UK vs UK — 1936 vs 1926
| SS100 3.5 Litre | 6.5 Litre Speed Six Le Mans | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 125 hp | 180 hp |
| Torque | 175 lb-ft | 350 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 3,485 cc | 6,597 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 10.4 sec | — |
| Top Speed | 100 mph | 103 mph |
| Weight | 2,464 lbs | 4,032 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,692 mm | 3,505 mm |
| Length | 3,962 mm | 4,877 mm |
| Units Produced | 314 | 182 |
| Original MSRP | — | $9,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $800,000 | $8,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 9/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1936 Jaguar SS100 3.5 Litre excels in lighter weight, better value, while the 1926 Bentley 6.5 Litre Speed Six Le Mans stands out for more power, higher top speed. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
Among Sports Car enthusiasts, the matchup between the 1936 Jaguar SS100 3.5 Litre and 1926 Bentley 6.5 Litre Speed Six Le Mans is one for the ages. These Pre-war machines competed directly for buyers' attention and continue to vie for collectors' affections today. The 1926 Bentley 6.5 Litre Speed Six Le Mans holds a clear advantage in raw power with 180 hp compared to 125 hp, a 55-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Jaguar SS100 uses a Inline-6 OHV displacing 3,485 cc, while the Bentley 6.5 Litre relies on a Inline-6 SOHC with 6,597 cc. The 1926 Bentley 6.5 Litre Speed Six Le Mans claims a higher top speed at 103 mph compared to 100 mph. The Jaguar SS100 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1568 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1926 Bentley 6.5 Litre Speed Six Le Mans commands a significant premium over the 1936 Jaguar SS100 3.5 Litre, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.