Ferrari’s new extreme V12 berlinetta, the 599 GTO, delivers a lap time of just 1 minute and 24 seconds at Fiorano, making it the fastest road-going model in our history.

This limited edition special series of just 599 is the new pinnacle of Prancing Horse sportiness and has benefited to an enormous degree from technological transfers from the track. Many of the cutting-edge solutions sported by the 599 GTO are also the product of the Maranello engineers’ experience in the development of the 599XX, the prototype experimental car of which, as its legendary moniker suggests, the 599 GTO is the road-homologated version.

This is a car that makes the joy of driving its central focus. Whether you are behind the wheel or as a passenger, every journey is an event.

Within its sumptuous interior time can seem to stand still, for this is a Bentley laced with power; enabling its occupants to drive, relax, converse and enjoy themselves in impeccable style, at remarkable speeds. W.O. would heartily approve.

Although closely related to the GT, the Continental GTC V8 has its own distinct character. Those iconic Bentley features of dominant bonnet line, prominent matrix grille and twin large inner headlamps confirm its pedigree, while the wide track and four-square stance emphasise the performance focus of an all-wheel drive supercar. At the rear, wrap-around lamps accentuate the low, wide proportions, flanking a distinctive Bentley ‘double-horseshoe’ boot lid with a spoiler on its upper edge.

Distinguishing features for the V8 model include a red enamel winged ‘B’ badge, gloss black grille with bright chrome surround, three-segment front bumper and the ‘figure eight’ tailpipes at the rear.

To call the Continental GTC V8 a convertible understates its capabilities. It is both a sensational open tourer when the weather permits and a practical year-round proposition, as well insulated and refined as a coupé thanks to its four-layer roof.

And for the owner of a Continental GTC V8, one of the incidental pleasures of hood-down motoring is the chance to enjoy the V8’s mechanical symphony…in full surround sound.

From the distinctive backbeat of its eight cylinders at idling speed to the glorious snarl of full-throttle acceleration, the new V8 offers an exhilarating, involving and passionate route to Bentley Continental ownership. All-wheel drive and an eight-speed transmission transmit its power to the road with unshakable precision. This is a Bentley that can both stir the soul or calm the spirit, according to the mood of the driver or the conditions.