The year 2017 marked a significant moment for Bentley enthusiasts, witnessing the arrival of the Bentley GT Speed and the striking GT Speed Black Edition. These models represented the pinnacle of performance and luxury within the Continental GT range. Boasting enhanced power, refined aesthetics, and a host of exclusive features, both cars delivered an unparalleled driving experience. Let’s delve into the details of these exceptional vehicles, exploring what made them so special and coveted.
Performance and Engineering
The Bentley GT Speed and Speed Black Edition shared the same formidable heart: a 6.0-liter twin-turbocharged W12 engine. This powerhouse produced an impressive 633 horsepower and 620 lb-ft of torque. This translated into blistering acceleration, allowing the cars to reach 0-60 mph in a mere 3.9 seconds and achieve a top speed of 206 mph. The engine was mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, ensuring seamless gear changes and optimal power delivery.
Key Performance Features:
- 6.0-liter twin-turbocharged W12 engine
- 633 horsepower and 620 lb-ft of torque
- 0-60 mph in 3.9 seconds
- Top speed of 206 mph
- Eight-speed automatic transmission
Design and Aesthetics
While both models shared a similar platform, the GT Speed Black Edition stood out with its distinctive styling cues. It featured dark-tinted exterior brightware, including the radiator matrix, window surrounds, and headlamps. The wheels were also finished in a gloss black, adding to the car’s menacing appearance. Inside, the Black Edition boasted a unique interior trim, often featuring contrasting stitching and carbon fiber accents.
Distinguishing Features of the Black Edition:
- Dark-tinted exterior brightware
- Gloss black wheels
- Unique interior trim with contrasting stitching
- Carbon fiber accents (often optional)
Factoid: The “Speed” designation on a Bentley signifies the highest performance variant within a particular model range. It’s a badge of honor representing power, speed, and exclusivity.
Interior Luxury and Craftsmanship
As expected from Bentley, the interiors of both the GT Speed and Speed Black Edition were lavishly appointed. Premium leather upholstery, handcrafted wood veneers, and meticulously applied metal accents created an atmosphere of unparalleled luxury. The seats were designed for both comfort and support, ensuring a pleasurable driving experience even on long journeys. Advanced infotainment systems and a host of driver-assistance features further enhanced the overall experience.
Interior Highlights:
- Premium leather upholstery
- Handcrafted wood veneers
- Meticulously applied metal accents
- Comfortable and supportive seats
- Advanced infotainment system
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about the 2017 Bentley GT Speed and Speed Black Edition:
Q: What is the main difference between the GT Speed and the GT Speed Black Edition?
A: The main difference lies in the exterior and interior styling. The Black Edition features dark-tinted brightware, black wheels, and unique interior trim elements.
Q: How much did these cars cost new?
A: The MSRP for the 2017 Bentley GT Speed and Speed Black Edition varied depending on options and customization, but they typically started around $250,000.
Q: Were there any performance upgrades in the Black Edition?
A: The engine performance was the same in both models. The Black Edition focused on aesthetic enhancements.
Q: Are these cars still desirable today?
A: Absolutely. The Bentley GT Speed and Speed Black Edition remain highly sought-after by collectors and enthusiasts due to their performance, luxury, and exclusivity.
Legacy and Impact
The 2017 Bentley GT Speed and Speed Black Edition solidified Bentley’s reputation for producing exceptional grand touring vehicles. They showcased the brand’s commitment to performance, luxury, and craftsmanship. These models continue to be admired for their timeless design, powerful engines, and opulent interiors, serving as a benchmark for luxury automakers worldwide.
Beyond the Asphalt: The Soul of the Speed
But the numbers, the leather, the darkened chrome – they only whisper the story. To truly understand the 2017 GT Speed and Speed Black Edition, you had to feel it. Imagine sliding behind the wheel, the scent of hand-stitched hides enveloping you like a tailored embrace. The low rumble of the W12, a sleeping giant roused, vibrating through the chassis; This wasn’t just transportation; it was a visceral connection to engineering artistry. It was the feeling of effortless power surging beneath your foot, capable of shrinking continents with a flex of your ankle. It was the hushed serenity of the cabin at triple-digit speeds, a world away from the mundane cacophony of everyday life.
A Symphony of Senses: More Than Just Horsepower
The experience wasn’t solely about brute force. Bentley understood that true luxury lay in the details. The cool touch of knurled metal switchgear, the perfectly weighted steering wheel, the intricate stitching patterns that danced across the leather – these were the brushstrokes of a master craftsman, creating a symphony of tactile and visual delight. The Speed and Black Edition weren’t simply cars; they were rolling sculptures, meticulously honed to evoke a sense of awe and wonder.
Factoid: The “Flying B” hood ornament, officially known as the “Winged B,” has been a symbol of Bentley since 1919 and is a registered trademark. It represents the brand’s pursuit of speed and luxury. The modern version is designed to retract into the hood in the event of a pedestrian impact.
The Black Mirror: A Reflection of Rebellion
The Speed Black Edition, in particular, possessed a rebellious streak. It wasn’t just a faster GT; it was a statement. A declaration that luxury could be edgy, that performance could be menacing. The darkened brightware and gloss black wheels weren’t mere aesthetic choices; they were a defiant shout against the status quo, a refusal to conform to the expectations of the ultra-luxury segment. It was the automotive equivalent of a perfectly tailored black suit, exuding confidence and understated power.
Owning a Legend: More Than Just Possession
To own a 2017 Bentley GT Speed or Speed Black Edition wasn’t just about possessing a car; it was about inheriting a legacy. It was about becoming a part of a story that spanned decades, a story of innovation, craftsmanship, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. These weren’t disposable commodities; they were heirlooms, destined to be cherished and passed down through generations. They represented a commitment to quality, a passion for driving, and an appreciation for the finer things in life.
- A Timeless Investment: These cars hold their value remarkably well, often appreciating over time.
- A Community of Enthusiasts: Ownership unlocks access to a global network of Bentley enthusiasts and exclusive events.
- A Statement of Individuality: These cars reflect a unique sense of style and discerning taste.
The Echo of the Speed: A Lasting Impression
Years after their debut, the 2017 Bentley GT Speed and Speed Black Edition continue to captivate. They remain potent symbols of automotive achievement, testaments to the enduring power of meticulous engineering and timeless design. They are reminders that true luxury isn’t just about opulence; it’s about the feeling, the experience, the indelible mark left on the soul long after the engine has cooled and the journey has ended. They are, in essence, more than just cars; they are legends on wheels.
