Bentley has released the limited-edition Speed Edition 12 in honour of the magnificent W12 engine that has been at the heart of its performance flagships and the brand itself since 2003. The Speed Edition 12 models are a fitting farewell to an incredible engineering achievement, since they are powered by the most successful 12-cylinder engine of the modern period.

The Edition 12 package adds numerous special touches to the Speed specification of the Bentayga, Flying Spur, Continental GT, and Continental GT Convertible. To name a few: a fascia in Grand Black veneer with the engine firing sequence carved beside an inlaid Edition 12 badge; a numbered engine plaque; Edition 12 embroidery; colour-graduated contrast stitching on the seats; and so on.

In honour of an engine that has propelled the company's cars — and its fortunes — for two decades, just 120 of each of the four models will be built, making the Speed Edition 12 a rare and sought-after tribute.

The Continental GT, Bentley's first all-new model after VW Group acquired the brand in 2003, was powered by the company's iconic W12 engine, signalling the beginning of a new era for Bentley. The 6.0-litre twin-turbocharged W12's distinctive W-formation allowed it to be 24% shorter than a comparable V12 without sacrificing power, efficiency, or refinement. Since then, emissions have decreased by 25% while power and torque have increased by 37% and 54%, respectively, thanks to constant improvement. A maximum of 659PS (650 bhp) is produced by the W12 at 5000–6000 rpm in the Speed Edition 12 vehicles, and a peak torque of 900Nm is achieved at just 1500rpm and continues uninterrupted through 5000 rpm, for which Bentley is famous.

Little but carefully crafted exterior details set apart the Speed Edition 12 cars, making them easily recognisable to industry insiders. Silver brake callipers are one of the unique features that set this Bentley apart from the others. Badges for the Speed Edition 12 can be found on the front fenders of the Continental GT and Convertible, and on the rear quarter panels of the Bentayga and Flying Spur in addition to the standard Speed logo. As you pop the hood, you'll see an Edition 12 plaque prominently displayed over the engine.

In addition to the self-levelling wheel emblems and 22-inch black painted Speed alloy wheels, the exterior also boasts Blackline specification exterior brightware. Opalite is a new paint colour that may be ordered as an extra; it's a soft gray-green with a faint copper appearance that positively radiates in direct sunlight.

The interior of the Limited Edition 12 is as unique as the outside, with welcome lights and illuminated treadplates to welcome the driver and passengers. Bentley's Speed colour splits are an option for the upholstery of all Edition 12 cars. The primary colour, Beluga black, can be selected alone or in combination with Brunel blue, Cricketball red, Linen, or Orange. Grand Black high-gloss veneer is used throughout.

Mulliner Silver piping and Edition 12 namestyle stitched into the seats set apart the limited edition. Quilting and contrast stitching in a three-colour "fade" from Anthracite to Porpoise to Stratos adorn the upper seat regions. There is contrast stitching on the quilted door panels. The number 12 is machined into the solid face of the control for the organ stop air vents, making them one-of-a-kind. An additional nice touch is the etched firing sequence of the W12 engine onto the Grand Black veneer facia behind the driver and front passenger.

The final touch is a 1:5 scale replica of the Bentley W12 engine block that may be proudly displayed on a mantle, bookshelf, or desk. As a lasting tribute to one of Bentley's most iconic and potent powerplants, the scale model W12 engines are cast from aluminium salvaged from a full-size W12 engine block.

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