UK vs Italy — 1955 vs 1958
| S-Series Continental S2 Drophead Coupe | 2600 Sprint Zagato | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 200 hp | 165 hp |
| Torque | 310 lb-ft | 159 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 6,230 cc | 2,584 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 10.9 sec | 8.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 115 mph | 137 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.8 sec | 16.5 sec |
| Weight | 4,299 lbs | 2,513 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,124 mm | 2,500 mm |
| Length | 5,385 mm | 4,320 mm |
| Units Produced | 431 | 6,999 |
| Original MSRP | — | $5,500 |
| Value (Excellent) | $1,200,000 | $250,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 7/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1955 Bentley S-Series Continental S2 Drophead Coupe excels in more power, greater rarity, stronger collectibility, while the 1958 Alfa Romeo 2600 Sprint Zagato stands out for quicker acceleration, higher top speed, lighter weight. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
Putting the 1955 Bentley S-Series Continental S2 Drophead Coupe against the 1958 Alfa Romeo 2600 Sprint Zagato is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — UK versus Italy. The 1955 Bentley S-Series Continental S2 Drophead Coupe holds a clear advantage in raw power with 200 hp compared to 165 hp, a 35-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Bentley S-Series Continental uses a V8 OHV displacing 6,230 cc, while the Alfa Romeo 2600 relies on a Inline-6 DOHC with 2,584 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1958 Alfa Romeo 2600 Sprint Zagato edges ahead at 8.5 seconds versus 10.9 seconds. The Alfa Romeo 2600 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1786 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 431 units built, the 1955 Bentley S-Series Continental S2 Drophead Coupe is considerably scarcer than the Alfa Romeo 2600's 6,999 examples. On the collector market, the 1955 Bentley S-Series Continental S2 Drophead Coupe commands a significant premium over the 1958 Alfa Romeo 2600 Sprint Zagato, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1955 Bentley S-Series Continental S2 Drophead Coupe rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.