The GTC Speed is a more sporting version of the “entry level” Bentley convertible, just like the Speed models of the 1920s were higher-performance variants of cars such as the 3-liter and the 6 1/2-liter. Outwardly, it’s distinguished from a Continental GTC by striking 20-inch wheels, a trunklid lip spoiler, and a matte-finish grille. Inside, you’ll find a three-spoke sport steering wheel, a knurled-chrome and leather shift lever, drilled alloy pedals, and diamond quilting on the leather that adorns the seats, rear quarter-panels, and door pads.

It was only a matter of time before Bentley introduced a Speed version of its Continental GTC convertible. Debuting at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show, the Bentley Continental GTC Speed benefits from some subtle visual changes that improve the "regular" GTC as well. If the GTC's 552-hp 6.0L W-12 isn't enough for you, try the 600-hp GTC Speed, powered by a twin-turbocharged W-12 that helps propel the Bentley to a top speed of 200 mph. After you wait 25 seconds to lower the top, the top speed only drops by 5 mph, to 195 mph. The GTC Speed has 553 lb-ft of torque -- 15 percent more than a regular-strength GTC. The GTC Speed's six-speed automatic has two automatic modes -- Drive and Sport -- or it can be controlled via steering wheel paddles or by using the gearlever.

This road test may be irrelevant. Which wouldn’t necessarily make it unique to the pages of C/D. This time, however, it isn’t our fault. See, Bentley is going to create only 550 Brooklands—delivering the final one toward the end of 2009—and 549 of them are already spoken for. The grand-touring coupe you see on these pages, in a color Bentley calls “Porcelain,” is the last copy for sale. Or was at the time this was written.

Embrace one of the most expensive luxury cars on the road to date - the Bentley Azure.  Enjoy!

The Bentley Continental GT marked the start into the period of complete independence. For some 70 years Rolls-Royce and Bentley had been produced side by side until the final separation of both marques under the wings of different parent companies from 2003 onward.

The Los Angeles Motor Show in January 2005 had seen the presentation of a conception car „Bentley Arnage Drophead Coupé“ that was a test to check if there was sufficient demand.

The new Bentley Continental GT - Enjoy!