The recently unveiled 2015 Bentley Mulsanne Speed can generate an impressive 811 pound-feet of torque, which makes it more powerful than a heavy-duty pickup truck.
Revealed ahead of the Paris Motor Show, the Mulsanne Speed is the more powerful version of the Mulsanne sedan, delivering 530 horsepower instead of 505. The 811 pound-feet of torque, produced by Bentley’s 6.75-litre V8 engine, puts this vehicle ahead of the Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD by 46 pound-feet of torque – at only 1,750 RPM. However, with a curb weight of over 7,000 pounds, this car probably wouldn’t be able to function without a powerful engine anyway.
The increased powertrain figures are a result of revisions to the valve timing and turbocharges, both of which contribute to making the combustion system more efficient. Surprisingly, the vehicle is more efficient overall, now getting 19.6 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 12.3 litres per 100 kilometres on the highway, for an overall efficiency increase of 13 per cent.
Bentley has also made revisions to the eight-speed automatic transmission by adding an “S” mode that keeps the car in peak boost while activated. There is also a “Sport” mode that solidifies the air suspension in an attempt to give the steering more feedback and accuracy.
Aside from offering a more impressive engine, the Mulsanne Speed distinguishes itself from its less powerful sibling by featuring darker grille parts, a different wheel pattern and “Speed” badging. The cabin also gets special piano black and carbon fiber inlays.
Bentley has not yet announced any pricing details for the exclusive Mulsanne, but the company does plan to start delivering the vehicle to dealerships this winter.
