New Bentley Continental GT3 race car unveiled

    The track-focused Continental GT3 weighs nearly 1,000kg less than the road-going version and is powered by a 550hp V8 engine.

    Published On Nov 19, 2017 07:00:00 AM

    8,941 Views

    Bentley has taken the wraps off its new Continental GT3 race car. The new track-ready model previews hot Continental GT road car that is likely arrive by 2020.

    Under the bonnet, the GT3 is powered by the same 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 found in the Continental GT V8 though it produces 550hp when not restricted to GT3 guidelines. The previous GT3 used a tuned version of the same engine with more power but it also weighed more. Bentley has collaborated with BMW’s M-Sport for this model.

    The GT3’s kerb weight has decreased by about 950kg with Bentley claiming a total weight of less than 1,300kg. Compared to the road-going W12 car’s 2250kg, this is a massive decrease.

    It features far more aggressive bodywork than the Continental GT including a deep front spoiler, wide wheel arches, aerodynamic fins and a huge rear wing. Each part has been optimised for aerodynamics and downforce and are lighter than the standard car's respective components.

    In the cabin, the GT3 gets a FIA-spec roll-cage and six-point harness, while mechanical upgrades include a lightweight racing battery, race-spec ABS and traction control, a carbon-fibre propshaft and four-way adjustable racing dampers.

    Bentley hopes that the Continental GT3 will help the manufacturer claim victory in the Blancpain GT Series after it has become available to buyers in June 2018. The model will make its racing debut at the opening round of the 2018 Blancpain Cup at Monza on April 21, 2018.

    Bentley Cars

    Copyright (c) Autocar UK. All rights reserved.

    Comments

    ×
    img

    No comments yet. Be the first to comment.

    Ask Autocar Anything about Car and Bike Buying and Maintenance Advices
    Need an expert opinion on your car and bike related queries?
    Ask Now

    Search By Car Price

    Poll of the month

    The Creta will be the third Hyundai N-Line model in India. Should more mass-market brands have sporty sub-brands?

    Yes, it's something special for enthusiasts

     

    18.49%

    Yes, but only if there is increased performance

     

    44.28%

    No, it's just a gimmick to increase the price

     

    29.35%

    It doesn't always work; just look at Tata JTP

     

    7.89%

    Total Votes : 1547
    Sign up for our newsletter

    Get all the latest updates from the automobile universe