Auto Channel

Here are the first photos of the 2013 Bentley Continental GT Speed Convertible, ahead of its reveal at the Detroit Auto Show in January 2013

The convertible is powered by the 6.0-liter twin-turbo W12 engine pulled straight out of its hard-top twin, it develops 625-horsepower and 800 Nm of torque. It will be connected to an eight-speed automatic transmission and an all-wheel drive system which will enable the model to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in approximately 4.2 seconds and hit a top speed of roughly 322 km/h (200 mph).

Cosmetically it’s more of the same GT Speed goodness as the coupe, with dark tinted matrix grills at the front, a rifled finish for the tailpipes, GT Speed alloys, the Mulliner Driving Pack with quilted leather and a smattering of ‘GT Speed’ Logos.

the Bentley GTC Speed retains the aggressive stance of the GT Speed sans the roof. While it’s fun to drive with open-top freedom, it does add some extra weight and hampers the stability of the vehicle, though none of these problems are of concern if you’re intent on torturing it at a track.

The GT Speed Convertible will get a permanent all-wheel drive and a Torsen differential as standard. It gets a new, close-ratio, ZF eight-speed automatic transmission with intelligent adaptive control software for smoother changes and a twelve percent increase in economy and CO2 emissions. The steering and suspension systems have been upgraded together with a lowered ride height. Complementing the new set up is a unique set of 21 inch Speed wheels with two finishes and 275/35 R21 Pirelli PZero ultra-high performance tyres.