Bentley Continental GTC

Anti-utilitarian excess comes roaring back with this modern-day classic

By Katherine K. Buxton

It’s been said that there was only one way to make the Bentley Continental GT better. Enter the Continental GTC—the drop-top version of Bentley's highly acclaimed coupe, which has been touted as the most beautiful car in the world. Both have the same length and width dimensions, although, as a Forbes Autos review notes, “Chopping the roof off of the Continental GT coupe somehow improves the aesthetic, making the GTC look longer and more elegant than its hardtop twin.” Not only does this two-door, two-plus-two seat convertible enhance the sleek lines of the GT, it also offers drivers a chance to soak up some vitamin D.

Borrowing more than just looks from its sporty sibling, the GTC is graced with the same 6-litre, 12-cylinder, turbocharged engine. Translation: That’s enough power to go from standstill to 60 miles an hour in less than five seconds. A few seconds more and you'll reach top speed—190 miles per hour in top-down mode, jumping to 195 mph with the top up.

Perhaps the more important question: How long does it take to go from top-up to top-down? Less than 25 seconds with the mere push of a button. Bentley’s engineers redesigned the rear suspension, creating plenty of storage space for the multi-layer fabric top without claiming any trunk room or bulging with an unsightly bump. “The result,” as Karl Brauer, editor of Edmunds.com, says, “is an exceptionally clean appearance when the top is stowed, a look accentuated by the strip of polished stainless steel that encircles the cabin and runs along the windshield.”

Although boos might ensue, it must be said that the GTC has a six-speed automatic transmission. There is, however, a “sport” mode as well as a full manual shifting option by way of the steering-wheel-mounted paddles. The convertible also features continuous all-wheel drive and independent, automatic air suspension that constantly monitors road conditions and adjusts accordingly.

For a base price of $189,990, Bentley got it right—supercar performance with the luxury you’ve come to expect from the name. And all this is crowned by the famed winged “B” on its bonnet.

Specs:
Specifications Two-door, 2+2-passenger soft-top convertible
Base price: $189,990
Powertrain: 6.0-litre, 552-hp, aluminum block/heads, DOHC, 48-valve, twin-turbo-charged W12 with variable valve timing, six-speed automatic transmission with manu-matic paddle shifting, all-wheel drive
Torque: 479 lb-ft @ 1,600 rpm
0-60: 4.8 seconds
Top speed: 195 mph (190 mph with top down)
Fuel economy: 12/18 mpg city/highway