The Bentley Continental GT3 Pikes Peak is a remarkable fusion of luxury and motorsport engineering, crafted to conquer one of the most challenging hill climbs in the world. This unique vehicle, developed in collaboration between Bentley Motors, FastR, and Roger Clark Motorsport, was purpose-built to tackle the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, aiming to set new records and demonstrate Bentley’s commitment to performance and innovation.
Bentley’s Racing Heritage
Bentley’s association with motorsport dates back to its inception in 1919. Founder Walter Owen (W.O.) Bentley believed that racing was essential to demonstrate the durability and performance of his cars. This philosophy led to Bentley’s participation in various racing events, most notably the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Between 1924 and 1930, Bentley secured five victories at Le Mans, solidifying its reputation for engineering excellence. These triumphs were largely attributed to the legendary “Bentley Boys,” a group of wealthy British motorists and racing enthusiasts who personified the brand’s adventurous spirit. Their exploits on and off the track contributed significantly to Bentley’s storied legacy in motorsport.
The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb: A Historic Challenge
Established in 1916 by Spencer Penrose to promote his Broadmoor Hotel and the newly constructed highway to the summit, the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb (PPIHC), also known as “The Race to the Clouds,” is an annual motorsport event held in Colorado, USA. The course spans 12.42 miles (19.99 kilometers) with 156 turns, starting at an elevation of 9,400 feet (2,865 meters) and ascending to 14,115 feet (4,302 meters) at the summit of Pikes Peak. This elevation gain of 4,715 feet (1,440 meters) presents significant challenges, as the thinning air affects both engine performance and driver endurance. The entire course has been fully paved since 2012, transitioning from its original gravel and paved mix. The PPIHC is the second-oldest motorsport race in America, after the Indianapolis 500, and has been a proving ground for manufacturers and drivers seeking to test their limits.
Bentley’s Ambition: Dominating Pikes Peak
Bentley’s journey to Pikes Peak began with a vision to showcase the performance capabilities of their vehicles in extreme conditions. In 2018, a Bentley Bentayga set a new record in the SUV class, followed by a Continental GT in 2019 achieving a production car record. Aiming for a “Triple Crown,” Bentley targeted the Time Attack 1 record—a category for production-based vehicles with unlimited power. This ambition led to the development of the Continental GT3 Pikes Peak, designed to be the most extreme iteration of a Continental GT ever built.
Collaboration and Development
In late 2018, FastR, a Derbyshire-based motorsport company specializing in the British Drift Championship and Time Attack Championship, acquired a Continental GT3-R. With support from Roger Clark Motorsport and M-Sport, they unleashed the car’s potential, increasing its output to approximately 750 horsepower. This collaboration led to multiple circuit victories and new lap records, culminating in winning the 2019 Time Attack Championship.
Recognizing this success, Bentley proposed a partnership to develop a car specifically for the Pikes Peak challenge. The result was the most extreme Bentley GT3 ever built, designed to tackle the unique demands of the hill climb. The project faced delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic, pushing the race from 2020 to 2021. Despite these challenges, the team remained committed to their goal.
Engineering Excellence: Specifications of the Continental GT3 Pikes Peak
The Continental GT3 Pikes Peak underwent extensive modifications to prepare for the race. Below are the key specifications:
Engine and Performance:
- Engine: 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8
- Power Output: Over 750 horsepower (559 kW)
- Torque: 738 lb-ft (1,000 Nm)
- Turbochargers: Larger turbos running at 31.9 psi (2.2 bar) boost
- Intake Manifold: Carbon fiber construction
- Exhaust System: Unique Akrapovič exhaust made from 3D-printed Inconel, with pipes exiting behind the front wheels
Aerodynamics and Chassis:
- Aerodynamic Package: Enhanced with a prominent rear wing and front splitter to maximize downforce and stability
- Cooling System: Secondary cooling system with a dedicated second water pump; air scoops replacing rear side windows to channel air to an additional rear-mounted radiator
- Suspension: Upgraded double wishbone suspension with four-way adjustable racing dampers
Dimensions and Weight:
- Length: Approximately 4,950 mm
- Width: Around 2,050 mm
- Height: Approximately 1,350 mm
- Weight: Significantly reduced from the production model, exact figure undisclosed
Fuel and Sustainability:
- Fuel Type: 98RON Renewable Racing Fuel, a biofuel blend designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 85%
These specifications highlight the meticulous engineering and dedication to performance that define the Continental GT3 Pikes Peak.
The 2021 Pikes Peak Challenge
With renowned driver Rhys Millen, a two-time “King of the Mountain,” behind the wheel, expectations were high for the 2021 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. During testing, the Continental GT3 Pikes Peak demonstrated exceptional performance, leading its class by 18 seconds. However, race day presented unforeseen challenges. Ice near the summit led to a shortened course, and a backfire caused a loss of pressure, forcing Millen to complete the final miles in lower gears.
Conclusion: A Monument to Engineering Excellence and Legacy
The Bentley Continental GT3 Pikes Peak is not just another race car; it is a symbol of Bentley’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of performance, engineering, and sustainability. This car represents the culmination of Bentley’s internal combustion engine racing endeavors, combining the brand’s heritage of luxury and power with cutting-edge technology and environmental consciousness.
In an era where the automotive industry is rapidly shifting towards electrification, this car stands as a celebration of the roaring V8 and an embodiment of Bentley’s storied motorsport legacy. It was engineered to dominate one of the most challenging and prestigious motorsport events in the world, and despite the unforeseen challenges faced at Pikes Peak, it demonstrated unparalleled capability, resilience, and power.
This vehicle’s rarity, history, and engineering pedigree make it a true collector’s gem, representing the pinnacle of what a combustion engine can achieve before the world moves on to electric powertrains. It is the last of its kind—a final salute to the era of fuel, fire, and sound.
The Continental GT3 Pikes Peak isn’t just a car; it’s a piece of motorsport history. It is a legacy on wheels, carrying with it the spirit of W.O. Bentley, the triumphs of Le Mans, and the daring ambition to conquer the clouds. For collectors, enthusiasts, and historians alike, it’s not just about owning a fast car; it’s about owning a piece of Bentley’s soul.
Whether it finds its way back to Pikes Peak or into the sanctuary of a world-class collection, this Bentley Continental GT3 Pikes Peak will forever be remembered as a monumental achievement in automotive history—a masterpiece that roared to the clouds and into the hearts of car enthusiasts worldwide.