Bentley 4.5 Litre

vs

Bentley Turbo R

UK vs UK — 1927 vs 1985

Bentley 4.5 Litre (1927)
Bentley Turbo R (1985)
Specifications
4.5 Litre Le MansTurbo R Sport
Horsepower110 hp385 hp
Torque210 lb-ft550 lb-ft
Engine Size4,398 cc6,750 cc
0-60 mph6.7 sec
Top Speed92 mph148 mph
¼ Mile15.0 sec
Weight3,360 lbs5,181 lbs
Wheelbase3,302 mm3,061 mm
Length4,420 mm5,268 mm
Units Produced6657,230
Original MSRP$6,500$190,000
Value (Excellent)$2,000,000$75,000
Collectibility10/106/10
Rarity8/105/10
The Verdict

This matchup is remarkably close. The 1927 Bentley 4.5 Litre Le Mans offers lighter weight, greater rarity, stronger collectibility, while the 1985 Bentley Turbo R Sport counters with more power, higher top speed, better value. Neither holds a decisive advantage, making this a true enthusiast's dilemma. Your choice ultimately depends on which driving philosophy resonates more with you.

Overview

Within the Bentley stable, the 1927 Bentley 4.5 Litre Le Mans and 1985 Bentley Turbo R Sport represent different approaches to performance and purpose. Both carry the Bentley badge, yet each carves out its own distinct identity. The 1985 Bentley Turbo R Sport holds a clear advantage in raw power with 385 hp compared to 110 hp, a 275-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Bentley 4.5 Litre uses a Inline-4 SOHC displacing 4,398 cc, while the Bentley Turbo R relies on a V8 OHV Turbo with 6,750 cc. The 1985 Bentley Turbo R Sport claims a higher top speed at 148 mph compared to 92 mph. The Bentley 4.5 Litre carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1821 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 665 units built, the 1927 Bentley 4.5 Litre Le Mans is considerably scarcer than the Bentley Turbo R's 7,230 examples. On the collector market, the 1927 Bentley 4.5 Litre Le Mans commands a significant premium over the 1985 Bentley Turbo R Sport, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1927 Bentley 4.5 Litre Le Mans rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.