Bentley 6.5 Litre

vs

Jaguar SS100

UK vs UK — 1926 vs 1938

Bentley 6.5 Litre (1926)
Jaguar SS100 (1938)
Specifications
6.5 Litre Speed Six Le MansSS100 3.5 Litre Roadster
Horsepower180 hp125 hp
Torque350 lb-ft170 lb-ft
Engine Size6,597 cc3,485 cc
0-60 mph10.4 sec
Top Speed103 mph100 mph
Weight4,032 lbs2,632 lbs
Wheelbase3,505 mm2,667 mm
Length4,877 mm3,962 mm
Units Produced182118
Original MSRP$9,000
Value (Excellent)$8,000,000$750,000
Collectibility10/1010/10
Rarity9/109/10
The Verdict

This matchup is remarkably close. The 1926 Bentley 6.5 Litre Speed Six Le Mans offers more power, higher top speed, while the 1938 Jaguar SS100 3.5 Litre Roadster counters with lighter weight, better value. Neither holds a decisive advantage, making this a true enthusiast's dilemma. Your choice ultimately depends on which driving philosophy resonates more with you.

Overview

The 1926 Bentley 6.5 Litre Speed Six Le Mans and 1938 Jaguar SS100 3.5 Litre Roadster stand as two of the most notable Sports Car cars from Pre-war. Both emerged during a period of intense competition, and choosing between them remains a passionate debate among collectors. The 1926 Bentley 6.5 Litre Speed Six Le Mans holds a clear advantage in raw power with 180 hp compared to 125 hp, a 55-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Bentley 6.5 Litre uses a Inline-6 SOHC displacing 6,597 cc, while the Jaguar SS100 relies on a Inline-6 OHV with 3,485 cc. The 1926 Bentley 6.5 Litre Speed Six Le Mans claims a higher top speed at 103 mph compared to 100 mph. The Jaguar SS100 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1400 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1926 Bentley 6.5 Litre Speed Six Le Mans commands a significant premium over the 1938 Jaguar SS100 3.5 Litre Roadster, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.