Bentley 4.5 Litre

vs

Bentley Continental R

UK vs UK — 1929 vs 1991

Bentley 4.5 Litre (1929)
Bentley Continental R (1991)
Specifications
4.5 Litre BlowerContinental R
Horsepower240 hp385 hp
Torque524 lb-ft
Engine Size4,398 cc6,750 cc
0-60 mph6.1 sec
Top Speed125 mph152 mph
¼ Mile14.4 sec
Weight3,582 lbs5,456 lbs
Wheelbase3,302 mm3,061 mm
Length4,250 mm5,345 mm
Units Produced551,290
Original MSRP$290,000
Value (Excellent)$10,000,000$150,000
Collectibility10/107/10
Rarity10/107/10
The Verdict

This matchup is remarkably close. The 1929 Bentley 4.5 Litre Blower offers lighter weight, greater rarity, stronger collectibility, while the 1991 Bentley Continental R 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 1929 Bentley 4.5 Litre Blower and 1991 Bentley Continental R represent different approaches to performance and purpose. Both carry the Bentley badge, yet each carves out its own distinct identity. The 1991 Bentley Continental R holds a clear advantage in raw power with 385 hp compared to 240 hp, a 145-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Bentley 4.5 Litre uses a Inline-4 Supercharged displacing 4,398 cc, while the Bentley Continental R relies on a V8 OHV Turbocharged 16V with 6,750 cc. The 1991 Bentley Continental R claims a higher top speed at 152 mph compared to 125 mph. The Bentley 4.5 Litre carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1874 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 55 units built, the 1929 Bentley 4.5 Litre Blower is considerably scarcer than the Bentley Continental R's 1,290 examples. On the collector market, the 1929 Bentley 4.5 Litre Blower commands a significant premium over the 1991 Bentley Continental R, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1929 Bentley 4.5 Litre Blower rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.