2015 BENTLEY CONTINENTAL GT3-R

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Bentley has always produced cars for the sporting driver. It was the way the company was separated from former longtime partner Rolls-Royce: by its racing heritage. The company reverts to the history files from time to time with racing programs like their frequent trips to Le Mans, including the recent bid with the Speed 8 of 2001 to 2003, and lately, the Continental GT3 built for the Blancpain Endurance Series in Europe and the Pirelli World Challenge in the United States. In the vein of racing

on Sunday, selling on Monday, Bentley produced the road-going GT3-R, but in Bentley style it is not a GT3 with license plates with roll-cage and stripped-out interior, but more of a massaged GT V8S, inspired by the GT3. With a 51hp increase to 572hp and a little extra torque, this very limited-production factory custom was available to only 300 lucky recipients prepared to spend the $135,000 premium over a standard car. Over 200 pounds were shaved, primarily by the removal of the rear seat, titanium exhaust and a little extra use of carbon fiber. With new turbos and engine internals, and a few tweaks to the management systems, the 4,800-pound car will propel to 60 mph in just 3.6 seconds. Upgraded wheels, tires and ceramic brakes, as well as lower, tighter suspension pour feedback through the Alcantara-wrapped steering, transforming the car’s competence through the turns. The car offered here, in a very striking Beluga Black over Beluga Black interior offset by the green accents exclusive to the GT3-R, has been meticulously kept and enjoyed for just 883 actual miles since purchase. With its twin-turbo W12 engine is backed by an 8-speed automatic transmission, this GT3-R is a road-ready modern classic. From the Steve Todhunter Collection.