Bentley Continental S1

vs

Jaguar Mk IX

UK vs UK — 1955 vs 1950

Bentley Continental S1 (1955)
Jaguar Mk IX (1950)
Specifications
Continental S1 Fastback by H.J. MullinerMk IX 3.8 Automatic
Horsepower178 hp220 hp
Torque260 lb-ft240 lb-ft
Engine Size4,887 cc3,781 cc
0-60 mph13.1 sec11.3 sec
Top Speed118 mph115 mph
¼ Mile18.5 sec17.8 sec
Weight3,920 lbs
Wheelbase3,048 mm3,048 mm
Length5,230 mm4,953 mm
Units Produced10,009
Original MSRP$5,100
Value (Excellent)$1,500,000$80,000
Collectibility5/106/10
Rarity9/105/10
The Verdict

The 1950 Jaguar Mk IX 3.8 Automatic emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, stronger collectibility. The 1955 Bentley Continental S1 Fastback by H.J. Mulliner counters with higher top speed, 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.

Overview

The 1955 Bentley Continental S1 Fastback by H.J. Mulliner and 1950 Jaguar Mk IX 3.8 Automatic stand as two of the most notable Luxury Car cars from Post-war. Both emerged during a period of intense competition, and choosing between them remains a passionate debate among collectors. The 1950 Jaguar Mk IX 3.8 Automatic holds a clear advantage in raw power with 220 hp compared to 178 hp, a 42-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Bentley Continental S1 uses a Inline-6 F-Head displacing 4,887 cc, while the Jaguar Mk IX relies on a Inline-6 DOHC with 3,781 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1950 Jaguar Mk IX 3.8 Automatic edges ahead at 11.3 seconds versus 13.1 seconds. On the collector market, the 1955 Bentley Continental S1 Fastback by H.J. Mulliner commands a significant premium over the 1950 Jaguar Mk IX 3.8 Automatic, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.