Bentley 3 Litre

vs

Bentley S2 Continental

UK vs United Kingdom — 1921 vs 1959

Bentley 3 Litre (1921)
Bentley S2 Continental (1959)
Specifications
3 LitreS2 Continental Flying Spur by H.J. Mulliner
Horsepower80 hp200 hp
Torque350 lb-ft
Engine Size2,996 cc6,230 cc
0-60 mph10.9 sec
Top Speed80 mph115 mph
Weight3,024 lbs4,400 lbs
Wheelbase2,985 mm3,124 mm
Length4,267 mm5,308 mm
Units Produced1,622388
Value (Excellent)$1,500,000$600,000
Collectibility10/109/10
Rarity8/108/10
The Verdict

The 1959 Bentley S2 Continental Flying Spur by H.J. Mulliner emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, higher top speed, greater rarity. The 1921 Bentley 3 Litre counters with lighter weight, stronger collectibility, 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

The 1921 Bentley 3 Litre and 1959 Bentley S2 Continental Flying Spur by H.J. Mulliner 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 1959 Bentley S2 Continental Flying Spur by H.J. Mulliner holds a clear advantage in raw power with 200 hp compared to 80 hp, a 120-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 S2 Continental relies on a V8 OHV with 6,230 cc. The 1959 Bentley S2 Continental Flying Spur by H.J. Mulliner claims a higher top speed at 115 mph compared to 80 mph. The Bentley 3 Litre carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1376 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 388 units built, the 1959 Bentley S2 Continental Flying Spur by H.J. Mulliner is considerably scarcer than the Bentley 3 Litre's 1,622 examples.