UK vs Germany — 1926 vs 1928
| 6.5 Litre Speed Six Le Mans | SSK Count Trossi Special | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 180 hp | 300 hp |
| Torque | 350 lb-ft | — |
| Engine Size | 6,597 cc | 7,065 cc |
| Top Speed | 103 mph | 146 mph |
| Weight | 4,032 lbs | 3,748 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,505 mm | 2,950 mm |
| Length | 4,877 mm | 4,250 mm |
| Units Produced | 182 | 33 |
| Original MSRP | $9,000 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $8,000,000 | $30,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 10/10 |
The 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK Count Trossi Special emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, higher top speed, lighter weight. The 1926 Bentley 6.5 Litre Speed Six Le Mans 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.
When UK engineering meets Germany craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1926 Bentley 6.5 Litre Speed Six Le Mans and 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK Count Trossi Special embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK Count Trossi Special holds a clear advantage in raw power with 300 hp compared to 180 hp, a 120-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 Mercedes-Benz SSK relies on a Inline-6 SOHC Supercharged with 7,065 cc. The 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK Count Trossi Special claims a higher top speed at 146 mph compared to 103 mph. The Mercedes-Benz SSK carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 284 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 33 units built, the 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK Count Trossi Special is considerably scarcer than the Bentley 6.5 Litre's 182 examples. On the collector market, the 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK Count Trossi Special commands a significant premium over the 1926 Bentley 6.5 Litre Speed Six Le Mans, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.