UK vs UK — 1921 vs 1931
| 3 Litre | 8 Litre Standard Saloon | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 80 hp | 220 hp |
| Torque | — | 460 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,996 cc | 7,982 cc |
| 0-60 mph | — | 12.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 80 mph | 100 mph |
| Weight | 3,024 lbs | 5,401 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,985 mm | 3,658 mm |
| Length | 4,267 mm | 5,334 mm |
| Units Produced | 1,622 | 100 |
| Value (Excellent) | $1,500,000 | $2,500,000 |
| 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 1931 Bentley 8 Litre Standard Saloon stands out for more power, higher top speed, greater rarity. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
The 1921 Bentley 3 Litre and 1931 Bentley 8 Litre Standard Saloon 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 1931 Bentley 8 Litre Standard Saloon holds a clear advantage in raw power with 220 hp compared to 80 hp, a 140-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 Bentley 8 Litre relies on a Inline-6 OHV with 7,982 cc. The 1931 Bentley 8 Litre Standard Saloon claims a higher top speed at 100 mph compared to 80 mph. The Bentley 3 Litre carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 2377 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 100 units built, the 1931 Bentley 8 Litre Standard Saloon is considerably scarcer than the Bentley 3 Litre's 1,622 examples. On the collector market, the 1931 Bentley 8 Litre Standard Saloon commands a significant premium over the 1921 Bentley 3 Litre, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.