Idris Elba Breaks a 90-Year 'Flying Mile' Speed Record

Actor Idris Elba broke a 90-year United Kingdom "flying mile" speed record, according to reports.

"The Wire" and "Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom" actor was in the driver's seat of a standard Bentley Continental GT Speed on Sunday in Wales,  a Bentley press release said.

Elba drove the car to a top speed of 180.3mph at Pendine Sands, in Wales. This broke the existing record of 174.8mph set by Sir Malcolm nearly 90 years ago in his legendary Napier-Campbell Blue Bird. The record was independently verified by the UK Timing Association.

"I'm absolutely elated to have broken the 'Flying Mile' at Pendine Sands. It's an honor to have taken on the challenge, and to successfully follow in the footsteps of the illustrious Sir Malcolm Campbell," said Elba after realizing he had broken the record.

Elba drove the car on a beach in South Wales while working on an autobiographical documentary series entitled 'Idris Elba: No Limits'.

Elba beat out the last record, set in 1927 by Sir Malcolm Campbell, who hit 174.2 miles in hour.