Bentley Continental GT W12 Supersports
The Bentley Continental GT Supersports, introduced in 2009, was the most extreme iteration of the first-generation Continental GT. As the fastest and most powerful Bentley road car ever produced at that time, it demonstrated that Crewe could build a grand touring car of genuine supercar-baiting performance while retaining the luxury and presence that defined the brand.
The twin-turbocharged W12 engine was uprated to produce 621 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque, improvements achieved through revised turbocharger calibration, enhanced intercooling, and optimized engine management. The engine was also rated for flex-fuel operation, capable of running on E85 bioethanol without modification — a nod to environmental responsibility that was ahead of its time.
Weight reduction was pursued aggressively by Bentley standards. Carbon fiber body panels replaced steel for the bonnet, bumpers, and other components, saving approximately 110 kg. Carbon ceramic brakes, a first for Bentley, saved a further 20 kg of unsprung weight while providing fade-free stopping power. The interior featured carbon fiber trim and lightweight sports seats.
The chassis was recalibrated with stiffer springs, firmer dampers, and revised air suspension settings. The all-wheel-drive system featured a 40:60 front-to-rear torque split (compared to 50:50 in the standard GT), sending more power to the rear wheels for a more engaging handling balance. The stability control system offered a more permissive Sport mode.
Performance was remarkable for a car weighing over 2,200 kg. The Supersports could reach 204 mph and accelerate to 60 mph in 3.7 seconds, figures that placed it firmly in supercar territory. The W12 engine's character was unique — a combination of irresistible low-end torque and sustained high-rpm power delivery accompanied by a distinctive mechanical growl.
Just 710 Supersports coupes were produced (plus additional convertibles), making it one of the rarest Continental GTs. The car was praised by the motoring press for combining extraordinary performance with the refinement and luxury that buyers expected from a Bentley. It proved that the Continental GT concept could be extended to genuine performance car territory without compromising the brand's core values.
Carbon ceramic brakes are extremely expensive to replace; check pad and disc condition. The W12 engine is generally reliable but requires regular servicing; check for turbocharger boost leaks and intercooler condition. The air suspension system should be checked for leaks and proper operation. Carbon fiber body panels are expensive to repair. The ZF 6-speed gearbox should shift smoothly. Service history from a Bentley dealer is essential. The Supersports specification should be verified through Bentley's VIN decoder.
Produced at Crewe from 2009 to 2012. Approximately 710 coupes and additional convertible (ISR) models were built. The Ice Speed Record (ISR) convertible variant set a speed record on ice in Finland. The Supersports was the fastest Bentley ever produced at that time.