UK vs UK — 1955 vs 1958
| Continental S1 Fastback by H.J. Mulliner | P5B 3.5 Coupe V8 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 178 hp | 161 hp |
| Torque | 260 lb-ft | 210 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,887 cc | 3,528 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 13.1 sec | 10.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 118 mph | 110 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 18.5 sec | 17.5 sec |
| Weight | — | 3,451 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,048 mm | 2,794 mm |
| Length | 5,230 mm | 4,712 mm |
| Units Produced | — | 11,501 |
| Original MSRP | — | $5,200 |
| Value (Excellent) | $1,500,000 | $55,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 5/10 |
This matchup is remarkably close. The 1955 Bentley Continental S1 Fastback by H.J. Mulliner offers more power, higher top speed, while the 1958 Rover P5B 3.5 Coupe V8 counters with quicker acceleration, stronger collectibility, 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.
The 1955 Bentley Continental S1 Fastback by H.J. Mulliner and 1958 Rover P5B 3.5 Coupe V8 stand as two of the most notable Luxury Car cars from Post-war. Both emerged during a period of intense competition, and choosing between them remains a passionate debate among collectors. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1955 Bentley Continental S1 Fastback by H.J. Mulliner producing 178 hp and the 1958 Rover P5B 3.5 Coupe V8 delivering 161 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Bentley Continental S1 uses a Inline-6 F-Head displacing 4,887 cc, while the Rover P5B relies on a V8 OHV with 3,528 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1958 Rover P5B 3.5 Coupe V8 edges ahead at 10.5 seconds versus 13.1 seconds. On the collector market, the 1955 Bentley Continental S1 Fastback by H.J. Mulliner commands a significant premium over the 1958 Rover P5B 3.5 Coupe V8, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1958 Rover P5B 3.5 Coupe V8 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.