Bentley 8 Litre

vs

Bentley Mk VI

UK vs UK — 1930 vs 1946

Bentley 8 Litre (1930)
Bentley Mk VI (1946)
Specifications
8 Litre WO Bentley MasterpieceMk VI Standard Steel Saloon
Horsepower220 hp130 hp
Torque430 lb-ft203 lb-ft
Engine Size7,983 cc4,257 cc
0-60 mph15.2 sec
Top Speed105 mph95 mph
¼ Mile20.1 sec
Weight5,291 lbs3,920 lbs
Wheelbase3,810 mm3,048 mm
Length5,300 mm4,877 mm
Units Produced1005,208
Original MSRP$12,000
Value (Excellent)$5,000,000$180,000
Collectibility10/107/10
Rarity10/106/10
The Verdict

On balance, the 1930 Bentley 8 Litre WO Bentley Masterpiece makes a stronger case on paper with more power, higher top speed, greater rarity. However, the 1946 Bentley Mk VI Standard Steel Saloon counters with lighter weight, better value, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1930 Bentley 8 Litre WO Bentley Masterpiece for outright capability, or the 1946 Bentley Mk VI Standard Steel Saloon for a more distinctive ownership experience.

Overview

Bentley has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1930 Bentley 8 Litre WO Bentley Masterpiece with the 1946 Bentley Mk VI Standard Steel Saloon highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1930 Bentley 8 Litre WO Bentley Masterpiece holds a clear advantage in raw power with 220 hp compared to 130 hp, a 90-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Bentley 8 Litre uses a Inline-6 SOHC displacing 7,983 cc, while the Bentley Mk VI relies on a Inline-6 OHV with 4,257 cc. The 1930 Bentley 8 Litre WO Bentley Masterpiece claims a higher top speed at 105 mph compared to 95 mph. The Bentley Mk VI carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1371 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 100 units built, the 1930 Bentley 8 Litre WO Bentley Masterpiece is considerably scarcer than the Bentley Mk VI's 5,208 examples. On the collector market, the 1930 Bentley 8 Litre WO Bentley Masterpiece commands a significant premium over the 1946 Bentley Mk VI Standard Steel Saloon, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1930 Bentley 8 Litre WO Bentley Masterpiece rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.