In profile, the short overhang between the Flying Spur's front bumper and the front wheels emphasizes the prominent nose and very long hood, a traditional visual signature of a powerful automobile. Meanwhile, the long waist of the car appears deep and solid, a styling message of substance and gravitas.
Because the Flying Spur has the ability to reach 195 mph, the bodywork is also functional. The elongated shape produces a measure of aerodynamic stability at extreme speed, while a slippery drag coefficient of 0.31 Cd minimizes speed-sapping turbulence as well as annoying wind noise. For further stability, a vestigial spoiler atop the trunk lid reduces aerodynamic lift, and the carefully shaped rear bumper helps extract air from underneath the car.
The Flying Spur is imposing in size as well as style. It measures 208.9 inches (17.4 feet) from nose to tail, 83.4 inches from one outside mirror to another, and stands 58.2 inches tall. It also weighs 5456 pounds when it's parked at the curb and ready to drive, about 800 pounds heavier than the big sedans from BMW, Lexus and Mercedes-Benz. Even the standard 19-inch wheels are taller than those of conventional sedans.
Beneath the sheet metal, the Flying Spur has the same fundamental architecture as the Audi A8L (both Audi and Bentley are wholly owned divisions of Volkswagen AG). The Flying Spur's body and engine are actually built in Germany, but the final assembly takes place at Bentley's long-time facility in Crewe, England.
In terms of miscellaneous exterior features, the Flying Spur's headlights incorporate external washer jets and bright bi-xenon gas bulbs, while the taillights feature quick-response LEDs. The double-paned side glass features special infra-red reflective coating to help keep the interior cool. The windshield wipers react automatically when raindrops are sensed.
