USA vs UK — 1936 vs 1930
| Zephyr V12 Continental | 8 Litre WO Bentley Masterpiece | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 110 hp | 220 hp |
| Torque | 180 lb-ft | 430 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,382 cc | 7,983 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 16.0 sec | — |
| Top Speed | 90 mph | 105 mph |
| Weight | 3,600 lbs | 5,291 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,150 mm | 3,810 mm |
| Length | 5,283 mm | 5,300 mm |
| Units Produced | 130,000 | 100 |
| Original MSRP | $1,320 | $12,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $350,000 | $5,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 10/10 |
The 1930 Bentley 8 Litre WO Bentley Masterpiece emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, higher top speed, greater rarity. The 1936 Lincoln Zephyr V12 Continental counters with lighter weight, 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.
When USA engineering meets UK craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1936 Lincoln Zephyr V12 Continental and 1930 Bentley 8 Litre WO Bentley Masterpiece embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 1930 Bentley 8 Litre WO Bentley Masterpiece holds a clear advantage in raw power with 220 hp compared to 110 hp, a 110-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Lincoln Zephyr uses a V12 L-head displacing 4,382 cc, while the Bentley 8 Litre relies on a Inline-6 SOHC with 7,983 cc. The 1930 Bentley 8 Litre WO Bentley Masterpiece claims a higher top speed at 105 mph compared to 90 mph. The Lincoln Zephyr carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1691 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 100 units built, the 1930 Bentley 8 Litre WO Bentley Masterpiece is considerably scarcer than the Lincoln Zephyr's 130,000 examples. On the collector market, the 1930 Bentley 8 Litre WO Bentley Masterpiece commands a significant premium over the 1936 Lincoln Zephyr V12 Continental, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.