UK vs Germany — 1921 vs 1928
| 3 Litre | SSK Supercharged Sport Kurz | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 80 hp | 300 hp |
| Engine Size | 2,996 cc | 7,065 cc |
| Top Speed | 80 mph | 119 mph |
| Weight | 3,024 lbs | 3,748 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,985 mm | 2,950 mm |
| Length | 4,267 mm | 4,370 mm |
| Units Produced | 1,622 | 33 |
| Value (Excellent) | $1,500,000 | $15,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 10/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1921 Bentley 3 Litre excels in lighter weight, better value, while the 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK Supercharged Sport Kurz stands out for more power, higher top speed, greater rarity. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
Putting the 1921 Bentley 3 Litre against the 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK Supercharged Sport Kurz is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — UK versus Germany. The 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK Supercharged Sport Kurz holds a clear advantage in raw power with 300 hp compared to 80 hp, a 220-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Bentley 3 Litre uses a Inline-4 SOHC displacing 2,996 cc, while the Mercedes-Benz SSK relies on a Inline-6 SOHC Supercharged with 7,065 cc. The 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK Supercharged Sport Kurz claims a higher top speed at 119 mph compared to 80 mph. The Bentley 3 Litre carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 724 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 33 units built, the 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK Supercharged Sport Kurz is considerably scarcer than the Bentley 3 Litre's 1,622 examples. On the collector market, the 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK Supercharged Sport Kurz commands a significant premium over the 1921 Bentley 3 Litre, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.