The first `Continental GT` changed Bentley's modern history. It brought strong design, a `W12 biturbo`, all-wheel drive and, above all, the production capacity that finally pushed the brand into another dimension. The coupe remains very heavy and very luxurious, but it also offers cruising speed and ease of use that older Bentleys simply never had. It is far more a grand tourer than a direct answer to a lightweight sports car.
Its real rival is closer to a powerful Maserati GranTurismo than to anything built for track days. The `Continental GT` wants to crush time and distance, not mimic the feel of a small rear-drive coupe. When healthy, the combination of `W12`, `ZF` automatic gearbox, all-wheel drive and air suspension creates a very distinctive sense of endless thrust. When tired, everything turns heavy at once: steering, braking, ride quality and even the general atmosphere.