The Bentley Continental and Flying Spur are two of the most luxurious and high-performance vehicles produced by Bentley Motors. While both models share a lineage of exceptional craftsmanship and performance, they cater to different preferences and driving experiences. The Continental is primarily a sporty coupe or convertible, while the Flying Spur is designed as a luxurious sedan. This article delves into the key differences between these two iconic models, including their design, performance, interior features, technology, and pricing.
| Feature | Bentley Continental |
|---|---|
| Body Style | Coupe/Convertible |
| Engine Options | V8, W12 |
| Seating Capacity | 4 Seats |
| Performance Focus | Sporty Driving Experience |
| Price Range | $269,535 – $408,760 |
| Feature | Bentley Flying Spur |
|---|---|
| Body Style | Sedan |
| Engine Options | V8, W12, Hybrid |
| Seating Capacity | 4-5 Seats |
| Performance Focus | Luxury and Comfort |
| Price Range | $254,463 – $372,836 |
Design and Aesthetics
The design of the Bentley Continental emphasizes its sporty nature. It features a sleek silhouette with flowing lines and a low stance that enhances its aerodynamics. The front end is characterized by the iconic Bentley grille flanked by elliptical headlights. This design not only contributes to its aesthetic appeal but also to its performance capabilities.
In contrast, the Flying Spur embodies a more traditional luxury sedan look. It has a longer wheelbase and a more upright stance compared to the Continental. The Flying Spur’s design focuses on elegance and presence, showcasing a bold front grille and sophisticated LED lighting. Its muscular rear haunches offer a sense of power while maintaining an air of sophistication.
Both vehicles are customizable with a wide range of paint colors, interior materials, and finishes to suit individual tastes. However, the Continental leans towards a sportier aesthetic while the Flying Spur emphasizes luxury.
Performance and Engine Specifications
When it comes to performance, the Bentley Continental is available with multiple engine options, including powerful V8 and W12 configurations. The V8 engine produces around 542 horsepower, while the W12 engine can generate up to 626 horsepower. This allows the Continental to achieve impressive acceleration times, making it suitable for those who seek an exhilarating driving experience.
On the other hand, the Flying Spur also offers robust engine options but includes a hybrid variant in addition to its V8 and W12 engines. The hybrid model combines a petrol engine with an electric motor for enhanced efficiency without compromising power. The Flying Spur’s engines deliver up to 626 horsepower, similar to the top-tier Continental models. However, its primary focus is on providing a smooth and comfortable ride rather than outright sportiness.
Performance Comparison Table
| Model | Engine Type | Horsepower | Torque (lb-ft) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bentley Continental V8 | 4.0L V8 Twin-Turbo | 542 hp | 568 lb-ft |
| Bentley Continental W12 | 6.0L W12 Twin-Turbo | 626 hp | 664 lb-ft |
| Bentley Flying Spur V8 | 4.0L V8 Twin-Turbo | 542 hp | 568 lb-ft |
| Bentley Flying Spur W12 | 6.0L W12 Twin-Turbo | 626 hp | 664 lb-ft |
| Bentley Flying Spur Hybrid | PHEV (Petrol + Electric) | Total: ~536 hp (combined) | N/A |
Interior Features and Comfort
The interiors of both models reflect Bentley’s commitment to luxury and craftsmanship. The Continental features richly upholstered leather seats with various customization options for materials and colors. Its cabin is designed for sportiness with driver-focused controls and advanced technology integration.
In contrast, the Flying Spur offers an even more spacious interior aimed at comfort for all passengers. It typically seats up to five people comfortably with ample legroom in both front and rear seats. The materials used in the Flying Spur’s interior are top-tier, often featuring hand-stitched leather, polished wood veneers, and metal accents that enhance its luxurious feel.
Both models come equipped with advanced infotainment systems featuring touchscreen displays, premium sound systems, and connectivity options that cater to modern drivers’ needs.
Technology and Safety Features
In terms of technology, both vehicles are equipped with cutting-edge features that enhance driving experience and safety. The Continental includes Bentley’s rotating display system that allows drivers to switch between analog dials and digital displays seamlessly.
The Flying Spur, on the other hand, incorporates additional safety technologies such as advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and night vision capabilities. These features make it particularly appealing for those who prioritize safety in their luxury vehicle.
Technology Comparison Table
Total Safety Features:
10+
15+
Bentley Continental generally starts at around
$269,535
for base models and can go up significantly depending on customization options. The
Flying Spur
, being a sedan focused on luxury rather than sportiness, starts at approximately
$254,463
, making it slightly more accessible than its Continental counterpart while still offering unparalleled luxury. ### Pricing Comparison Table
| Feature Category | Bentley Continental GT | Bentley Flying Spur |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment System | Bentley Rotating Display with Touchscreen Capability | Bentley Rotating Display with Touchscreen Capability+ |
| Safety Features | Basic ADAS Features Available (e.g., Parking Sensors) (e.g., Adaptive Cruise Control) (e.g., Lane Assist) (e.g., Night Vision) (e.g., Traffic Sign Recognition) (e.g., City Assist) (e.g., Advanced Night Vision) (e.g., Head-Up Display) (e.g., Parking Assist) (e.g., Collision Warning) (e.g., Emergency Braking) (e.g., Blind Spot Monitoring) (e.g., Surround View Camera) (e.g., Cross Traffic Alert) (e.g., Rear Cross Traffic Alert) (e.g., Automatic Emergency Braking) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) | |
| Model Type & Trim Level | Starting Price (USD) |
|---|
FAQs About Bentley Continental And Flying Spur
- What is the main difference between the Bentley Continental and Flying Spur?
The main difference lies in their body styles; the Continental is a sporty coupe or convertible while the Flying Spur is a luxurious sedan. - Which model offers better performance?
The Bentley Continental generally offers better performance due to its sportier design and engine options. - Are both models customizable?
Yes, both models offer extensive customization options for interior materials, colors, and features. - Which car has more seating capacity?
The Bentley Flying Spur typically has more seating capacity as it can accommodate up to five passengers comfortably. - How do their prices compare?
The Bentley Flying Spur is generally priced slightly lower than the Bentley Continental.
In conclusion, both the Bentley Continental and Flying Spur represent the pinnacle of luxury automotive engineering but cater to different preferences—sportiness versus comfort. Choosing between them ultimately depends on individual needs regarding performance versus luxury experience.