Bentley Continental GT

vs

BMW 850

UK vs Germany — 2018 vs 1996

Bentley Continental GT (2018)
BMW 850 (1996)
Specifications
Continental GT W12 Mulliner850 CSi
Horsepower626 hp380 hp
Torque664 lb-ft406 lb-ft
Engine Size5,950 cc5,576 cc
0-60 mph3.6 sec5.6 sec
Top Speed207 mph155 mph
¼ Mile11.4 sec13.9 sec
Weight4,947 lbs3,946 lbs
Wheelbase2,851 mm2,684 mm
Length4,850 mm4,780 mm
Units Produced1,510
Original MSRP$252,000$102,000
Value (Excellent)$320,000$180,000
Collectibility7/109/10
Rarity5/108/10
The Verdict

This matchup is remarkably close. The 2018 Bentley Continental GT W12 Mulliner offers more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed, while the 1996 BMW 850 CSi counters with lighter weight, stronger collectibility, better value. Neither holds a decisive advantage, making this a true enthusiast's dilemma. Your choice ultimately depends on which driving philosophy resonates more with you.

Overview

When UK engineering meets Germany craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 2018 Bentley Continental GT W12 Mulliner and 1996 BMW 850 CSi embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 2018 Bentley Continental GT W12 Mulliner holds a clear advantage in raw power with 626 hp compared to 380 hp, a 246-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Bentley Continental GT uses a W12 Twin-Turbo displacing 5,950 cc, while the BMW 850 relies on a V12 DOHC with 5,576 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2018 Bentley Continental GT W12 Mulliner edges ahead at 3.6 seconds versus 5.6 seconds. The BMW 850 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1001 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 2018 Bentley Continental GT W12 Mulliner commands a significant premium over the 1996 BMW 850 CSi, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1996 BMW 850 CSi rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.