Bentley R-Type Continental

vs

Bentley Turbo R

UK vs UK — 1952 vs 1985

Bentley R-Type Continental (1952)
Bentley Turbo R (1985)
Specifications
R-Type Continental Fastback by H.J. MullinerTurbo R Sport
Horsepower153 hp385 hp
Torque245 lb-ft550 lb-ft
Engine Size4,566 cc6,750 cc
0-60 mph13.5 sec6.7 sec
Top Speed117 mph148 mph
¼ Mile15.0 sec
Weight3,558 lbs5,181 lbs
Wheelbase3,048 mm3,061 mm
Length5,258 mm5,268 mm
Units Produced2087,230
Original MSRP$190,000
Value (Excellent)$3,000,000$75,000
Collectibility10/106/10
Rarity9/105/10
The Verdict

It's a closely fought contest. The 1952 Bentley R-Type Continental Fastback by H.J. Mulliner brings lighter weight, greater rarity, stronger collectibility to the table, and the 1985 Bentley Turbo R Sport answers with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.

Overview

Bentley has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1952 Bentley R-Type Continental Fastback by H.J. Mulliner with the 1985 Bentley Turbo R Sport highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1985 Bentley Turbo R Sport holds a clear advantage in raw power with 385 hp compared to 153 hp, a 232-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Bentley R-Type Continental uses a Inline-6 OHV (F-Head) displacing 4,566 cc, while the Bentley Turbo R relies on a V8 OHV Turbo with 6,750 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1985 Bentley Turbo R Sport edges ahead at 6.7 seconds versus 13.5 seconds. The Bentley R-Type Continental carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1623 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 Turbo R's 7,230 examples. On the collector market, the 1952 Bentley R-Type Continental Fastback by H.J. Mulliner commands a significant premium over the 1985 Bentley Turbo R Sport, 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.