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Grand Touring has a new definition. Now available as a coupe, a sedan, or a convertible, the 2007 Bentley Continental family is outstanding among Bentleys, today's luxury vehicles, and even today's supercars.A W12 engine employs twin turbos to produce 552 horsepower and 479 ft-lbs of torque at a mere 1, 600 rpm. This allows the coupe to rocket to 60 mph in only 4.7 seconds on its way to a 198-mph maximum speed. The GT convertible and the Flying Spur sedan are only slightly slower due to heavier curb weights. The six-speed automatic transmission can be partially controlled with paddle shifters, and it transmits this massive amount of energy to the pavement through all four 275/40R19 inch tires.Inside the Continental GT lineup you'll still find all the items that British gentlemen, Lotto winners, and Bentley aficionados have come to expect. The seats are wrapped in sumptuous leather. Carefully selected pieces of wood are still hand-crafted, but are now sliced into veneer by lasers. A Breitling analog clock sits prominently atop the dash centre, flanked by chrome air vents. And yes, the old "organ stops" still open and close these vents just as in days of yore.Everything about the interior speaks of class, comfort, and convenience. The instruments include a 210-mph speedometer, and the center stack has a modern GPS screen carefully integrated into its wood housing. The shift lever alone could be displayed as a work of art; the blending of aluminum, leather, and filigree is exquisite.The Continental GT accelerates in a way we have never experienced in any other vehicle. Previous turbo-charged Bentley's have also had massive amounts of torque, capable of launching these heavy motorcars right smartly. But the Continental GT's all-wheel drive, W12 engine configuration, enormous rubber and cozy dimensions combine to make every full-throttle departure an event that grabs your attention and refuses to let go. You can choose from four different ride settings, all of which produce a delightful balance between cosseting and setting you up for enjoying lateral g-forces in a breathtaking fashion.By adding 19.8 inches to the overall length of the coupe, Bentley has produced a four-door sedan of epic proportions. The Flying Spur's side profile may not be as distinct as its two-door sibling, but the Spur makes up for it by offering unparalleled interior appointments. Everything about the Flying Spur lends itself to superlatives. The extraordinarily comfortable front seats have more buttons and adjustments then you might think possible.The convertible edition of the highly-popular Bentley Continental GT looks stunning with the electric top up and drop-dead gorgeous with it lowered. A band of stainless steel frames the convertible's cockpit and sets off the luxurious materials within. The roof is constructed from three layers designed to offer the quietest ride of any convertible on the market. The single button operation takes only 25 seconds, and the top can be operated at speeds up to 20 mph.Pictures do not do any of the Continental models justice. In person, the proportions take on a life of their own, and help to make this car a work of art. The rear fender line disappears behind the massive door with delicacy.
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