Bentley truly struck gold when it introduced the Continental GT back in 2003. Designed to commemorate the Bentleys of yesteryear, the classically modern Conti GT provided exactly what the day called for – a sleek, fast, comfortable and exotic car that didn’t cost a mint. Well, maybe half a mint. But the new GT was only part of a larger story back in Coventry. The company had recently been acquired by the Volkswagen Group, and as a result, the thinking was forward, the money was fluid and the aging Bentley name received a much-needed defibrillation.
Today, while auto revenues seem to be drying up like rubbing alcohol in the Sahara, Bentley is still thriving under the VW flag, largely due to the German automaker allowing the brand to operate more or less autonomously. Profits are up at Bentley, and product perception is beyond anyone’s original expectations. After the success of the Conti GT, Bentley opened the tap further by introducing the Continental Flying Spur, Continental GT Speed, and most recently, the Continental Flying Spur Speed.
The Flying Spur was the smartest car out of Coventry in decades, if not of all time. Boasting the same assets as the Continental GT, the Flying Spur brought additional length, height, and two rear doors. Now the previously cramped GT could be had as a more upright, useful sedan capable of spanking little Italian cars up and down the highway all day long. It was a terrific idea and continues to sell well. When Bentley tacked the word “Speed” to the GT and Flying Spur, it only made them sound a little meaner and more spirited. Recently, we had the opportunity to spend some time behind the wheel of both a Flying Spur and Flying Spur Speed to compare and contrast the two. Initially it was hard to distinguish between the standard Flying Spur’s 552 horsepower and the Speed’s 600. But after a bit it became apparent that, yes, the Speed is quicker, and with typical British subtlety, the differences are hidden in the details.
The Flying Spur is one of those machines that reminds you how motoring was meant to be. Take all the modern exotic cars, put them together, and somehow, in some way, they all wish they could be a Bentley. And why not? It’s a substantial car with an understated presence that commands a respect few other cars can. Stepping on the gas is electrifying, but not in that immature, noisy, fussy way of most exotics. It gives off just enough growl, pulls off the smoothness of a jet and nearly as much thrust. As scenery blurs beyond the windows, you remain comfortably in command, despite the threatening curves and corners in the canyon ahead; and both Bentleys, especially the Speed, tame the curves with a confidence seldom seen in new cars today. Should an unsuspecting deer cross your Big B’s course, huge brakes bring the massive sedan to a timely halt.
Then there’s the flip side to the Flying Spur coin – the side that allows you to just enjoy unflustered cruising. The cabin is typically Bentley-silent with supple seats and beautiful trim and appointments that create a relaxed atmosphere. Pop on the radio, and let the massively powerful Naim sound system surround you in concert hall clarity or let you hear the paperclips fall in the background of your favorite newscast. For longer journeys, the in-seat massager is a welcome addition for loosening tense back muscles.
And then there’s the Flying Spur Speed
Riding slightly lower than the Flying Spur, the Speed also boasts a darker look overall, with larger wheels and fewer visual pleasantries. It’s all business and ready to terminate most anything in light-to light combat. This becomes obvious from the subtle backfires you hear the moment you blip the throttle and back off. Throatier and slightly quicker than the Flying Spur, the Speed actually gives off after burble when you let off a healthy tromp of the accelerator. It’s like an old-school hot rod, only it turns, stops, and coddles. Instead of challenging its passengers, it challenges other cars. Inside, certain cues give away that this is not your average Flying Spur, such as the redesigned steering wheel, slightly firmer seats, and restyled brake pedals. But it’s still a Winged-B car and cruises with extreme ease down the boulevard with the massager on, the Naim-developed sound system belting out your favorite tunes and virtual silence enveloping you and your passengers. However, when a car is called “Speed,” you really should enjoy your favorite windy road once in a while – open up the throttle, revel in the more pronounced exhaust notes and shift through the gears manually with the slick paddle shifter.
Truly a great way to unwind after a long day at work
Whichever is right for you, the slightly lower, faster, more sinister Speed or the understated and elegant Flying Spur, you’ll be glad to know that you can tailor your B any way you want it. Like that shade of lipstick? Make it the color of your interior. Want more supple seats in the Speed? No problem. How about the trim? Would you like very British burled walnut, or do you want to delve into the modern realm of darkened elm or engine-turned aluminum fascias? Either way, it’s yours with a Bentley. Life’s full of tough choices, isn’t it?
Test drive yours at Bentley San Francisco, 999 Van Ness Avenue. 415-776-7450, bentleysf.com.
