Bentley Continental Supersports Convertible
Last year, Bentley was showing the Continental Supersports, the most powerful Bentley ever, here at the Geneva Motor Show. This year it's showing the soft-top version, the Bentley Continental Supersports Convertible.
With the same 630-horsepower turbocharged W12 engine and a 202 mph top speed (roof up, of course), the Continental Supersports Convertible is the fastest open-top Bentley ever built, able to rocket from zero to 60 mph in 3.9 seconds.
Like the coupe, the drop-top is also able to run on both biofuel and gasoline. This FlexFuel system allows the convertible to automatically adjust according to the fuel used, and when E85 is used, there is no perceptible reduction in power or performance.
Indeed, the FlexFuel system is being rolled out across the Continental range as part of 2011 model year revisions. Using its preferred "well to wheel" measurement, Bentley claims an impressive-sounding potential 70 percent reduction in CO2 emissions.
The cut in greenhouse gas emissions - the measurement legislators have chosen to gauge the environmental impact of cars - is less significant, with the Supersports Convertible still emitting 388g/km with combined fuel economy of 17 mpg. Arguing an eco-case for luxurious, 200 mph cars is always going to be hard.
Green politics aside, the Continental Supersports Convertible is certainly one mean-looking piece of kit. Peering inside the cabin reveals four pleated leather seats rather than the mere two of the coupe version.
You still get the carbon-fiber-backed race seats up front, a 50-millimeter increase in track, more relaxed ESP system and revised gearshift software for faster shifts. It's also equipped with ceramic brake discs and bespoke Supersports styling upgrades.
Elsewhere, Bentley is showing a matte paint finish for the Supersports coupe. It looks amazing, feels delectable and, yes, costs an eye-watering $29,900 premium.
