingdom, 1919 > present37 models
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unveiled a new high-performance version inspired on the Continental GT3Bentley Continental GT3United Kingdom, 2013 > present5 photos
. With a clear intention to refocus the brand image as an option of "luxury with a focus on performance," the Continental GT3-RBentley Continental GT3-RUnited Kingdom, 2014 > present is the most dynamic and faster accelerating car ever produced by Bentley.

In addition to demonstrating a new approach of the British brand, the Continental GT3-R will make it even more exclusive, as this version will have a limited production of 300 units. Bentley began accepting orders for the model today and initial deliveries are scheduled for the end of the year.

The new GT3-R is a two-seater equipped with a retouched version of the Continental V8 twin-turbo 4.0-liter engine. This reformulation gives the vehicle 580hp and 700Nm of torque. Furthermore, GT3-R is also 100 kg lighter than a GT S. The V8 engine was combined with an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission.

According to the British brand, the new Continental GT3-R can accelerate to 100km/h in 3.8 seconds and reach a top speed of 273km/h.

In addition to the upgraded engine, the GT3-R also received several changes in terms of mechanics including a new electronic stability control and a new version of the four wheel drive system of the Continental, for the first time available with torque vectoring technology. Thanks to it the car can tackle curves in a more aggressive way and reduce understeer.

The GT3-R retains the same basic suspension,
 but 
 air springs and dampers were developed based on the configuration used in the Continental GT V8 S.

The new car gets 21-inch forged wheels, the already known carbon-silicon-carbide braking system. Bentley states that it can absorb up to "10 megajoules" energy in braking, enough to power a house for six hours.

In terms of design the Bentley Continental GT3-R has undergone some changes compared to the standard model. The vehicle can be distinguished thanks to the new front splitter and rear spoiler made ​​of carbon fiber and also to two new openings in the hood. All versions will be painted in white, with the frames of the headlights, the radiator, the grille and windows finished in gloss black. Furthermore, the GT3-R still gets side green decals, aiming to strengthen the most dynamic look of the new version.

The GT3-R has been transformed into a two-seater, with the rear seats being substituted by a luggage bench. At the front the GT3-R gets sport seats with a new design and larger side bolsters and leather Beluga black Alcantara with diamond quilting pattern.

The same combination of materials is used on the steering wheel and gear lever. The center console, the front panels of the doors and roofs were coated in carbon fiber. The vehicle still gets GT3-R badging on the center console, on the passenger-side fascia and sill treadplates.