Bentley 3 Litre

vs

Riley MPH

UK vs United Kingdom — 1921 vs 1934

Bentley 3 Litre (1921)
Riley MPH (1934)
Specifications
3 LitreMPH Standard
Horsepower80 hp70 hp
Engine Size2,996 cc1,496 cc
Top Speed80 mph90 mph
Weight3,024 lbs2,016 lbs
Wheelbase2,985 mm2,591 mm
Length4,267 mm3,962 mm
Units Produced1,62215
Value (Excellent)$1,500,000$1,000,000
Collectibility10/1010/10
Rarity8/1010/10
The Verdict

The 1934 Riley MPH Standard emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering higher top speed, lighter weight, greater rarity. The 1921 Bentley 3 Litre counters with more power, 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.

Overview

When UK engineering meets United Kingdom craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1921 Bentley 3 Litre and 1934 Riley MPH Standard embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1921 Bentley 3 Litre producing 80 hp and the 1934 Riley MPH Standard delivering 70 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Bentley 3 Litre uses a Inline-4 SOHC displacing 2,996 cc, while the Riley MPH relies on a Inline-4 OHV (Twin-Cam, Riley) with 1,496 cc. The 1934 Riley MPH Standard claims a higher top speed at 90 mph compared to 80 mph. The Riley MPH carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1008 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 15 units built, the 1934 Riley MPH Standard is considerably scarcer than the Bentley 3 Litre's 1,622 examples.