The Bentley Speed 8 is the prototype race car that won the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2003, finishing first and second and giving Bentley its first Le Mans victory since 1930. It was powered by a twin-turbocharged, Audi-derived 4.0-liter V8 producing more than 600 horsepower, and was driven to victory by Tom Kristensen, Rinaldo “Dindo” Capello and Guy Smith. Bentley ended the program after the win. You can’t buy a works Speed 8, but Bentley road cars are strong collateral: Borro lends against cars worth $50,000 or more, so owners can raise cash without selling.
Bentley Speed 8 at a Glance
| Spec | Bentley Speed 8 (2003) |
|---|---|
| Category | Le Mans Prototype, closed-cockpit (LMGTP) |
| Engine | 4.0L twin-turbo V8 with direct injection, Audi-derived |
| Power | More than 600 hp |
| Predecessor | EXP Speed 8 (2001–2002), 3.6L then 4.0L V8 |
| Le Mans results | 3rd (2001), 4th (2002), 1st and 2nd (2003) |
| 2003 winning drivers | Tom Kristensen, Dindo Capello, Guy Smith (#7) |
Own a Bentley? Borro lends against luxury, classic and collectible cars valued at $50,000 or more, with loans from $25,000, no credit check and funding in as little as one business day. Get a no-obligation quote or call 720-458-6788.
Bentley Speed 8 Engine and Horsepower
The Speed 8 used a twin-turbocharged V8 developed from Audi’s Le Mans engine, as both brands belonged to Volkswagen Group. The 2001 EXP Speed 8 used a 3.6-liter version; from 2002 the engine grew to 4.0 liters with direct fuel injection, and in 2003 it produced more than 600 hp. Race regulations restricted air intake, so outputs varied with the rules.
History: From EXP Speed 8 to Le Mans Winner
Volkswagen bought Bentley in 1998 and soon revived its racing program to recall the “Bentley Boys,” whose cars won Le Mans five times between 1924 and 1930. The open-top EXP Speed 8 took third place on its 2001 Le Mans debut and fourth in 2002. For 2003, Bentley rebuilt it as the closed-cockpit Speed 8. The #7 car won by two laps over the sister #8 car, giving Bentley a one-two finish. Its mission accomplished, Bentley ended the program.
“Speed 8” vs. Bentley’s 8-Speed Gearbox
The Speed 8 race car is not related to the eight-speed automatic and dual-clutch transmissions used in modern Bentley road cars. If you are searching for those, see Bentley’s current models such as the Continental GT and Flying Spur.
Can You Get a Loan Against a Bentley?
Yes, if your Bentley is worth $50,000 or more, which covers most Continental GT, Flying Spur, Bentayga and collectible classic models. Borro lends up to 50% of the appraised value, with a minimum loan of $25,000. A Bentley appraised at $120,000 could support a loan of up to about $60,000.
- No credit check and no personal guarantee. The car secures the loan, and Borro does not ask for personal or business financial statements.
- Fast funding. Once your loan is approved, funds can arrive in as little as one business day.
- You keep ownership. Your Bentley is held in fully insured, secure safekeeping for the loan term and returned when you repay.
- Private and discreet. Borro has lent more than $1 billion to clients across the country and holds an A+ BBB rating.
Learn more about Borro’s luxury and classic car loans, or read about the Bentley Continental GT.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I borrow against my Bentley?
Yes, if it is worth $50,000 or more. Borro lends up to 50% of the appraised value, with loans from $25,000, no credit check and funding in as little as one business day.
What engine did the Bentley Speed 8 use?
A twin-turbocharged, Audi-derived V8: 3.6 liters in 2001, then 4.0 liters with direct injection.
How much horsepower did the Bentley Speed 8 have?
More than 600 hp in 2003.
Did the Bentley Speed 8 win Le Mans?
Yes. It won the 2003 24 Hours of Le Mans, finishing first and second.
Who drove the winning Bentley Speed 8?
Tom Kristensen, Dindo Capello and Guy Smith.
See how much your Bentley could unlock. Borro’s car loans start at $25,000, with no credit check and no personal guarantee. Apply now or call 720-458-6788 to speak with a valuation expert.
