Bentley Mulsanne

vs

Bentley R-Type Continental

UK vs UK — 2014 vs 1952

Bentley Mulsanne (2014)
Bentley R-Type Continental (1952)
Specifications
Mulsanne SpeedR-Type Continental Fastback by H.J. Mulliner
Horsepower530 hp153 hp
Torque811 lb-ft245 lb-ft
Engine Size6,752 cc4,566 cc
0-60 mph4.8 sec13.5 sec
Top Speed190 mph117 mph
¼ Mile13.1 sec
Weight5,919 lbs3,558 lbs
Wheelbase3,266 mm3,048 mm
Length5,575 mm5,258 mm
Units Produced7,300208
Original MSRP$335,600
Value (Excellent)$200,000$3,000,000
Collectibility7/1010/10
Rarity6/109/10
The Verdict

Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 2014 Bentley Mulsanne Speed excels in more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed, while the 1952 Bentley R-Type Continental Fastback by H.J. Mulliner stands out for lighter weight, greater rarity, stronger collectibility. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.

Overview

The 2014 Bentley Mulsanne Speed and 1952 Bentley R-Type Continental Fastback by H.J. Mulliner share a manufacturer in Bentley, but that's where the similarities get interesting. These two models reveal the versatility and ambition of the Bentley brand. The 2014 Bentley Mulsanne Speed holds a clear advantage in raw power with 530 hp compared to 153 hp, a 377-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Bentley Mulsanne uses a V8 Twin-Turbocharged displacing 6,752 cc, while the Bentley R-Type Continental relies on a Inline-6 OHV (F-Head) with 4,566 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2014 Bentley Mulsanne Speed edges ahead at 4.8 seconds versus 13.5 seconds. The Bentley R-Type Continental carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 2361 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 208 units built, the 1952 Bentley R-Type Continental Fastback by H.J. Mulliner is considerably scarcer than the Bentley Mulsanne's 7,300 examples. On the collector market, the 1952 Bentley R-Type Continental Fastback by H.J. Mulliner commands a significant premium over the 2014 Bentley Mulsanne Speed, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1952 Bentley R-Type Continental Fastback by H.J. Mulliner rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.