2013 Bentley Continental GT Speed Convertible: First Look

Competes with: Rolls-Royce Ghost, Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG
Looks like: The “world’s fastest coupe” has some convertible company
Drivetrain: 616-horsepower, twin-turbocharged 6.0-liter W-12 and eight-speed automatic
Hits dealerships: TBD

Bentley is claiming the title of “world’s fastest convertible” for the drop-top version of its Continental GT Speed; the convertible joins the lineup for 2013.

The British automaker is putting some impressive numbers behind its claim. Power comes from the coupe version’s 616-horsepower, twin-turbocharged 6.0-liter W-12 paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The coupe model’s new twin-turbo V-8 isn’t available on the convertible.

Bentley claims a top speed of 202 mph and a zero to 60 mph time of 4.1 seconds. A Sport mode delivers sharper throttle response and alters shift points, according to the automaker.

Like its GT Speed coupe sibling, the soft-top convertible wears the same distinctive front end with four circular lights and a dark mesh-style grille that drops over the front bumper. The rear end features prominent flared fenders, twin oval exhaust tips and chrome-accented tail lamps. It rides on model-specific 21-inch silver or dark-tint alloy wheels.

Inside, the seats and surfaces are swathed in diamond-quilted leather, and shoppers can choose between aluminum or carbon fiber trim and accent it with several types of wood trim.

This range-topping Bentley won’t be cheap. Official pricing hasn’t been announced yet, but coupe versions of the 2013 Continental GT Speed start at $217,725, including a $2,725 destination fee. We’ll know more about the car after its debut on Jan. 14 at the 2013 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

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