Bentley 8 Litre

vs

Bentley S2 Continental

UK vs United Kingdom — 1930 vs 1959

Bentley 8 Litre (1930)
Bentley S2 Continental (1959)
Specifications
8 Litre WO Bentley MasterpieceS2 Continental Flying Spur by H.J. Mulliner
Horsepower220 hp200 hp
Torque430 lb-ft350 lb-ft
Engine Size7,983 cc6,230 cc
0-60 mph10.9 sec
Top Speed105 mph115 mph
Weight5,291 lbs4,400 lbs
Wheelbase3,810 mm3,124 mm
Length5,300 mm5,308 mm
Units Produced100388
Original MSRP$12,000
Value (Excellent)$5,000,000$600,000
Collectibility10/109/10
Rarity10/108/10
The Verdict

Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1930 Bentley 8 Litre WO Bentley Masterpiece excels in greater rarity, stronger collectibility, while the 1959 Bentley S2 Continental Flying Spur by H.J. Mulliner stands out for higher top speed, lighter weight, better value. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.

Overview

The 1930 Bentley 8 Litre WO Bentley Masterpiece and 1959 Bentley S2 Continental Flying Spur by H.J. Mulliner share a manufacturer in Bentley, but that's where the similarities get interesting. These two models reveal the versatility and ambition of the Bentley brand. The 1930 Bentley 8 Litre WO Bentley Masterpiece holds a clear advantage in raw power with 220 hp compared to 200 hp, a 20-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Bentley 8 Litre uses a Inline-6 SOHC displacing 7,983 cc, while the Bentley S2 Continental relies on a V8 OHV with 6,230 cc. The 1959 Bentley S2 Continental Flying Spur by H.J. Mulliner claims a higher top speed at 115 mph compared to 105 mph. The Bentley S2 Continental carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 891 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 Bentley S2 Continental's 388 examples. On the collector market, the 1930 Bentley 8 Litre WO Bentley Masterpiece commands a significant premium over the 1959 Bentley S2 Continental Flying Spur by H.J. Mulliner, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.