UK vs Japan — 1946 vs 1955
| Mk VI Standard Steel Saloon | Crown Athlete JZS171 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 130 hp | 280 hp |
| Torque | 203 lb-ft | 279 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,257 cc | 2,491 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 15.2 sec | 5.6 sec |
| Top Speed | 95 mph | 155 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 20.1 sec | 14.0 sec |
| Weight | 3,920 lbs | 3,439 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,048 mm | 2,780 mm |
| Length | 4,877 mm | 4,820 mm |
| Units Produced | 5,208 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $180,000 | $35,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 5/10 |
The 1955 Toyota Crown Athlete JZS171 emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1946 Bentley Mk VI Standard Steel Saloon counters with stronger collectibility, 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.
Putting the 1946 Bentley Mk VI Standard Steel Saloon against the 1955 Toyota Crown Athlete JZS171 is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — UK versus Japan. The 1955 Toyota Crown Athlete JZS171 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 280 hp compared to 130 hp, a 150-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Bentley Mk VI uses a Inline-6 OHV displacing 4,257 cc, while the Toyota Crown relies on a Inline-6 DOHC Turbocharged with 2,491 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1955 Toyota Crown Athlete JZS171 edges ahead at 5.6 seconds versus 15.2 seconds. The Toyota Crown carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 481 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1946 Bentley Mk VI Standard Steel Saloon commands a significant premium over the 1955 Toyota Crown Athlete JZS171, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1946 Bentley Mk VI Standard Steel Saloon rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.