UK vs Germany — 1921 vs 1936
| 3 Litre | 328 Roadster Mille Miglia | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 80 hp | 80 hp |
| Torque | — | 101 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,996 cc | 1,971 cc |
| 0-60 mph | — | 10.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 80 mph | 96 mph |
| ¼ Mile | — | 17.5 sec |
| Weight | 3,024 lbs | 1,830 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,985 mm | 2,400 mm |
| Length | 4,267 mm | 3,900 mm |
| Units Produced | 1,622 | 464 |
| Value (Excellent) | $1,500,000 | $2,500,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 10/10 |
The 1936 BMW 328 Roadster Mille Miglia emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering higher top speed, lighter weight, greater rarity. The 1921 Bentley 3 Litre counters with better value, 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.
Putting the 1921 Bentley 3 Litre against the 1936 BMW 328 Roadster Mille Miglia is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — UK versus Germany. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1921 Bentley 3 Litre producing 80 hp and the 1936 BMW 328 Roadster Mille Miglia delivering 80 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Bentley 3 Litre uses a Inline-4 SOHC displacing 2,996 cc, while the BMW 328 relies on a Inline-6 OHV with 1,971 cc. The 1936 BMW 328 Roadster Mille Miglia claims a higher top speed at 96 mph compared to 80 mph. The BMW 328 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1194 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 464 units built, the 1936 BMW 328 Roadster Mille Miglia is considerably scarcer than the Bentley 3 Litre's 1,622 examples. On the collector market, the 1936 BMW 328 Roadster Mille Miglia commands a significant premium over the 1921 Bentley 3 Litre, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.