France vs UK — 1936 vs 1931
| D8-120 Aerosport Coupe | 8 Litre Standard Saloon | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 120 hp | 220 hp |
| Torque | 221 lb-ft | 460 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,744 cc | 7,982 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 13.0 sec | 12.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 106 mph | 100 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 18.5 sec | — |
| Weight | 4,189 lbs | 5,401 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,200 mm | 3,658 mm |
| Length | 5,200 mm | 5,334 mm |
| Units Produced | 350 | 100 |
| Value (Excellent) | $3,000,000 | $2,500,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 10/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1936 Delage D8-120 Aerosport Coupe excels in higher top speed, lighter weight, better value, while the 1931 Bentley 8 Litre Standard Saloon stands out for more power, quicker acceleration, greater rarity. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
Putting the 1936 Delage D8-120 Aerosport Coupe against the 1931 Bentley 8 Litre Standard Saloon is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — France versus UK. The 1931 Bentley 8 Litre Standard Saloon holds a clear advantage in raw power with 220 hp compared to 120 hp, a 100-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Delage D8-120 uses a Inline-8 OHV displacing 4,744 cc, while the Bentley 8 Litre relies on a Inline-6 OHV with 7,982 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1931 Bentley 8 Litre Standard Saloon edges ahead at 12.5 seconds versus 13.0 seconds. The Delage D8-120 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1212 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 100 units built, the 1931 Bentley 8 Litre Standard Saloon is considerably scarcer than the Delage D8-120's 350 examples.