Bentley R-Type Continental

vs

Bentley 3.5 Litre

UK vs UK — 1952 vs 1934

Bentley R-Type Continental (1952)
Bentley 3.5 Litre (1934)
Specifications
R-Type Continental Fastback by H.J. Mulliner3.5 Litre
Horsepower153 hp110 hp
Torque245 lb-ft180 lb-ft
Engine Size4,566 cc3,669 cc
0-60 mph13.5 sec16.5 sec
Top Speed117 mph90 mph
Weight3,558 lbs3,920 lbs
Wheelbase3,048 mm3,277 mm
Length5,258 mm5,080 mm
Units Produced2081,177
Value (Excellent)$3,000,000$165,000
Collectibility10/108/10
Rarity9/107/10
The Verdict

On balance, the 1952 Bentley R-Type Continental Fastback by H.J. Mulliner makes a stronger case on paper with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. However, the 1934 Bentley 3.5 Litre counters with better value, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1952 Bentley R-Type Continental Fastback by H.J. Mulliner for outright capability, or the 1934 Bentley 3.5 Litre for a more distinctive ownership experience.

Overview

Bentley has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1952 Bentley R-Type Continental Fastback by H.J. Mulliner with the 1934 Bentley 3.5 Litre highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1952 Bentley R-Type Continental Fastback by H.J. Mulliner holds a clear advantage in raw power with 153 hp compared to 110 hp, a 43-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Bentley R-Type Continental uses a Inline-6 OHV (F-Head) displacing 4,566 cc, while the Bentley 3.5 Litre relies on a Inline-6 OHV with 3,669 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1952 Bentley R-Type Continental Fastback by H.J. Mulliner edges ahead at 13.5 seconds versus 16.5 seconds. The Bentley R-Type Continental carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 362 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 208 units built, the 1952 Bentley R-Type Continental Fastback by H.J. Mulliner is considerably scarcer than the Bentley 3.5 Litre's 1,177 examples. On the collector market, the 1952 Bentley R-Type Continental Fastback by H.J. Mulliner commands a significant premium over the 1934 Bentley 3.5 Litre, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1952 Bentley R-Type Continental Fastback by H.J. Mulliner rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.