France vs UK — 1936 vs 1930
| 686 Grand Sport | 8 Litre WO Bentley Masterpiece | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 125 hp | 220 hp |
| Torque | 177 lb-ft | 430 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 3,485 cc | 7,983 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 14.0 sec | — |
| Top Speed | 103 mph | 105 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 19.0 sec | — |
| Weight | 3,417 lbs | 5,291 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,150 mm | 3,810 mm |
| Length | 4,800 mm | 5,300 mm |
| Units Produced | — | 100 |
| Original MSRP | — | $12,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $250,000 | $5,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 10/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1936 Hotchkiss 686 Grand Sport excels in lighter weight, better value, while the 1930 Bentley 8 Litre WO Bentley Masterpiece stands out for more power, higher top speed, stronger collectibility. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
Putting the 1936 Hotchkiss 686 Grand Sport against the 1930 Bentley 8 Litre WO Bentley Masterpiece is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — France versus UK. The 1930 Bentley 8 Litre WO Bentley Masterpiece holds a clear advantage in raw power with 220 hp compared to 125 hp, a 95-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Hotchkiss 686 uses a Inline-6 OHV displacing 3,485 cc, while the Bentley 8 Litre relies on a Inline-6 SOHC with 7,983 cc. The 1930 Bentley 8 Litre WO Bentley Masterpiece claims a higher top speed at 105 mph compared to 103 mph. The Hotchkiss 686 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1874 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1930 Bentley 8 Litre WO Bentley Masterpiece commands a significant premium over the 1936 Hotchkiss 686 Grand Sport, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1930 Bentley 8 Litre WO Bentley Masterpiece rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.