We gather the Ferrari Roma, Lexus LC500, Continental GT V8 and DB11 AMR to find out which is the ultimate sporting GT -
influences. It’s a stunning looking thing, especially in this spectacular shade of Rosso Maranello.
The eight-speed DCT transmission is brilliantly effective. The large paddles are satisfying to curl your fingers around, but you don’t have to do anything if you simply want to leave the Roma in D and make effortless progress. It makes sense to stick with the Ferrari, as we’re pretty much on top of some great driving roads. There’s an energy and urgency about the Roma that’s unfailingly impressive. A sub-1600kg kerb weight certainly helps. The steering is clear and quick-witted, the engine brilliantly tractable, but with real underlying fizz that’s waiting to be uncorked. The ride has an edge to it but still manages to smother the worst of the road surface imperfections.
Swapping from the Roma to the DB11 AMR immediately highlights the Aston’s main weakness, which is its interior. It has always felt and looked a bit cheap compared with the old DB9’s , but now it also seems way off the pace in terms of technology, too. A new interior is coming, and on the evidence of this test it won’t be a moment too soon.Things look up once you start the twin-turbocharged 5.2-litre V12. Nothing beats 12 cylinders for kudos, and the Aston certainly has some swagger.
This is a shame, as the DB11’s breadth of character is especially pleasing. It will settle nicely into a languid, loping stride, so it’s a bit more relaxing than the Roma at a steady-speed cruise, while the 630bhp V12 purrs away nicely in the background without any boominess. Wind/road noise is more subdued, too.
Aston and Bentley have long been rivals. Especially since both were reinvented at the turn of the century. For the latter it was the Conti GT that made the breakthrough, bringing the Flying B within reach of a new group of customers, and reconnecting Bentley with some of the more sporting strands of its DNA.
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Bentley announces new S package for Continental GT, GT CThe new Continental GT and GT C 'S' models lay a sporting foundation for Bentley customers looking to prioritize the driving experience.
Read more »
2023 Bentley Continental GT S and GTC S aim for driving pleasureThe 2023 Bentley Continental GT S models gain a blacked out look and additional equipment that's optional on base models.
Read more »
Bentley Continental GT V8 S revealed with subtle setup tweaks | EvoThe Continental GT V8 S has picked up some subtle enhancements, but there are no changes under the bonnet -
Read more »
Bentley launches new Continental GT SNo more power for the 'sharper' V8 flagship - but it ought to sound the business. Certainly looks it 😍
Read more »
Bentley Continental GT S brings bespoke design, sharper dynamics | AutocarBentley Continental GT S brings bespoke black design elements and sharper driving dynamics
Read more »
Bentley Continental GT V8 S revealed with subtle setup tweaks | EvoThe Continental GT V8 S has picked up some subtle enhancements, but there are no changes under the bonnet -
Read more »