Bentley Supersports: The Lightest Bentley Since 1941
The new Bentley Supersports is powered by an extensively upgraded version of the automaker’s 4.0-liter V8 engine. Its mechanical improvements include a strengthened engine block, a redesigned cylinder head, and a larger turbocharger. Bentley also adds a dual-mass flywheel, while retaining the engine’s wet-sump lubrication system.
With 657 horsepower (490 kW) and 590 lb-ft (800 Nm) of torque, the Bentley Supersports is not the most powerful model in the brand’s history. However, its lower weight, enhanced aerodynamics, and track-focused chassis could make it one of Bentley’s most engaging cars to drive.
Both the front and rear axles feature 48-volt active anti-roll bars. These systems can react in just one-third of a second and deliver up to 960 lb-ft (1,300 Nm) of reactive torque, helping keep the car level through corners. Bentley has also retuned the twin-valve dampers and air suspension for the Touring, Bentley, and Sport driving modes. With optional Pirelli Trofeo RS tires fitted, the Supersports can generate up to 1.3 g of cornering force.
As the Bentley Supersports enters Laguna Seca’s famous Corkscrew corner—which is scheduled to be renamed the “Zanardi Corkscrew” next weekend—the car appears well suited to the challenge. The carbon-fiber roof helps lower the center of gravity, although its effect is less noticeable from inside the cockpit. More obvious are the aerodynamic upgrades, including the front splitter, wheel-mounted winglets, large rear carbon-fiber spoiler, and underbody diffuser.
The aerodynamic package is designed to deliver a substantial performance advantage. Bentley says the Supersports generates at least 661 pounds (300 kg) more downforce than the Continental GT Speed it reviewed last year. The aerodynamic balance is also calibrated to shift rearward as speed and downforce increase, starting from a 54:46 front-to-rear distribution.
Front dive plane and carbon-fiber winglets.
Bentley
Bentley
The Bentley Supersports features a prominent carbon-fiber rear spoiler.
Bentley
Bentley
The Supersports’ V8 engine remains partially visible beneath its cover.
Bentley
The Bentley Supersports features a prominent carbon-fiber rear spoiler.
Bentley
The Supersports’ V8 engine remains partially visible beneath its cover.
Bentley
The Supersports’ track-focused character is also evident from the driver’s seat. Although the cabin uses large amounts of carbon fiber, its two sport seats remain comfortable and offer extensive power adjustment. They hold occupants securely when the car is driven over a crest, turned into an apex, or pushed through Laguna Seca’s Corkscrew.
The car’s carbon-ceramic braking system and suspension tuning also allow drivers to attack curbs without feeling overly compromised. At a curb weight of less than 4,407 pounds (1,999 kg), the Bentley Supersports is still a substantial vehicle—but it is the lightest Bentley produced in 85 years. That achievement makes its high-speed stability and cornering performance even more impressive.
Source: arstechnica.com