Bentley Continental S1

vs

Bentley Speed Six

UK vs UK — 1955 vs 1929

Bentley Continental S1 (1955)
Bentley Speed Six (1929)
Specifications
Continental S1 Fastback by H.J. MullinerSpeed Six Le Mans Tourer
Horsepower178 hp180 hp
Torque260 lb-ft280 lb-ft
Engine Size4,887 cc6,597 cc
0-60 mph13.1 sec12.0 sec
Top Speed118 mph104 mph
¼ Mile18.5 sec18.5 sec
Weight4,145 lbs
Wheelbase3,048 mm3,302 mm
Length5,230 mm4,700 mm
Units Produced545
Value (Excellent)$1,500,000$8,000,000
Collectibility5/1010/10
Rarity9/109/10
The Verdict

Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1955 Bentley Continental S1 Fastback by H.J. Mulliner excels in higher top speed, better value, while the 1929 Bentley Speed Six Le Mans Tourer stands out for quicker acceleration, stronger collectibility. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.

Overview

The 1955 Bentley Continental S1 Fastback by H.J. Mulliner and 1929 Bentley Speed Six Le Mans Tourer share a manufacturer in Bentley, but that's where the similarities get interesting. These two models reveal the versatility and ambition of the Bentley brand. 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 1929 Bentley Speed Six Le Mans Tourer delivering 180 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Bentley Continental S1 uses a Inline-6 F-Head displacing 4,887 cc, while the Bentley Speed Six relies on a Inline-6 SOHC with 6,597 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1929 Bentley Speed Six Le Mans Tourer edges ahead at 12.0 seconds versus 13.1 seconds. On the collector market, the 1929 Bentley Speed Six Le Mans Tourer commands a significant premium over the 1955 Bentley Continental S1 Fastback by H.J. Mulliner, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1929 Bentley Speed Six Le Mans Tourer rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.