Bentley 6.5 Litre

vs

Bentley S2 Continental

UK vs United Kingdom — 1926 vs 1959

Bentley 6.5 Litre (1926)
Bentley S2 Continental (1959)
Specifications
6.5 Litre Speed Six Le MansS2 Continental Flying Spur by H.J. Mulliner
Horsepower180 hp200 hp
Torque350 lb-ft350 lb-ft
Engine Size6,597 cc6,230 cc
0-60 mph10.9 sec
Top Speed103 mph115 mph
Weight4,032 lbs4,400 lbs
Wheelbase3,505 mm3,124 mm
Length4,877 mm5,308 mm
Units Produced182388
Original MSRP$9,000
Value (Excellent)$8,000,000$600,000
Collectibility10/109/10
Rarity9/108/10
The Verdict

Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1926 Bentley 6.5 Litre Speed Six Le Mans excels in lighter weight, greater rarity, stronger collectibility, while the 1959 Bentley S2 Continental Flying Spur by H.J. Mulliner stands out for more power, higher top speed, better value. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.

Overview

The 1926 Bentley 6.5 Litre Speed Six Le Mans 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 180 hp, a 20-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 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 103 mph. The Bentley 6.5 Litre carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 368 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1926 Bentley 6.5 Litre Speed Six Le Mans commands a significant premium over the 1959 Bentley S2 Continental Flying Spur by H.J. Mulliner, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.