The Bentley Continental GT has been rightfully lauded, but is sometimes said to be (by certain critics) “too much.” Too powerful, too fast, too easy, too big, and even, too good.

Bentley executed the "Speed" order to create a new variant of everyone's favorite drop-top and Crewe's “mad scientists,” disguised as automotive engineers, have taken a vehicle that's already considered by some to be an eleven on a ten scale and turned it up a notch or two... or three. Gloriously excessive excess awaits the lucky occupants of such a machine.

No singular element of the Speed GTC is key to its upgrade; instead, it entailed creating a comprehensively improved package. The Speed versions aren't merely “badge jobs,” they're the culmination of a methodical, all-inclusive approach to advancement. And stylistically, the alterations are subtle – or as subtle as anything with a flying "B" can be. Some would say Bentley's Speed lineup doesn't distinguish itself enough from its non-Speed siblings, but a closer inspection reveals the details are obvious, assuming you know what to look for.

The GTC Speed is lower than its counterpart by 10-mm in front and 15-mm in back on a redesigned suspension. Specific settings for the springs, dampers, and anti-roll bar were reworked for around-town comfort, and the Continuous Damping Control works to minimize the rolling of that phenomenal body. The GTC Speed is more than just a faultless operating theater, a few cosmetic tweaks and a reworked suspension. This is a 600-horsepower convertible with 553 lb-ft of torque, capable of running to 60-mph in 4.5 seconds and on to a top speed of 200-mph with the roof up or 195-mph lowered. The GTC Speed has been described as being made for "customers who demand a more focused, open-top driving experience." The GTC is phenomenal; the GTC Speed is more phenomenal.