Bentley Continental GTC Speed

It shouldn't come as a surprise that the 2010 Bentley Continental GTC Speed is a nice automobile, as the Bentley name doesn't get slapped to just any old thing. In Bentley-speak, GTC refers to the convertible version of the Continental GT coupe. The Speed bit signifies that this Bentley is "Born of the same heart as the GTC, but with a different soul. Sportier. Overall, we'd have to say the 2010 GTC Speed is worth the extra cash over the "regular old" GTC.

Performance
Bentley's W12 also benefits from twin turbochargers, and the GTC Speed gets a tweaked version good for 600 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque (versus 552 and 479). It all adds up to a colossus of power that motivates this all-wheel-drive convertible from zero to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds, even though the 5,562-pound GTC Speed weighs as much as a Chevy Tahoe. The rear-biased all-wheel drive and adjustable suspension settings allow for more enthusiastic driving than you'd ever think possible. However, the GTC Speed never inspires you to treat it as anything other than an incredibly fast touring car.

Comfort
Lower the beautifully lined soft top, erect the folding wind deflector over the backseat, raise the windows and marvel at how little noise and air infiltrate the Bentley's cabin. With the top up, you'll be hard-pressed to find a quieter soft-top convertible.
The adjustable self-leveling air suspension constantly monitors ride height and damping depending on road conditions to provide the best ride possible.

Function
In grand British tradition, the Continental GTC Speed is ergonomically challenged, although it's actually the Germans' fault this time. The navigation system is almost unusable due to its dial-up processing speed, ancient graphics and cumbersome controls. As convertibles go, the GTC Speed's top-up visibility is good thanks to the large rear side windows.

Design/Fit and Finish
In our test car, supple diamond-quilted leather seats in Burnt Oak brown were accented with optional Magnolia tan border stitching.