Germany vs UK — 1928 vs 1927
| SSK | 4.5 Litre Le Mans | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 300 hp | 110 hp |
| Torque | — | 210 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 7,065 cc | 4,398 cc |
| Top Speed | 120 mph | 92 mph |
| Weight | 3,748 lbs | 3,360 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,950 mm | 3,302 mm |
| Length | 4,250 mm | 4,420 mm |
| Units Produced | 33 | 665 |
| Original MSRP | — | $6,500 |
| Value (Excellent) | $15,000,000 | $2,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 8/10 |
This matchup is remarkably close. The 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK offers more power, higher top speed, greater rarity, while the 1927 Bentley 4.5 Litre Le Mans 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.
When Germany engineering meets UK craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK and 1927 Bentley 4.5 Litre Le Mans embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK holds a clear advantage in raw power with 300 hp compared to 110 hp, a 190-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mercedes-Benz SSK uses a Inline-6 SOHC Supercharged displacing 7,065 cc, while the Bentley 4.5 Litre relies on a Inline-4 SOHC with 4,398 cc. The 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK claims a higher top speed at 120 mph compared to 92 mph. The Bentley 4.5 Litre carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 388 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 33 units built, the 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK is considerably scarcer than the Bentley 4.5 Litre's 665 examples. On the collector market, the 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK commands a significant premium over the 1927 Bentley 4.5 Litre Le Mans, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.