Bentley SuperSports Shatters World Speed Record on Sheet Ice

There is an axiom in motor sport that says, “If you want to win, hire a Finn.”   Juha Kankkunen, Finland’s four-time world rally champion, set the world speed record for diving on ice in a Bentley Continental Supersports convertible. Yes, a convertible!

On a 16.5Km long track with only 70mm of ice between himself and Baltic Sea, Kankkunen drove the 6-liter Bentley an incredible 330.695 km/h.  The record-breaking speed is an average measured over a 1000m distance driven in both directions then certified by The Guinness Book of Records.

Record setter Juha Kankkunen comments on the effort: “The last time, I narrowly missed the magical 200 mph mark in a Continental GT. When I heard about the Supersports I was determined to go record breaking again with the Bentley Boys. This time, with over 600bhp under the bonnet, a Quickshift transmission and the security of the all-wheel drive system, the Supersports convertible was the perfect car to go for the record.”

According to the team, the Bentley Continental Supersports convertible was only “lightly modified” with Pirelli SottoZero 2 snow tires, a full welded-in roll cage and rear mounted parachute.  The front and rear spoilers were optimized, as was the grille.  Continuing Bentley’s commitment toward lowering C02, the four-wheel drive 6-liter Supersports was powered by E85 biofuel.

What’s it like driving over 320km/h on Ice?  “320km/h came up after 5km on sheet ice. Then it was just a question of getting everything right in the timing zone and hoping the snow kept away. There’s nothing to beat driving a Bentley at these speeds; the conditions may be perilous but the car responds so well to the slightest adjustment which gives you the confidence to push even harder.” Said Kankkunen.

If you’re interested in setting your own world record, Bentley will produce just 100 of these very special, very powerful, limited edition Supersports. The Ice Speed Record edition features a 6-liter, 631 hp flex-fuel engine, Quickshift six-speed automatic gearbox, special exhaust and all-wheel drive system. Inside, you’ll find diamond quilted alcantra seats and an eight-inch SatNav “infotainment” system.  Pricing has not been announced. Roll cage not included.