Italy vs UK — 1939 vs 1927
| 6C 2500 Competizione | 4.5 Litre Le Mans | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 145 hp | 110 hp |
| Torque | 145 lb-ft | 210 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,443 cc | 4,398 cc |
| Top Speed | 124 mph | 92 mph |
| Weight | 2,094 lbs | 3,360 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,700 mm | 3,302 mm |
| Length | 4,300 mm | 4,420 mm |
| Units Produced | 4 | 665 |
| Original MSRP | — | $6,500 |
| Value (Excellent) | $8,000,000 | $2,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 8/10 |
On balance, the 1939 Alfa Romeo 6C 2500 Competizione makes a stronger case on paper with more power, higher top speed, lighter weight. However, the 1927 Bentley 4.5 Litre Le Mans counters with better value, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1939 Alfa Romeo 6C 2500 Competizione for outright capability, or the 1927 Bentley 4.5 Litre Le Mans for a more distinctive ownership experience.
The rivalry between Italy and UK automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1939 Alfa Romeo 6C 2500 Competizione versus 1927 Bentley 4.5 Litre Le Mans is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1939 Alfa Romeo 6C 2500 Competizione holds a clear advantage in raw power with 145 hp compared to 110 hp, a 35-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Alfa Romeo 6C 2500 Competizione uses a Inline-6 DOHC displacing 2,443 cc, while the Bentley 4.5 Litre relies on a Inline-4 SOHC with 4,398 cc. The 1939 Alfa Romeo 6C 2500 Competizione claims a higher top speed at 124 mph compared to 92 mph. The Alfa Romeo 6C 2500 Competizione carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1266 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 4 units built, the 1939 Alfa Romeo 6C 2500 Competizione is considerably scarcer than the Bentley 4.5 Litre's 665 examples. On the collector market, the 1939 Alfa Romeo 6C 2500 Competizione commands a significant premium over the 1927 Bentley 4.5 Litre Le Mans, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.