Resurrecting a Legend: The Bentley Speed Six Continuation
Almost a century later, a legend returns. Bentley's renowned Speed Six, last seen 93 years ago, is getting a second life, scheduled to debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. But don't let the historical connotations fool you; this is more than a mere replica. As Bentley has already sold all 12 new iterations, a closer look at the reborn icon is surely in order.
The Rebirth of a Champion
Imagine reincarnation in the automotive realm, and you'll grasp the essence of a 'Continuation' car. Created using the same designs and processes of its original predecessor, the Continuation is Bentley’s tribute to its glorious past. The upcoming Speed Six Continuation is the second in the series after the Blower Continuation Series.
Ensuring the Speed Six Continuation's authenticity was no small task. Bentley painstakingly pieced together its original blueprint, using 80% of the drawings found via the WO Bentley Memorial Foundation and supplemented by mechanic’s notes and data taken from the 1930 Speed Six in the Bentley Heritage Collection. Bentley has not simply resurrected a car, but a slice of history, showcasing the efforts it took to make the Speed Six the champion of the 1930 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Under the Hood
Building this piece of the past required a staggering amount of craftsmanship and over 600 newly developed parts. Under the bonnet of the Speed Six Car Zero rests a fresh 6½-litre six-cylinder race spec engine. Initial testing showed that this engine delivers a promising 205 bhp at peak, a performance within touching distance of its illustrious ancestor.
Revisiting History with Modern Craftsmanship
The legacy isn't confined only to the engine and design; the Speed Six borrows several materials used in the Blower Continuation Series, including the trimmed elements. Speed Six Car Zero is clothed in Parsons Napier Green, one of five period-authentic paints discovered through the National Motor Museum's archives. Inside, you'll find a pristine tan leather interior, a testament to Bentley's commitment to quality and luxury.
Over the course of ten months, a team of dedicated Mulliner artisans crafted this modern classic. With a combination of time-tested and emerging talents, the car is a living testament to the past, present, and future of coachbuilding skills.
A History Worth Remembering
The original Speed Six carved a unique path in Bentley's racing history. With two Le Mans wins in 1929 and 1930, the car showcased W.O. Bentley’s philosophy of amplifying power by increasing engine capacity. The Speed Six was a more vigorous version of the 6½ Litre, resulting from several tweaks that elevated its power to 180 bhp. Today, Bentley honors this champion, reminding us of the marque's glory days.
Real World Test Awaits
The reincarnated Speed Six is no showpiece. Instead, it is set for a series of rigorous testing, including 35,000 kilometres of real-world driving and 8,000 kilometres of track driving. Bentley seeks to ensure that each of the 12 customer cars performs not just as an homage to the past, but as a car fit for the road today.
Conclusion: A Nod to the Past, A Step Toward the Future
Bentley’s new Speed Six Continuation is more than a revisitation of a racing legend. It's an intersection where meticulous craftsmanship meets historical authenticity, all built under the stringent requirements of today’s motoring standards. It's not just a revival of an icon; it's a nod to the past, a tribute to Bentley’s glorious heritage, and a testament to the unwavering pursuit of automotive excellence.
-Ed
2024 Bentley Speed Six Continuation
