Frankfurt motor show 2007 - Bentley

The fastest and most powerful production model in Bentley's history makes its public debut at Frankfurt.

It's the Continental GT Speed coupe – perhaps a politically incorrect name for a car in this day and age, but a deserved one.

This is the first road-going Bentley to top 200mph, thanks to a 600bhp version of the company's turbocharged W12 engine.

Pulling power has also been increased – to 553lb ft – and there's a modified (and less intrusive) 'sport traction' function within the stability control system.

Together, they help the Speed dispense with the 0-60mph dash in 4.3 seconds (against 4.6 for the standard 552bhp Continental GT) and to run on to a top speed of 202mph.

Naturally, the chassis has been modified to improve the car's cornering ability, and the air suspension has been lowered to pin the Speed closer to the road. There's also said to be improved feel and feedback through the steering.

A dark-tinted chrome grille, 20-inch wheels with bespoke Pirelli tyres, a wider low front air intake, enlarged exhausts and a revised cabin based on the Mulliner option pack complete the transformation.

The Speed is on sale now at £130,500 – £10,000 more than the standard Continental GT, which itself is mildly revised.

Both cars have modified engine and transmission components, which trim 35kg off their weight and are enough to bring down CO2 emissions from 410g/km to 396 and to improve fuel economy by 3.5%, says Bentley.