UK vs France — 1946 vs 1956
| Mk VI Standard Steel Saloon | Excellence EX1 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 130 hp | 325 hp |
| Torque | 203 lb-ft | 400 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,257 cc | 5,801 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 15.2 sec | 9.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 95 mph | 124 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 20.1 sec | — |
| Weight | 3,920 lbs | 4,299 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,048 mm | 3,150 mm |
| Length | 4,877 mm | 5,080 mm |
| Units Produced | 5,208 | 152 |
| Original MSRP | — | $12,700 |
| Value (Excellent) | $180,000 | $500,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 9/10 |
The 1956 Facel Vega Excellence EX1 emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1946 Bentley Mk VI Standard Steel Saloon counters with lighter weight, better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
Putting the 1946 Bentley Mk VI Standard Steel Saloon against the 1956 Facel Vega Excellence EX1 is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — UK versus France. The 1956 Facel Vega Excellence EX1 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 325 hp compared to 130 hp, a 195-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Bentley Mk VI uses a Inline-6 OHV displacing 4,257 cc, while the Facel Vega Excellence relies on a V8 OHV with 5,801 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1956 Facel Vega Excellence EX1 edges ahead at 9.8 seconds versus 15.2 seconds. The Bentley Mk VI carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 379 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 152 units built, the 1956 Facel Vega Excellence EX1 is considerably scarcer than the Bentley Mk VI's 5,208 examples. On the collector market, the 1956 Facel Vega Excellence EX1 commands a significant premium over the 1946 Bentley Mk VI Standard Steel Saloon, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1956 Facel Vega Excellence EX1 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.