bentley flying spur mulliner W12 powers elegant design at speed

bentley flying spur mulliner drive

To drive or to be driven, that is the question at the heart of the Bentley Flying Spur’s dual nature. Much like the contrasting landscapes seen on designboom’s drive in Devon, UK, where idyllic beaches meet rugged moors, the Flying Spur embodies both a luxury limousine and a fast driver’s car. As the last of the whopping W12 engine models, it is not just inviting for performance but a testament to highly tailored automotive design, epitomized by Mulliner craftsmanship inside and out.

the bentley flying spur mulliner W12 blends dualities of a luxury limousine and fast driver’s car

all images © designboom

the last of the W12 engine

As Devon’s landscape shifts from tranquil coves to wild forests, so too does the Bentley Flying Spur shift effortlessly between roles. Under its hood lies a 6.0-liter twin-turbocharged W12 engine – soon to be retired, silenced and motionless in history books – that propels the 2,437kg car from 0-60mph in a mere 3.7 seconds, reaching a top speed of 207mph. On long, open motorways, this British powerhouse sails smoothly, ready for the moment the driver puts their foot to the metal.

under its hood lies a 6.0-liter twin-turbocharged W12 engine

Navigating the narrow, winding country roads, the car reveals its dynamic side. In Comfort mode, it offers a smooth ride for driver and passengers. Switch to Sport mode, and the Flying Spur’s demeanor changes dramatically, with a roar of the engine and sharpened driver assists.

the W12 propels the car from 0-60mph in a mere 3.7 seconds and up to a top speed of 207mph

mulliner-crafted interior design

Inside, the Bentley Flying Spur is a sanctuary of luxury in any of the driving modes. With 1,065mm of legroom in the front and 1,089mm in the rear, driver and passengers alike enjoy ample of space. Two large skylights flood the interior with natural light, extending perspective and bringing the outside in – a much-appreciated quality when touring Devon. It is a grand space that invites passengers to savor the journey, not just the destination.

Mulliner details include engraved steel on the dashboard and center console and meticulously stitched leather

The bespoke touches of Mulliner elevates this experience further. As a badge of coachbuilding, the details are exquisite: engraved steel on the dashboard and center console, complemented by meticulously stitched leather that wraps the seats, all of which feature massage and heating functions. This luxurious atmosphere cocoons passengers and extends to the doors, where ambient lighting softly glows like the allure of a Devonshire sunset.

the luxurious atmosphere cocoons passengers, characterized at night with ambient lighting wrapped on the doors

authoritative, regal exterior design

The exterior design balances the car’s dual nature too. For those who prefer to be driven, the shape still nods to its old-school image as a four-door limousine. The elongated wheelbase and elegant lines on the side profile exude regality, especially to passers-by. The smooth surfaces sweep backwards to crown the rear as a seemingly single panel that emphasizes the width of the car.

the sculpted wheel arches, powerline and haunch positions the car as if poised for speed

Together with the powerline and haunch, the sculpted wheel arches show the model poised for speed. The Flying B mascot, round headlights, and shimmering double diamond grille continue this contrast. As the model approaches in rearview mirrors, these details signify its authoritative presence and readiness to overtake at any moment. Together, its exterior design harmonizes its dual personality of sportiness and elegance.

smooth surfaces sweep backwards to crown the rear as a seemingly single panel that emphasizes its width

The Bentley Flying Spur Mulliner is a masterful blend of dualities, much like the Devon landscape. It is a car that offers luxury for those who wish to be driven, and a thrilling dynamism for those who choose to take the wheel. In either scenario, the craftsmanship of the Mulliner badge makes each journey a design masterpiece in motion.