UK vs UK — 1926 vs 1946
| 6.5 Litre Speed Six Le Mans | Mk VI Standard Steel Saloon | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 180 hp | 130 hp |
| Torque | 350 lb-ft | 203 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 6,597 cc | 4,257 cc |
| 0-60 mph | — | 15.2 sec |
| Top Speed | 103 mph | 95 mph |
| ¼ Mile | — | 20.1 sec |
| Weight | 4,032 lbs | 3,920 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,505 mm | 3,048 mm |
| Length | 4,877 mm | 4,877 mm |
| Units Produced | 182 | 5,208 |
| Original MSRP | $9,000 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $8,000,000 | $180,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 6/10 |
The 1926 Bentley 6.5 Litre Speed Six Le Mans holds an edge across most measurable criteria, offering more power, higher top speed, greater rarity. That said, the 1946 Bentley Mk VI Standard Steel Saloon brings better value and remains a compelling choice for enthusiasts who value Bentley heritage. The right pick depends on whether you prioritize specifications or the intangible qualities that make a car truly special.
Within the Bentley stable, the 1926 Bentley 6.5 Litre Speed Six Le Mans and 1946 Bentley Mk VI Standard Steel Saloon represent different approaches to performance and purpose. Both carry the Bentley badge, yet each carves out its own distinct identity. The 1926 Bentley 6.5 Litre Speed Six Le Mans holds a clear advantage in raw power with 180 hp compared to 130 hp, a 50-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Bentley 6.5 Litre uses a Inline-6 SOHC displacing 6,597 cc, while the Bentley Mk VI relies on a Inline-6 OHV with 4,257 cc. The 1926 Bentley 6.5 Litre Speed Six Le Mans claims a higher top speed at 103 mph compared to 95 mph. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 182 units built, the 1926 Bentley 6.5 Litre Speed Six Le Mans is considerably scarcer than the Bentley Mk VI's 5,208 examples. On the collector market, the 1926 Bentley 6.5 Litre Speed Six Le Mans commands a significant premium over the 1946 Bentley Mk VI Standard Steel Saloon, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1926 Bentley 6.5 Litre Speed Six Le Mans rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.