Yahoo Autos Bentley Speed Six Continuation Series Enters Production
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Bentley Motors has announced the commencement of production for its highly anticipated Speed Six continuation series, reviving a design that made its debut over ninety years ago. This exclusive series, limited to only twelve units—all of which have already found buyers—marks a significant milestone in the luxury automaker's history. Crafted by Bentley's Mulliner division with meticulous attention to historical accuracy, the construction of each vehicle is estimated to take around ten months.
The project sees Bentley collaborating with external suppliers to utilize period-correct materials and methods. Significant efforts include the commissioning of specialized tooling for pressing the Speed Six's steel frame rails and crossmembers, a process spanning six months. The vehicles boast a chassis adorned with handmade ash wood bodywork, complemented by components like headlights, radiators, and fuel tanks crafted by restoration experts.
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Under the hood, the continuation Speed Sixes are powered by a recreated 6.5-liter inline-six engine, generating 205 horsepower—a testament to the engineering prowess of its era, slightly enhanced with modern precision while maintaining fidelity to the original specifications.
The Speed Six is celebrated for cementing Bentley's racing legend, clinching victories at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1928 and 1930 and achieving an iconic win in Wold Barnato's race against a train across France. Drawing inspiration from two original Speed Six models, including the famed "Old Number 3," the 1930 Le Mans champion, Bentley has infused these continuation cars with improvements made for the historic races, ensuring their performance is as legendary as their predecessors.
The Speed Six continuation project, following the success of the Bentley Blower series, underwent rigorous testing, including 40 hours of engine trials, over 6,000 miles of durability assessments, and a top speed achievement of 112 mph, showcasing Bentley's commitment to honoring its rich heritage while pushing the boundaries of classic car restoration and performance.
