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L.A. Auto Show: Bentley’s new GT3 race car makes its U.S. debut

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British car manufacturer Bentley Motors is introducing its new GT3 race car in the U.S. at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

The GT3 signals Bentley’s return to the racetrack for the first time since its historic sixth 24 Hours of Le Mans victory in 2003.

Photos: Bentley Continental GT3 race car

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The new car is based on the fastest car Bentley ever built: the Continental GT Speed. Bentley said the GT3 features “state-of-the-art motorsport hardware and a comprehensive aerodynamic package” with the adoption of a rear-wheel-drive chassis in accordance with the regulations.

“The clear message from our customers is that Bentley belongs on the racetrack, and the Continental GT3 is the realization of a dream we’ve had ever since the launch of the Continental GT,” Wolfgang Schreiber, Bentley’s chairman and chief executive, said in a statement. “The new GT Speed is the perfect car for us to develop into a racer, and our work so far has shown huge potential.”

Photos: 2012 L.A. Auto Show

The GT Speed develops 616 horsepower. Coupled with a new eight-speed automatic transmission and engine management software, the GT Speed can go from 0 to 60 mph in 4 seconds and reach 100 mph in just 9 seconds.

The GT3 features 21-inch alloy wheels, Bentley Flying ‘B’ wing vents and diamond quilted leather-trimmed cabin with driver-selectable, sports-tuned suspension and steering, underscoring the performance of Bentley’s 6.75-liter V-8 sports sedan.

Bentley said development of the Continental GT3 will continue in the coming months and be ready for testing in 2013.

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