Bentley announced earlier this year that production of the Bentley W12 engine will come to an end in April 2024.
The Bentley W12 engine stands as a paragon of automotive engineering excellence, distinguished by its exceptional blend of power, refinement, and exclusivity. This unique powerplant, with its W-shaped configuration housing 12 cylinders, propels Bentley vehicles with an extraordinary combination of high horsepower and torque, delivering a driving experience that seamlessly merges performance with luxury.
The exclusivity of the W12 engine, found solely within Bentley’s lineup, further enhances the allure of these luxury vehicles, making them coveted among discerning enthusiasts who seek a harmonious fusion of power, craftsmanship, and opulence on the road.
While this iconic chapter in automotive history will officially conclude in the coming year, you still have the opportunity to immerse yourself in its greatness through the following models:
- Continental GT
- Flying Spur
- Bentayga
So, let’s deep dive into Bentley’s W12 engine excellence and the models that proudly feature this remarkable powerhouse.
Related: Bentley Continental GT W12
Continental GT
The Bentley W12 engine made its debut in the Continental GT, becoming the driving force for Bentley both metaphorically and literally over the past two decades. Crafted for seamless acceleration and an exhilarating driving experience, the Bentley Continental GT embodies a commitment to effortless performance.
Models with the W12 engine take performance to new heights: 650 horsepower, accelerating from 0-60 mph in a mere 3.5 seconds, and boasting a top speed of 208 mph.
In every model, the engine is positioned predominantly behind the front axle to enhance weight distribution and dynamic handling. The active all-wheel drive system allows you to experience rear-wheel drive in favorable tire conditions. However, it seamlessly transitions to all-wheel drive the moment the car detects even the slightest wheel slip, providing enhanced traction. From the Pirelli Noise Cancellation System to the three-chamber adaptive air suspension, the Continental GT is meticulously calibrated for comfort, confidence, and an exhilarating driving experience.
Above all, the Bentley Continental GT is undeniably beautiful inside out. Crafted from superformed aluminum panels, the streamlined and lightweight bodyshell of this vehicle enables the exterior to be constructed with fewer pieces, resulting in a smooth and nearly uninterrupted surface. Such a design is beyond reach for mass-produced cars.
The limited edition Continental GT Speed Edition 12 pays tribute to the W12 engine. Only 120 units will be produced. Bentley describes it: ” The Continental GT Speed Edition 12 builds on the iconic lines of the Continental GT Speed with a wealth of finely crafted details, collectively designed to look back on the life of the W12 engine and its role in Bentley’s history.”
You may also like: The Flying Spur S Hybrid
Bentley Flying Spur
The Bentley W12 engine empowers the Flying Spur with unparalleled strength, solidifying its reputation for exceptional power.
The Bentley Flying Spur is not merely a car; it is a sanctuary on wheels, offering a cocoon of luxurious comfort and cutting-edge technology. A halo of handcrafted surfaces envelops the seats, allowing you to choose from an array of options including high gloss woods, contemporary open pore finishes, or cutting-edge materials like carbon fiber and engine-turned aluminum. With its refined aesthetics, formidable performance, and a legacy of British luxury, the Bentley Flying Spur stands as a testament to automotive greatness.
The Flying Spur Speed Edition 12 commemorates Bentley’s W12 engine in remarkable style, marking the end of an iconic era. According to Bentley: “Only 120 examples of the Flying Spur Speed Edition 12 sedan will ever be built. For those who prefer a different body style, limited numbers of the following vehicles are available: the Continental GT Speed Edition 12, the Continental GTC Speed Edition 12 and the Bentayga Speed Edition 12.”
Specs
- Max speed 207 mph
- 0-60 mph in 3.7 seconds
- 626 horsepower
- Max torque 900 NM
Check out: Bentayga EWB Rear Seats
Bentley Bentayga
The Bentley Bentayga stands as a formidable symbol of automotive excellence, and its greatness is profoundly underscored by its exceptional performance capabilities. Fitted with a potent engine, often a W12, the Bentayga transcends the typical expectations of an SUV, delivering a compelling blend of power and refinement. Its acceleration is both swift and smooth, effortlessly propelling the vehicle to impressive speeds. The advanced chassis and suspension systems contribute to an exhilarating driving experience, seamlessly balancing dynamic handling with plush comfort.
2023 Bentayga Speed Specs
- 6.0L Twin-Turbo W12 Gas
- 626 hp
- all-wheel-drive
- 0-60 mph in 3.8 seconds
- top speed 190 mph
While the Bentley W12 engine signals the conclusion of an era, you can still explore and acquire models that proudly showcase this remarkable powerhouse at indiGO Auto Group.
