Imagine a car engineered not just for speed, but for relentless endurance. That is precisely what the 2019 Continental GT3 represents in the world of motorsport. This machine is a testament to Bentley’s unwavering commitment to performance. It continues a rich racing heritage stretching back to the iconic Bentley Boys of the 1920s.
This second-generation racer built upon an already impressive foundation. It pushed the boundaries of what a GT car could achieve on the global stage. It blended production car origins with pure racing pedigree.
A New Breed of Racer
The 2019 Continental GT3 debuted with significant enhancements over its predecessor. It featured a completely new bodyshell. This new shell was based on the all-new production Continental GT. However, it was meticulously optimized for weight reduction and increased stiffness. This careful engineering ensures peak performance.
Every aspect of the car was refined for the demands of competitive racing. This included aerodynamic improvements and structural rigidity. The car was engineered from the ground up to conquer circuits worldwide. You will certainly appreciate its purpose-built design.
Power and Precision: Engine Specifications
At the heart of the 2019 Continental GT3 lies a formidable 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine. Bentley engineers strategically repositioned this powerplant. It sits 86 mm lower and 90 mm further back in the race car’s chassis. This careful placement contributes to a near 50-50 weight distribution. This balance is crucial for optimal handling.
The engine came fitted with an all-new dry sump system. Revised inlet and exhaust manifolds further enhanced its breathing. A new intercooler promised improved cooling efficiency over the previous iteration. This robust setup allowed the engine to produce up to 600 bhp, depending on the Balance of Performance (BOP) regulations for specific races. Power is sent to the rear wheels via an Xtrac six-speed sequential transaxle gearbox. This system includes a racing clutch and steering wheel-mounted paddle-operated pneumatic gear shift. A carbon fiber propshaft and a limited-slip differential complete the drivetrain.
The chassis features double wishbone suspension both front and rear. It uses four-way adjustable racing dampers for precise control. Stopping power comes from ventilated iron disc brakes. These brakes are paired with Brembo six-piston front calipers and four-piston rear calipers. The driver can adjust the brake bias.
Dominating the Global Stage
The second-generation Continental GT3 quickly made its mark in global motorsport. It notably competed in prestigious series like the Blancpain GT Series Endurance Cup. It also participated in the grueling Intercontinental GT Challenge. Its presence continued Bentley’s long-standing motorsport prowess.
The car truly demonstrated its extraordinary capabilities on both road and track. This prowess was especially evident in endurance events. The engineering behind it truly shone through during long races.
Bentley’s Triumphant Bathurst 2020 Victory
A defining moment for the 2019 Continental GT3 came at the Bathurst 12 Hour race in 2020. The #7 Continental GT3, piloted by Maxime Soulet (BEL), Jordan Pepper (ZAR), and Jules Gounon (FRA), achieved overall victory. They started from P11 on the grid. They showcased incredible pace and strategy.
The car rapidly moved through the field. It entered podium contention early in the race. World-class stints from all three drivers, combined with strong team strategy and swift pit stops, propelled them into P1. They held this lead for an incredible seven hours. The car ran flawlessly throughout. A crucial reactionary pit-stop, just over an hour from the finish, addressed a puncture. This final act by the team set the car up for victory. Despite looming rain and ambient temperatures exceeding 40°C, the #7 Continental GT3 crossed the line victorious. They also set a new race distance record of 314 laps.
The Champion Car: Chassis #7
The very car that secured the iconic Bathurst 12 Hour win in 2020 is now preserved. It is kept in Bentley’s Heritage Collection. This victory remains the absolute highlight of the second-generation GT3 program. It marked a stylish conclusion to Bentley’s GT3 program.
This particular chassis is now fitted with a second seat. This allows passengers to experience the sheer ferocity of the most performance-focused Continental GT. It offers a unique insight into a true racing legend. You can truly feel the power.
In summary, the 2019 Continental GT3 stands as a monumental achievement in Bentley’s racing history. Its advanced engineering, powerful V8 engine, and championship-winning performance at Bathurst cement its place as a genuine auto icon. This car embodies speed, endurance, and Bentley’s enduring spirit of competition.
Disclaimer: Specifications and performance figures are indicative of racing conditions and may vary. Consult official sources for precise data.
Source: Bentley
