The driver-focused Mulsanne Speed is seen by many as the pinnacle of the Mulsanne family, and regarded as a true Bentley flagship.

The Evolution of the Mulsanne

Since its launch at Pebble Beach in 2009, the Mulsanne continued to evolve throughout its lifespan. The first addition to the Mulsanne family came in 2015, with a Speed derivative. Boasting an upgraded 6.75-litre V8 engine, along with selectable driver-focused sports suspension and steering, the Speed promised the fastest ultra-luxury driving experience in the world. In 2016, the Mulsanne received a plethora of upgrades which further cemented its position at the pinnacle of automotive luxury. A completely redesigned front-end – including the fenders, bonnet, radiator shell, grilles, lights and bumper – gave the car a more modern and integrated appearance.

The Mulsanne Speed

The Speed saw the existing 6.75-litre V8 engine upgraded to produce 530 bhp and 1,100 Nm. This upgrade reduced the 0-60 mph time to 4.8 seconds, and propelled the Speed on to a top speed of 190 mph. The 8-speed ZF gearbox also benefitted from recalibration, optimising the drivetrain for instant torque delivery. ‘S’ mode provides the driver with the most exciting experience, keeping the engine speed above 2,000 rpm such that the turbochargers are spooled and ready to supply instant performance.

To match the enhanced performance from the drivetrain, the chassis systems were upgraded with an even more driver-focused Sport suspension mode. While the Speed is capable of providing a supple and compliant ride in Bentley and Comfort suspension modes, switching into to Sport mode stiffens the all-round air suspension for improved body control and tweaks the steering setup for greater feedback and accuracy.

Exclusive 21” hand-finished alloys, dark tinted front and rear lamps, rifled sports exhausts and Speed fender badging mark the Speed as the high-performance pinnacle of the flagship Mulsanne family.

C12 BML

The Heritage Collection Mulsanne Speed was originally a UK press car, serving as the final example of the Speed before the Mulsanne’s retirement. The exterior is duotone – Magnetic over Beluga – and the inside, already benefiting from the Mulliner Driving Specification as standard in the Speed, features diamond-quilted seats, a knurled gear lever, drilled alloy sport pedals and optional carbon fibre waistrail inserts.