Bentley 6.5 Litre

vs

Bentley 3.5 Litre

UK vs UK — 1926 vs 1934

Bentley 6.5 Litre (1926)
Bentley 3.5 Litre (1934)
Specifications
6.5 Litre Speed Six Le Mans3.5 Litre
Horsepower180 hp110 hp
Torque350 lb-ft180 lb-ft
Engine Size6,597 cc3,669 cc
0-60 mph16.5 sec
Top Speed103 mph90 mph
Weight4,032 lbs3,920 lbs
Wheelbase3,505 mm3,277 mm
Length4,877 mm5,080 mm
Units Produced1821,177
Original MSRP$9,000
Value (Excellent)$8,000,000$165,000
Collectibility10/108/10
Rarity9/107/10
The Verdict

The 1926 Bentley 6.5 Litre Speed Six Le Mans holds an edge across most measurable criteria, offering more power, higher top speed, greater rarity. That said, the 1934 Bentley 3.5 Litre brings better value and remains a compelling choice for enthusiasts who value Bentley heritage. The right pick depends on whether you prioritize specifications or the intangible qualities that make a car truly special.

Overview

The 1926 Bentley 6.5 Litre Speed Six Le Mans and 1934 Bentley 3.5 Litre 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 1926 Bentley 6.5 Litre Speed Six Le Mans holds a clear advantage in raw power with 180 hp compared to 110 hp, a 70-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Bentley 6.5 Litre uses a Inline-6 SOHC displacing 6,597 cc, while the Bentley 3.5 Litre relies on a Inline-6 OHV with 3,669 cc. The 1926 Bentley 6.5 Litre Speed Six Le Mans claims a higher top speed at 103 mph compared to 90 mph. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 182 units built, the 1926 Bentley 6.5 Litre Speed Six Le Mans is considerably scarcer than the Bentley 3.5 Litre's 1,177 examples. On the collector market, the 1926 Bentley 6.5 Litre Speed Six Le Mans commands a significant premium over the 1934 Bentley 3.5 Litre, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1926 Bentley 6.5 Litre Speed Six Le Mans rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.