If ever there was a case for gluing on your toupee, here it is -- the Bentley Azure T, the most torque-laden convertible offered to date by the winged badge.
The existing $650k Azure sold here puts out 336kW and 875Nm, but the 'T' variant -- due to be launched at next week's Los Angeles motor show -- ups the ante to the tune of 373kW and a plain absurd 1000Nm. Bentley claims over 900Nm of torque is on tap between 1800 and 3800rpm, so it should be well suited to towing boats... or the average-sized apartment block.
Despite its three-tonne bulk, the gargantuan drop-top is able to sprint to 100km/h in 5.5sec, while 160km/h flashes past in a brisk 12.0sec. Although academic in most parts of the world, top whack is just 12km/h shy of 300 kays.
Visual cues that distinguish the new roadster flagship from the 'base model' include pimp/rapper-friendly 20-inch five-spoke alloy wheels, a retractable 'Flying B' bonnet mascot, mesh upper and lower grilles and 'Le Mans' lower front wing air vents.
The Azure T also features a 'Jewel' fuel filler cap, dual exhausts and a choice of 42 exterior paint colours.
Inside, there's diamond quilted seats and door panels, drilled alloy brake and accelerator pedals and 'Engine-turned' aluminium trim on the dashboard and centre console.
Audiophiles can plump for the optional 'Naim for Bentley' premium audio system, which is claimed to deliver "the world's best in-car sound stage", thanks to 10 speakers, a dual-channel sub-woofer and an 1100-watt amplifier.
In keeping with the brand's bespoke orientation, the hand-assembled twin-turbo V8 engine comes with a black-finish air intake manifold bearing the signature of the team leader who oversaw its construction by Bentley technicians in the Crewe factory.
For added stopping power, buyers can specify an upgraded braking system with carbon/silicon carbide, cross-drilled brake ventilated discs. Measuring 420x40 mm (front) and 356x28 mm (rear), these discs are claimed to be the largest fitted to any production car currently on the market.
Pricing for the Azure T is yet to be announced, but expect a price tag in the vicinity of $700k.
To comment on this article click here