You know it means business when Bentley adds 'Speed' to the already-evocative Flying Spur. The statement is more than just the pinnacle of automotive performance; it is a testament to the art of sculpting fine grand tourers. This ‘wolf in sheep’s clothing’ commands attention (and presence) with its exquisitely handcrafted interior, understated yet undeniably powerful exterior, and a heart that beats at 600 horsepower. With a beefy 6-liter twin-turbo W12, the Flying Spur Speed makes a standing 60-mph run possible in a symphonic 4.3 seconds, which may not be as impressive as its 200-mph top speed. Of course, the 2013 Bentley Continental Flying Spur Speed is incomplete without an astronomical pricing structure, with figures starting north of $200,000 before options. In the world of pre-owned luxury saloons, however, the Flying Spur Speed offers a glimmer of hope, with well-kept pristine examples fetching as much as $50,000, while some examples can be seen exchanging hands for as low as $39,000.
The name 'Flying Spur' has been integral to Bentley's history, tracing its roots back to 1958 when Bentley introduced the S1 Continental Flying Spur. Originally intended as a four-door sedan alternative to the (two-door) Continental coupe, the S1 offered the exhilarating performance of its sibling while seating two additional passengers. Still, after a period of dormancy, the Flying Spur nameplate was revived in 2005 with the launch of the first-generation Bentley Continental Flying Spur at the Geneva Motor Show – now under the new Volkswagen Group management. Carrying forward a similar performance-oriented philosophy, the first-generation Flying Spur offered a four-door sanctuary alternative to the sleek Continental Coupe. More importantly, with a monstrous 6-liter biturbo W12 outputting a screaming 552 horsepower, the Flying Spur solidified its position as the world’s fastest, most potent four-door sedan at the time. Also, with first-year deliveries exceeding 4,000 orders, the very idea of a mindbogglingly-fast luxury saloon seemed quite successful. However, Bentley raised the bar yet again, queuing for the ‘Speed’ variants of the Continental Flying Spur. Sporting a discreet, quite subtle makeover and an even more vigorous Biturbo W12, the Flying Spur Speed became the quintessence of Bentley's philosophy – fast, opulent, and simply effortless.
Underneath a sleekly styled hood lies a mighty 6-liter twin-turbo W12 engine that pumps out a formidable 602 horsepower and a staggering 750 Nm of torque available from the get-go. Translating the power into motion is a ZF-powered six-speed automatic transmission that spins all four wheels in a force both exhilarating and smooth. Eventually, a 0 – 60 mph run is a mere 4.3 seconds away before it tops out at a jaw-dropping 200 miles per hour. However, the Flying Spur Speed isn’t just about brute force. Instead, meticulous adjustments have been made to the 5,500-pound machine for the sake of enhanced driving dynamics. These include larger, carbon-ceramic fitted brakes, sharpened suspension, recalibrated steering, stiffer anti-rollbars (front and rear), additional driving modes, and newer 20-inch alloys wrapped in Pirelli’s P Zero tires that ensure optimal grip and control that match the Bentley’s grandeur.
A new world awaits as you step inside the plush embrace of the Flying Spur Speed’s artful cabin. Here, diamond-quilted seats prevail, showered in supple, exquisite Beluga hide leather (in up to 17 distinct color choices), hand stitched to perfection. Meanwhile, adding depth and texture are the knurled switches and dials, meticulously finished in fine metals and chrome accents, which dance across the cabin with a certain tactile pleasure. Still, there’s no mistaking the legendary woodwork exhibiting the dash, center console, and upper door trims in a classic, old-school Bentley fashion. Luckily, wood veneer choices and combinations stay limitless, ranging from rich Dark-Stained Burr Walnut to the more contemporary piano black. Meanwhile, an expansive sliding sunroof floods the cabin with natural light or the moon’s glow, an experience worth having alongside the Flying Spur Speed’s premium NAIM sound system, turning every drive into a private concert. Eventually, the luxury and bespoke-ness carry towards the rear passengers, enveloping them in two-zone climate control, leather-lined (and heated/ventilated) seats, and picnic tables – because, why not?
Outside, the Flying Spur Speed’s aesthetics stand true to Bentley’s heralding hallmark of 'perfection.' Here, form meets function in a masterful blend of classic grace and modern dynamism. So, it proudly flaunts a sweeping, elongated hood that leads to the signature Bentley matrix grille showered in chrome, completing an assertive stance upfront. Flanking this are crystal-like, twin-round headlights with integrated DRLs that light up the road with dazzling precision. Eventually, the smooth, contoured body lines flow seamlessly to the sides, which reveal a set of classy, 20-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels and chrome accents surrounding the windows. Finally, the tapered, coupe-like roofline concludes at the sculpted trunk lid, creating a sleek and aerodynamic aesthetic. Also at the back are sleek LED taillights paired with dual oval-shaped exhaust surrounds that exude a quiet confidence, camouflaging the Bentley's brute force in a 'sleeper build.'
Bentley’s Continental Flying Spur Speed boasts a feast of cutting-edge tech that harmonizes with traditional craftsmanship to deliver an unforgettable experience. For the driver’s convenience is an infotainment screen, allowing access to various functions, including sat-nav and multimedia controls. Additionally, the Flying Spur Speed comes equipped with Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), ABS, airbags, automatic ride height control, and other safety features that ensure peace of mind as you cruise down British backroads getting massaged for free.
Back when it was new, the 2013 Bentley Continental Flying Spur Speed fetched a cool MSRP of $209,600, with room left for optional extras. These (options) include Bentley’s premium (NAIM) sound system, foldable picnic tables, carbon-ceramic brakes, adaptive cruise control, rear-view parking camera, and the electric glass solar-panel sunroof. That said, depreciation has made this decade-old car an accessible entry point into the world of Bentley. So, low-mile, well-preserved examples command up to $50,000, while high-mileage Flying Spur Speeds can be found at a steal, dipping at a low $35,000. Fancy one for yourself? Explore the Bentley listings at Exotic Car Trader and see if this Bentley might become your next dream ride.
The 2013 Bentley Continental Flying Spur Speed is more than just a four-door, full-sized luxury saloon from the British marque – it's a celebration of automotive achievement and the pinnacle of automotive craftsmanship. Exotic Car Trader curates an impressive portfolio of exotic cars – modern or classic – ready for an exchange of hands. Use our straightforward car-buying process to guarantee yourself a smooth, hassle-free car-buying experience. Alternatively, we accept trade-ins and car-selling services, too. Users may benefit from our market-leading car-selling process and expert team to ensure safe and secure dealing. Undoubtedly, the Flying Spur Speed is a proud testament to Bentley's continuing legacy of excellence.
Exotic Car Trader is the fastest growing marketplace built specifically for automotive enthusiasts. Click below to learn how you can sell your car with us.
LEARN MORE
