Bentley’s long-lived V8 engine, measuring 6.75-litres, has finally headed for retirement after being on duty (in some form or another) since its introduction in 1959. Of course, the first iteration of that engine is in order of magnitude less refined than today L Series V8 found in the Mulsanne.
The long-running engine has been favoured by Bentley for its high torque and effortless delivery, essential in powering the luxurious machines that the now Volkswagen-owned company produces.
The engine became known by its unique displacement, garnering the shorthanded name ‘Six and three-quarter’ V8. It was originally developed with fellow British automotive pioneer Rolls Royce and now in the Mulsanne Speed, is available two-turbochargers and 1,100Nm of torque on tap.
It can accelerate the 2.7 tonne luxury saloon to 100km/h in just 4.9 seconds - an incredible feat – with power sent to its rear wheels via a ZF-sourced 8-speed automatic transmission.
Wolfgang Durheimer, Bentley’s CEO, reported said the L Series V8 will not be found beyond the current Mulsanne. In all it’s a fitting end to the cultured brute of an engine, finding its final home in a car that blends so much old world charm into a package that’s also brimming with high technology.
