2020 Bentley Continental GT Number 9 Edition by Mulliner

In the world of luxury automobiles, the Bentley Continental GT has long stood as a paragon of refinement and performance. Yet, for its 100th anniversary, Bentley has taken a bold step to celebrate its illustrious heritage with the Continental GT Number 9 Edition by Mulliner,a vehicle that pays homage to one of the brand’s most legendary figures and machines.

The Number 9 Edition is a tribute to Sir Henry Ralph Stanley “Tim” Birkin and his iconic Blower Bentley. This 1930 Le Mans racer, famed for its deep green livery and formidable presence, has cemented its place in automotive lore. Birkin’s Blower Bentley was a symbol of pre-war racing prowess, and its legacy has inspired this limited-edition model.

Visually, the Continental GT Number 9 Edition commands attention. Available in either Viridian Green,a nod to Birkin’s legendary race car,or Beluga Black, it exudes an aura of exclusivity and elegance. The bespoke 22-inch wheels are colour-matched, enhancing the vehicle’s striking profile, while a carbon-fibre body kit and Bentley’s Black Line Specification add a modern, sporty edge.

The exterior is complemented by tailored “9” badging and a distinctive front grill graphic, reinforcing the connection to its historical namesake. Inside, the cabin is equally exceptional. The centre console features an engine-turned finish, evoking the intricate craftsmanship of early Bentleys. The pièce de résistance is the timepiece designed by Jaeger, reminiscent of the gauges found in Bentley’s early racing machines.

Bentley has ensured that the Number 9 Edition is a sought-after collector’s item. Each vehicle is imbued with a piece of history: a wood insert from the original seat of Birkin’s Number 9 car, set in resin, backlit, and prominently displayed on the dashboard. This unique artefact connects the modern-day driver with the rich heritage of Bentley’s racing past.

Additional touches include Centenary Gold trim pieces and special “1 of 100” door sill plates, marking the limited production run. The 18-karat gold-plated organ stops are a nod to Bentley’s tradition of using precious materials to enhance its vehicles’ luxurious interiors.

While the Number 9 Edition is a tribute to the past, it doesn’t shy away from showcasing Bentley’s cutting-edge technology. Built on the third-generation Continental GT platform, it features a 6.0-liter W12 TSI engine producing 626 horsepower and 664 lb-ft of torque. With a top speed of 207 mph and a 0-60 mph time of just 3.6 seconds, it blends historical homage with modern performance prowess.

The MSB platform used for the Continental GT incorporates advanced materials and technologies, including a 48-volt roll-control system and the Super Formed process for body panels, ensuring that the Number 9 Edition is not only a tribute to Bentley’s history but also a testament to its future.

The Bentley Continental GT Number 9 Edition by Mulliner is a celebration of Bentley’s storied past and its forward-looking innovation. By blending exquisite design, historical reverence, and cutting-edge technology, Bentley has created a vehicle that stands as both a tribute and a milestone. For collectors and enthusiasts alike, the Number 9 Edition is a rare gem,a modern classic that embodies the spirit of Sir Tim Birkin and the enduring legacy of Bentley Motors.