Our trip takes us through a selection of narrow routes, leading to the ultimate test for such an amazing vehicle – the Trolligsten Mountain Road.
Tucked away in the mountains off the western coast of Norway, this dramatic stretch is notorious for its twisting hairpins. Cornering is effortless, and we put the Continental through its paces, utilising the large vented brake discs to bring this machine back under control as we climbed through the mountains. We rose to 858 metres above sea level, a real test for the Continental’s handling.
At the end of the first part of our trip, we find ourselves in the village of Angvik, and in a small restaurant overlooking the Tingvoll Fjord. After a light lunch, it was then time to experience the Bentley W12 GT on a stretch of closed road. It brings credentials similar to that of the GT Speed Convertible, with an equally exciting 0-60 in 4.3 seconds, a top speed of 198 mph and 590 PS to hand.
Just as I thought my adrenalin had eased, we were off again. Really, the cornering of this vehicle is immense. As you ease your foot down on the accelerator, the car thrusts itself through the air like a tornado, growling all the way.
Upon stamping on the brake when you negotiate a bend, you are thrown into the seat belts and are almost winded by its intensity… I want one!
Our last change and the vehicle which we would use to drive the Atlantic Road was the GT V8 S Convertible. It featured an exterior in Jetstream paint – a light blue colour, and 21-inch 10-spoke propeller styled polished alloy wheels. The 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing 528 PS and a 0-60 time of 4.5 seconds, still performs extraordinarily well, despite the reduced capacity. This model will certainly not disappoint.
The Atlantic Road is located between the towns of Molde and Kristiansund, considered to be one of the finest driving routes in the world. It is made up of a selection of sharp turns and zigzags which link the two towns, and stretches across Norway’s northern islands.
The Bentley Continental GT is just the most beautiful of cars, comfortable at low speeds, and inspiring at high velocity. There really isn’t a more fitting place to drive such an amazing vehicle.
Driving the Continental GT on the Atlantic Road is a truly breath-taking experience that can be enjoyed at cruising speed. You can absorb the stunning interior of the Bentley, the classic styling of the dash, and push-pull levers for the air vents which retain the history of original models.
We take time to admire the endless views of the coastline, and position the car for a perfect picture opportunity. The Bentley range completes a space in the motor industry unique to itself, really a niche product.
Arriving back at Kristiansund Airport was a true disappointment – it meant handing the keys back to Bentley. If you are undecided on a supercar or a luxury four-seater, why not have both? With such a large selection of Bentley Continental GT models on offer, there really is one to suit your wildest of dreams.
Bentley Continental Lineup Information
To view the current lineup of Bentley Continental GT models with full specifications and pricing, visit the official company site here: www.bentleymotors.com
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