Power came via a 90-degree 6.7-L V8, comprised of an aluminum-silicon alloy block with cast iron wet cylinder liners. The 8-valve heads were aluminum as well, simple by today's standards but ruggedly capable of handling the added pressure brought on by the Garrett AiResearch turbocharger (type TO4B). The Prince of Darkness (Lucas) was commissioned to supply the breakerless electronic ignition, while Solex delivered its type 4A1 4-barrel downdraught carburetor. After its first year a variety of engine upgrades included replacement of the carburetor by Bosch MK-Motronic fuel injection, which was again upgraded in 1990 by Bosch K Motronic fuel injection with digital ignition. In 1995 Zytek EMS3 engine management system completed the performance package making the final model year the most desired.
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| The Turbo R was powered by a 90-degree 6.7-L V8, simple by today's standards but still capable of coping with the Garrett AiResearch turbocharger's increased pressure. (Photo: http://www.auto-salon-singen.de) |
Later models also benefited from a 4-speed auto gearbox, while pre-1992 cars made do with a 3-speed automatic transmission. Both transmissions are wonderfully smooth shifting though, and there's so much torque available that the 3-speed hardly impedes the Turbo R's rapid progression. To achieve the liquid smooth shifts Bentley incorporated Transmission Shift Energy Management and Adaptive Shift Control, while Dynamic Shift Pattern (DSP) modified the gear change intervals in 'Normal' mode, passively or aggressively depending on a driver's mood.
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| With amazing dynamic handling, the Turbo R was tuned more for sport when compared to 'base' Bentleys. (Photo: http://www.auto-salon-singen.de) |
Even more amazing than its smooth, lightning quick acceleration was the car's dynamic handling. The coil sprung independent suspension, that achieved near perfect weight distribution via its front full-length lever arms and Panhard equipped semi-trailing arm in the rear, was tuned for a more sporting behavior than 'base' Bentleys, while for the first time aluminum wheels and wider performance-biased tires were added.