Bentley From the original 3 Litre to the current Continental GT and Mulsanne

Bentley GT Speed Coupe or Base

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Old 10-07-2015 | 05:06 PM
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Bentley GT Speed Coupe or Base

Is there a substantial difference in the Speed vs Base in real world experience? Looking at an 09/10 MY. Thanks!
 
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Old 10-08-2015 | 05:58 AM
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Real-world being adhering to USA traffic laws, then not really other than interior/visual differences. You can always get a Base model and flash the engine mgt ($4000) if you think you want more power than the stock Speed produces. Being that you're in Chicago with potholed roads, the stiffer suspension of the Speed could actually be a detriment versus the slightly softer base version. Note that both models have in-cabin adjustable suspension stiffness settings, yet the Speed starts out with harder suspension.


Basically, there is no "substantial" difference between the two imho. Only substantial thing would be flashing the engine mgt of the base version and then you're producing far more power than the stock Speed version. Had a base 06 GT and base 07 GTC here and have not felt the need for more engine power as these are extremely heavy grand touring cars and not agile racers or track cars. Since you're looking at a Bentley and not a McLaren or Ferrari, odds are you want comfort with good power engine so the base model should be fine, especially considering Chicago roads.


One suggestion I would recommend no matter which model you choose is to swap the lackluster stock Pirelli P Zero tires for Michelin Super Sport.
 
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Old 10-08-2015 | 10:49 PM
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Besides the HP increase, Speed cars are typically better optioned and a lot of Speed cars I saw had the Mulliner driving spec, which gives you a nicer interior.

Speed also has nicer looking wheels and slightly lower ride height (looks better)
 
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Old 10-23-2015 | 06:44 AM
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Thanks everyone for the input! I put a deposit down on a base last night. ek1 I made sure it had the Mulliner option as well
 
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Old 10-23-2015 | 06:47 AM
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Originally Posted by stevenrmusic
Real-world being adhering to USA traffic laws, then not really other than interior/visual differences. You can always get a Base model and flash the engine mgt ($4000) if you think you want more power than the stock Speed produces. Being that you're in Chicago with potholed roads, the stiffer suspension of the Speed could actually be a detriment versus the slightly softer base version. Note that both models have in-cabin adjustable suspension stiffness settings, yet the Speed starts out with harder suspension.


Basically, there is no "substantial" difference between the two imho. Only substantial thing would be flashing the engine mgt of the base version and then you're producing far more power than the stock Speed version. Had a base 06 GT and base 07 GTC here and have not felt the need for more engine power as these are extremely heavy grand touring cars and not agile racers or track cars. Since you're looking at a Bentley and not a McLaren or Ferrari, odds are you want comfort with good power engine so the base model should be fine, especially considering Chicago roads.


One suggestion I would recommend no matter which model you choose is to swap the lackluster stock Pirelli P Zero tires for Michelin Super Sport.
Your point was a good one, this will be my daily cruiser. If I want sportier I have a V8V as well.

Any recommendation for a winter tire?
 
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Old 10-23-2015 | 08:07 AM
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I used Blizzak LM60 and they were great. Even in thick/deep snow they rocked! I think the recent/new Pirelli or some such are now said to be #1 on TireRack, so check their site.
 
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Old 10-23-2015 | 10:52 PM
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do not hesitate, I'm using the Pirelli Scorpion Ice & Snow since years on various car and they are the best.
like any snow tyres you will find them noticeably noisier than the summer tyres but their grip, even at high speed and under the rain, is impressive.
 
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Old 10-25-2015 | 05:04 AM
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Thanks guys for the input! Will post up pics of the car when I take delivery
 
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