2010 Bentley Continental Supersports

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For the Continental Supersports, Bentley engineers have created the most powerful engine in the company's 90-year history.

Bentley's renowned 6-liter, twin-turbocharged W12 now develops 621 hp at 6000 RPM, an increase of 3.5 per cent compared with the Continental GT Speed. Maximum torque of 590 lb-ft, up by 6.7 per cent, is achieved from 1700 RPM across virtually the entire rev range for effortless power delivery.

The extra power and torque resulting from the increased turbocharger boost necessitated a 10 per cent increase in air flow to the intercoolers and radiators following an extensive program of Computational Fluid Dynamics.

Dramatically-styled front air intakes feed the intercoolers behind, while twin bonnet vents ensure positive extraction of hot air above the engine.

These changes also help to increase downforce at the front, balanced by the addition of a re-profiled spoiler on the rear aerofoil with a raised rear edge.

The new 'Quickshift' version of the six-speed ZF 6HP26 automatic transmission is engineered exclusively for the Continental Supersports. Shift time has been cut by 50 per cent and the revised transmission also helps double downshifts (e.g. 6th down to 4th).

During upshifts, fuel and ignition are cut momentarily to give faster mechanical shift times through torque reduction, also improving shift quality and durability. Positive torque during downshifts is achieved through engine and gearbox electronic controller interaction for extra throttle and fuel injection during the overrun. This replicates manual throttle 'blips' for precise rev matching and helps double downshifts for enhanced response.

Bentley Continental Supersports: Review (2/2)