500 Horsepower And New 6-Spd Auto Highlight 2007 Arnage
Bentley might be expanding its product lineup with the VW Phaeton-derived Continental-series GT Coupe, GTC Convertible and Flying Spur Sedan, but it hasnt forgotten about its prestige product that has taken the brand through the transition from Vicars to VAG. Aside from Rolls Royces Phantom, the Bentley Arnage just might be the most overtly opulent luxury car to come out of England, and, for 2007 its been updated once more, with a focus on mechanical components.
Under the stately hood of the Arnage is the same six-and-three-quarters liter twin-turbocharged V8 that dates back to 1959, although its been completely modernized over the years. The engines output for the T model has risen to 500 horsepower and | | Bentleys top-line Arnage gets internal upgrades including more power, a six-speed auto transmission and ESP electronic stability control. (Photo: Bentley Motors) | 738 lb-ft of torque, which is up 11- and 14-percent respectively. The lesser R and long-wheelbase RL models are also more powerful, making 450 horsepower and 645 lb-ft of torque, which is up from 400 horsepower and 614 lb-ft of torque. These changes come from new quick-spooling turbos and a roller tappet system for valve operation.
Since its introduction, the Arnage has relied on General Motors Hydramatic four-speed automatic gearbox, as its been the only one that can successfully cope with the huge torque outputs. For 2007, Bentleys put in | | More power and torque give the engine added enthusiasm, enhanced by a new six-speed automatic with manual mode. (Photo: Bentley Motors) | a new ZF six-speed gearbox with manual mode, similar to the one used in the Jaguar XJR and BMW 7-Series, but its innards have been strengthened enabling it to cope with the Bentley engines greater output. This highly sophisticated gearbox actually eliminates one of the big problems with the old Arnage, a slightly elastic power delivery, similar to what one might experience with a CVT gearbox. Together, the upgraded drivetrain combo allows the Arnage T to have a top speed of 179 mph, and the R and RL 168 mph.
|