UK vs UK — 1952 vs 1950
| R-Type Continental Fastback by H.J. Mulliner | DB2/4 Mk III | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 153 hp | 162 hp |
| Torque | 245 lb-ft | 175 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,566 cc | 2,922 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 13.5 sec | 9.3 sec |
| Top Speed | 117 mph | 118 mph |
| ¼ Mile | — | 17.1 sec |
| Weight | 3,558 lbs | 2,750 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,048 mm | 2,515 mm |
| Length | 5,258 mm | 4,166 mm |
| Units Produced | 208 | 551 |
| Original MSRP | — | $6,500 |
| Value (Excellent) | $3,000,000 | $500,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 7/10 |
The 1950 Aston Martin DB2/4 Mk III emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering quicker acceleration, higher top speed, lighter weight. The 1952 Bentley R-Type Continental Fastback by H.J. Mulliner counters with greater rarity, stronger collectibility, 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.
The 1952 Bentley R-Type Continental Fastback by H.J. Mulliner and 1950 Aston Martin DB2/4 Mk III stand as two of the most notable Grand Tourer cars from Post-war. Both emerged during a period of intense competition, and choosing between them remains a passionate debate among collectors. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1952 Bentley R-Type Continental Fastback by H.J. Mulliner producing 153 hp and the 1950 Aston Martin DB2/4 Mk III delivering 162 hp. 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 Aston Martin DB2/4 relies on a Inline-6 DOHC with 2,922 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1950 Aston Martin DB2/4 Mk III edges ahead at 9.3 seconds versus 13.5 seconds. The Aston Martin DB2/4 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 808 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1952 Bentley R-Type Continental Fastback by H.J. Mulliner commands a significant premium over the 1950 Aston Martin DB2/4 Mk III, 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.