Bentley Continental S1

vs

Bentley 4.5 Litre

UK vs UK — 1955 vs 1929

Bentley Continental S1 (1955)
Bentley 4.5 Litre (1929)
Specifications
Continental S1 Fastback by H.J. Mulliner4.5 Litre Blower
Horsepower178 hp240 hp
Torque260 lb-ft
Engine Size4,887 cc4,398 cc
0-60 mph13.1 sec
Top Speed118 mph125 mph
¼ Mile18.5 sec
Weight3,582 lbs
Wheelbase3,048 mm3,302 mm
Length5,230 mm4,250 mm
Units Produced55
Value (Excellent)$1,500,000$10,000,000
Collectibility5/1010/10
Rarity9/1010/10
The Verdict

The 1929 Bentley 4.5 Litre Blower emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, higher top speed, stronger collectibility. The 1955 Bentley Continental S1 Fastback by H.J. Mulliner counters with better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.

Overview

The 1955 Bentley Continental S1 Fastback by H.J. Mulliner and 1929 Bentley 4.5 Litre Blower 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. The 1929 Bentley 4.5 Litre Blower holds a clear advantage in raw power with 240 hp compared to 178 hp, a 62-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Bentley Continental S1 uses a Inline-6 F-Head displacing 4,887 cc, while the Bentley 4.5 Litre relies on a Inline-4 Supercharged with 4,398 cc. The 1929 Bentley 4.5 Litre Blower claims a higher top speed at 125 mph compared to 118 mph. On the collector market, the 1929 Bentley 4.5 Litre Blower 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 4.5 Litre Blower rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.