For those financially equipped and eager to invest in a luxurious GT adorned with premium leather, England stands ready to assist. Since its inception in 2003, Bentley has seen significant popularity with its Continental GT, producing an impressive 80,000 units from its Crewe facility. The GT model combines speed with extravagance, showcasing W12 and V8 engines paired with opulent interiors that boast more stitching than a convention of dedicated BMX enthusiasts.
After three successful generations of this two-door vehicle, the landmark 80,000th Continental GT is a right-hand drive V8 model, painted in a striking Orange Flame. This special edition also includes optional Blackline and Styling features. To mark this milestone, Bentley showcased the iconic 1952 Bentley R-Type Continental, an original from their heritage fleet, which was known for being the fastest four-seater of its time, reaching nearly 120 mph.
Currently, customers still have the option of selecting a Continental Mulliner over the standard GT models. Bentley’s lineup over the past 18 years includes some remarkable pieces, such as the very first production Continental GT (VIN 0001), a 621-horsepower Continental Supersports coupé, a second-generation V8 S coupe in Jetstream, and a contemporary GT Convertible in Dragon Red—though these models are not for sale.
With an average annual production of 5,000 GTs, Bentley has certainly broadened its appeal. Nevertheless, with 80,000 units in circulation and the retirement of the Mulsanne as the flagship model, those seeking a more exclusive vehicle may find even the extensive Mulliner catalog lacking.
Despite the existence of 17 billion potential GT configurations on paper, luxury buyers are on the lookout for design cues from Aston Martin, innovative technology from Jaguar, and a picnic setup more appealing than the $20,000 Viewing Suite option offered by Rolls-Royce’s Cullinan. Consequently, their attention often shifts towards the Speedback GT crafted by David Brown Automotive.
The latest unit, the 11th produced since 2014, is destined for Germany, complete with a bottle of Tanqueray gin, tonic, and highball glasses—only ice is needed for an optimal G&T experience.
Constructed on the aluminum foundation of the older Jaguar XKR model, the rear-wheel drive Speedback GT features a powerful 5.0-liter supercharged V8, boasting 601 horsepower. Its handcrafted assembly takes over 8,000 hours at the company’s Silverstone headquarters.
Now prepared for delivery, this uniquely tailored grand tourer for the German market showcases a Blue Moon exterior, a black satin mesh grille, Elm Burr satinwood accents, and a tan leather interior in “Tabak.” Additionally, the buyer selected 19-inch wire wheels for summer use, a complete winter kit, and notably, the drinks set neatly integrated into David Brown Automotive’s signature picnic seat.
On the day Bentley announced its production of the 80,000th GT, David Brown Automotive informed The Drive that their output ranges from three to five Speedback GTs annually, with all slots already booked for the remainder of 2021. While three to five may seem a bit on the high side—considering this blue edition is designated as the 11th completed in the last six years—the crucial factor remains the guarantee of exclusivity for each model.
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