Bentley 4.5 Litre

vs

Bentley S2 Continental

UK vs United Kingdom — 1927 vs 1959

Bentley 4.5 Litre (1927)
Bentley S2 Continental (1959)
Specifications
4.5 Litre Le MansS2 Continental Flying Spur by H.J. Mulliner
Horsepower110 hp200 hp
Torque210 lb-ft350 lb-ft
Engine Size4,398 cc6,230 cc
0-60 mph10.9 sec
Top Speed92 mph115 mph
Weight3,360 lbs4,400 lbs
Wheelbase3,302 mm3,124 mm
Length4,420 mm5,308 mm
Units Produced665388
Original MSRP$6,500
Value (Excellent)$2,000,000$600,000
Collectibility10/109/10
Rarity8/108/10
The Verdict

This matchup is remarkably close. The 1927 Bentley 4.5 Litre Le Mans offers lighter weight, stronger collectibility, while the 1959 Bentley S2 Continental Flying Spur by H.J. Mulliner counters with more power, higher top speed, 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.

Overview

Within the Bentley stable, the 1927 Bentley 4.5 Litre Le Mans and 1959 Bentley S2 Continental Flying Spur by H.J. Mulliner represent different approaches to performance and purpose. Both carry the Bentley badge, yet each carves out its own distinct identity. The 1959 Bentley S2 Continental Flying Spur by H.J. Mulliner holds a clear advantage in raw power with 200 hp compared to 110 hp, a 90-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Bentley 4.5 Litre uses a Inline-4 SOHC displacing 4,398 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 92 mph. The Bentley 4.5 Litre carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1040 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1927 Bentley 4.5 Litre Le Mans commands a significant premium over the 1959 Bentley S2 Continental Flying Spur by H.J. Mulliner, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.