UK vs France — 1952 vs 1958
| R-Type Continental Fastback by H.J. Mulliner | HK500 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 153 hp | 335 hp |
| Torque | 245 lb-ft | 400 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,566 cc | 5,906 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 13.5 sec | 7.6 sec |
| Top Speed | 117 mph | 140 mph |
| ¼ Mile | — | 15.8 sec |
| Weight | 3,558 lbs | 3,704 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,048 mm | 2,640 mm |
| Length | 5,258 mm | 4,660 mm |
| Units Produced | 208 | 490 |
| Original MSRP | — | $10,500 |
| Value (Excellent) | $3,000,000 | $500,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 9/10 |
The 1958 Facel Vega HK500 emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. 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.
Putting the 1952 Bentley R-Type Continental Fastback by H.J. Mulliner against the 1958 Facel Vega HK500 is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — UK versus France. The 1958 Facel Vega HK500 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 335 hp compared to 153 hp, a 182-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. 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 Facel Vega HK500 relies on a V8 OHV Chrysler with 5,906 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1958 Facel Vega HK500 edges ahead at 7.6 seconds versus 13.5 seconds. On the collector market, the 1952 Bentley R-Type Continental Fastback by H.J. Mulliner commands a significant premium over the 1958 Facel Vega HK500, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.