Bentley Continental S1

vs

Bentley Arnage

UK vs UK β€” 1955 vs 1998

Bentley Continental S1 (1955)
Bentley Arnage (1998)
Specifications
Continental S1 Fastback by H.J. MullinerArnage Red Label 6.75 V8 Turbo
Horsepower178 hp400 hp
Torque260 lb-ft616 lb-ft
Engine Size4,887 cc6,750 cc
0-60 mph13.1 sec5.9 sec
Top Speed118 mph168 mph
ΒΌ Mile18.5 sec14.3 sec
Wheelbase3,048 mm3,116 mm
Length5,230 mm5,390 mm
Value (Excellent)$1,500,000$70,000
Collectibility5/105/10
Rarity9/106/10
The Verdict

The 1998 Bentley Arnage Red Label 6.75 V8 Turbo emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1955 Bentley Continental S1 Fastback by H.J. Mulliner counters with its unique character, 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

Within the Bentley stable, the 1955 Bentley Continental S1 Fastback by H.J. Mulliner and 1998 Bentley Arnage Red Label 6.75 V8 Turbo represent different approaches to performance and purpose. Both carry the Bentley badge, yet each carves out its own distinct identity. The 1998 Bentley Arnage Red Label 6.75 V8 Turbo holds a clear advantage in raw power with 400 hp compared to 178 hp, a 222-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 Bentley Arnage relies on a V8 OHV 16V Twin-Turbocharged with 6,750 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1998 Bentley Arnage Red Label 6.75 V8 Turbo edges ahead at 5.9 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 1998 Bentley Arnage Red Label 6.75 V8 Turbo, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.