UK vs UK — 1955 vs 1998
| Continental S1 Fastback by H.J. Mulliner | Continental GT Speed | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 178 hp | 610 hp |
| Torque | 260 lb-ft | 553 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,887 cc | 5,998 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 13.1 sec | 4.3 sec |
| Top Speed | 118 mph | 202 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 18.5 sec | 12.3 sec |
| Wheelbase | 3,048 mm | 2,746 mm |
| Length | 5,230 mm | 4,804 mm |
| Value (Excellent) | $1,500,000 | $120,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 3/10 |
Numbers favor the 1998 Bentley Continental GT Speed with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1955 Bentley Continental S1 Fastback by H.J. Mulliner offers its unique character, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.
Few model names carry as much weight as the Bentley Continental S1. The 1955 and 1998 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. The 1998 Bentley Continental GT Speed holds a clear advantage in raw power with 610 hp compared to 178 hp, a 432-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Bentley Continental S1 uses a Inline-6 F-Head displacing 4,887 cc, while the Bentley Continental GT relies on a W12 DOHC 48V Twin-Turbo with 5,998 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1998 Bentley Continental GT Speed edges ahead at 4.3 seconds versus 13.1 seconds. On the collector market, the 1955 Bentley Continental S1 Fastback by H.J. Mulliner commands a significant premium over the 1998 Bentley Continental GT Speed, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.