Bentley Speed Edition 12: A Limited Edition Tribute to the Iconic W12 Engine
June 23 2023,
Marking a fitting tribute to Bentley's iconic W12 engine, the automaker has unveiled its Speed Edition 12. This limited-edition series celebrates the W12 engine, which has been the powertrain backbone for the marque's flagship models since 2003. This farewell to the most successful 12-cylinder engine of the modern era comprises of four models based on the Bentayga, Flying Spur, Continental GT, and Continental GT Convertible.
Each model in the Speed Edition 12 series will have a production limit of 120 units, making these vehicles an incredibly rare and valued tribute to an engine that has driven the company's cars and fortunes for two decades. The W12 engine came into the picture in 2003, marking a new era for Bentley as the Continental GT's powertrain. The W12's unique W-formation made it 24% shorter than an equivalent V12, thereby improving power, efficiency, and refinement without any compromises.
In the Speed Edition 12 models, the Bentley W12 engine's continuous evolution is evident with a 37% power increase, a 54% increase in torque, and a 25% emissions reduction. These models' W12 now delivers up to 650 hp, with a peak torque of 664 lb-ft reached at 1500 rpm and sustained through to 5000 rpm.
The external features of the Speed Edition 12 are subtly designed, yet the vehicles' uniqueness is instantly recognizable. Among the notable features are the silver brake calipers, which are exclusively for these models. Edition 12 badges adorn various areas of the vehicles, along with the 22" black painted Speed alloy wheels and Blackline specification exterior brightware. An optional Opalite paint finish gives an iridescent copper effect in bright sunlight.
The Speed Edition 12's interior showcases Bentley's fine craftsmanship. With seats featuring Mulliner Silver piping and embroidered Edition 12 namestyle, a high gloss Grand Black veneer, and organ stop air vents featuring the numeral ‘12’, the attention to detail is stunning. Additionally, owners will receive a 15% scale model of the Bentley W12 block as a commemorative artefact, embodying the very essence of Bentley's engineering prowess.
This series reflects the end of an era with the W12 engine's production coming to a halt in April 2024, but it serves as a timeless tribute to an extraordinary engineering accomplishment that has powered over 100,000 units.
