USA vs UK — 1931 vs 1930
| V-16 Series 452 | 8 Litre WO Bentley Masterpiece | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 165 hp | 220 hp |
| Torque | 381 lb-ft | 430 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 7,406 cc | 7,983 cc |
| Top Speed | 100 mph | 105 mph |
| Weight | 5,800 lbs | 5,291 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,734 mm | 3,810 mm |
| Length | 5,639 mm | 5,300 mm |
| Units Produced | 1,189 | 100 |
| Original MSRP | $5,350 | $12,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $2,000,000 | $5,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 10/10 |
The 1930 Bentley 8 Litre WO Bentley Masterpiece emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, higher top speed, lighter weight. The 1931 Cadillac V-16 Series 452 counters with better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
Putting the 1931 Cadillac V-16 Series 452 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 — USA versus UK. The 1930 Bentley 8 Litre WO Bentley Masterpiece holds a clear advantage in raw power with 220 hp compared to 165 hp, a 55-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Cadillac V-16 uses a V16 OHV displacing 7,406 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 100 mph. The Bentley 8 Litre carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 509 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 100 units built, the 1930 Bentley 8 Litre WO Bentley Masterpiece is considerably scarcer than the Cadillac V-16's 1,189 examples. On the collector market, the 1930 Bentley 8 Litre WO Bentley Masterpiece commands a significant premium over the 1931 Cadillac V-16 Series 452, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.