Press Release
Engine
Supercar performance from Crewe??????????????????????????????????????s most powerful V8
Such is the robustness of the engine??????????????????????????????????????s architecture, the Crewe-built V8 engine has been at the heart of all large Bentley coupes for nearly 50 years.
In 2007, the Bentley 6 ????????????????????-litre, twin-turbocharged V8 saw a step-change in performance with a comprehensive range of enhancements for both Arnage and Azure. These included a more efficient and refined valve-train, re-profiled camshafts and more responsive, low-inertia turbochargers. These were complemented by a new six-speed transmission with semi-automatic function and Bosch engine management system.
For the Arnage T, power increased to 500bhp with 1000Nm of torque. The changes also enhanced refinement, improved durability and ensured compliance with the demanding European EU IV and US LEV II emissions standards. This engine represented the starting point for the new Bentley Brooklands coupe.
For Brooklands, Bentley??????????????????????????????????????s engineers have introduced a new free-flowing air induction system and a sports exhaust, together with a re-calibration of the valve-timing and engine management system. The result is record power from this hand-assembled 6 ????????????????????-litre V8 engine of 530bhp (395kW) at 4000 rev/min and an astonishing 1050Nm (774lb ft) of torque at 3250 rev/min ??????????????????????????????????????? the highest-ever torque of any V8 automotive engine in the world.
Brian Gush, Director, Chassis and Powertrain explains the philosophy behind the record outputs:
???????????????????????????????????Our prime objective was to unlock the power potential of the amazingly flexible V8, allowing it to breathe more efficiently.????????????????????????????????
The new engine endows the Brookland??????????????????????????????????????s with true supercar performance, accelerating to 60mph in just 5.0 seconds (0-100km/h in 5.3 seconds) on its way to a top speed of 184mph ( 296 km/h). In-gear acceleration times are also greatly enhanced, with the coupe capable of accelerating from 50 to 70mph in 2.4 seconds (80-120km/h in 3.1 seconds).
That instantaneous acceleration is recognisable from the driver??????????????????????????????????????s seat as the renowned Bentley ?????????????????????????????????wave of torque?????????????????????????????????????? and is due in part to the V8 engine??????????????????????????????????????s new twin turbochargers which operate with far greater efficiency at lower engine speeds, significantly reducing lag.
The V8 engine is mated to a six-speed transmission with locking torque converter that provides an instantaneous response to the driver??????????????????????????????????????s demands. A semi-automatic function allows manual gear selection for even greater driver control and, when driven to its potential, means stronger and faster acceleration in every gear.
