Bentley 3 Litre

vs

Mercedes-Benz SSK

UK vs Germany — 1921 vs 1928

Bentley 3 Litre (1921)
Mercedes-Benz SSK (1928)
Specifications
3 LitreSSK Count Trossi Special
Horsepower80 hp300 hp
Engine Size2,996 cc7,065 cc
Top Speed80 mph146 mph
Weight3,024 lbs3,748 lbs
Wheelbase2,985 mm2,950 mm
Length4,267 mm4,250 mm
Units Produced1,62233
Value (Excellent)$1,500,000$30,000,000
Collectibility10/1010/10
Rarity8/1010/10
The Verdict

It's a closely fought contest. The 1921 Bentley 3 Litre brings lighter weight, better value to the table, and the 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK Count Trossi Special answers with more power, higher top speed, greater rarity. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.

Overview

The rivalry between UK and Germany automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1921 Bentley 3 Litre versus 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK Count Trossi Special is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK Count Trossi Special holds a clear advantage in raw power with 300 hp compared to 80 hp, a 220-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Bentley 3 Litre uses a Inline-4 SOHC displacing 2,996 cc, while the Mercedes-Benz SSK relies on a Inline-6 SOHC Supercharged with 7,065 cc. The 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK Count Trossi Special claims a higher top speed at 146 mph compared to 80 mph. The Bentley 3 Litre carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 724 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 33 units built, the 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK Count Trossi Special is considerably scarcer than the Bentley 3 Litre's 1,622 examples. On the collector market, the 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK Count Trossi Special commands a significant premium over the 1921 Bentley 3 Litre, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.