The Bentley Continental R, produced from 1991 to 2003, is a two-door full-size luxury coupe that represents a significant chapter in Bentley's history. This model's name, "Continental R," echoes the prestige of the post-war Bentley Continental, renowned for its powerful engine and bespoke coachwork design. The Continental R marked a revival in Bentley's design language and performance ethos, combining modern engineering with classic luxury. It was notable for its superb handling characteristics despite its size and weight, often commended by road testers and journalists. Over its production span, Bentley released various revisions and special editions of the Continental R, each offering unique features and performance enhancements.
Total Production: 1,507 units Features Include: Engine: 6.75 L Garrett-turbocharged V8 engine, 8 cylinder 90-degree V-configuration | Cylinder Head: Aluminium-silicon alloy | Transmission: Initially a 3-speed automatic, transitioning to a 4-speed automatic from 1992 onwards | Fuel Injection: Bosch K Motronic fuel injection and digital ignition, later upgraded to the Zytek EMS3 engine management system in 1995 | Suspension: Independent front and rear suspension with automatic ride control | Height Control: Hydraulic self-levelling height control at the rear | Brakes: Front ventilated disc brakes and plain rear discs | Wheelbase: 3,061 mm (120.5 in) | Tyres: Initially 255/60ZR16, changing to 255/55WR17 in 1994, and 285/45R18 available on special request from 1996 | Additional Features: The car featured self-levelling hydraulic suspension with adaptive ride control and ventilated front disc brakes with twin calipers. The Continental R also introduced a center console-mounted electronic gear selector, a first for Rolls-Royce and Bentley at the time | Performance: Early models had an estimated power output of 325 hp, later increased to 385 hp with significant torque available from low revs.