Bentley Mulsanne: 6.75L V8 Speed Review And Buying Guide

The Bentley Mulsanne represents the zenith of traditional luxury automotive engineering, offering a seamless fusion of brute force, exquisite craftsmanship, and unparalleled comfort. This full-size sedan, particularly in its Speed variant, delivers a driving experience that feels both regal and exhilarating, making it a standout choice for those seeking the ultimate in personal transport.

Engineering Marvel: The Iconic Powertrain

At the heart of the Mulsanne lies its legendary **6.75-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine**, a powerplant with roots tracing back decades and hand-assembled at Bentley’s Crewe facility. In the Speed model, it produces 530 horsepower and an astonishing 811 lb-ft of torque, enabling this behemoth—tipping the scales at over 2.7 tons—to accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 4.8 seconds. The engine’s linear power delivery and deep, guttural exhaust note create a symphony of performance that rivals more modern supercars.

Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, the power flows smoothly through all gears, ensuring effortless overtaking and highway cruising. Top speed exceeds 180 mph, a figure that defies the car’s limo proportions. This setup not only prioritizes refinement but also injects a sense of athleticism uncommon in this class.

Interior Opulence: A Sanctuary on Wheels

Step inside the Mulsanne, and you’re enveloped in a cabin that redefines luxury. Hand-stitched leather, polished wood veneers, and flawless metalwork create an environment of bespoke perfection. Rear passengers enjoy airline-style reclining seats with massage functions, while diamond-quilted hides and optional Mulliner trim elevate the space to art gallery levels.

The dashboard architecture emphasizes driver involvement, with intuitive analog gauges and a high-definition infotainment screen. Extensive customization allows owners to select from hundreds of hide colors, wood types, and embroidery options, ensuring no two Mulsannes are identical. Noise insulation is exemplary, rendering the cabin a whisper-quiet haven even at triple-digit speeds.

• Key Interior Highlights:
• Handcrafted leather and wood throughout
• Reclining rear seats with heating, ventilation, and massage
• 20-way adjustable front seats
• Naim audio system with 19 speakers and 2,200 watts
• Picnic-style rear tables and chilled console

Dynamic Capabilities: Beyond Mere Comfort

Despite its stature, the Mulsanne surprises with agile handling. Air suspension and self-leveling adaptive dampers provide a cosseting ride, absorbing imperfections while maintaining composure in corners. In Sport mode, the setup firms up, revealing impressive body control and grip from massive 21-inch wheels.

Steering is precise, offering feedback that engages the driver without fatigue. The Speed variant enhances this with stiffer springs and retuned bushings, making it more athletic than the standard model. It’s not a sports sedan, but it covers ground with authority, blending limo serenity with GT poise.

Fuel Efficiency and Ownership Realities

Fuel economy is predictably modest for such potency: EPA ratings stand at 10 mpg city, 16 highway, and 12 combined. Real-world figures hover around 14-22 mpg depending on conditions, a non-issue for buyers unconcerned by pump prices. Maintenance costs are high, reflecting the hand-built nature, but the three-year unlimited mileage warranty offers peace of mind.

Depreciation has made used examples compelling value propositions, often available for under $100,000, positioning it as a ‘cheap’ alternative to Rolls-Royce rivals. Running costs include premium fuel mandates and specialized service, but longevity of the L-Series V8—updated since 1959—ensures durability.

Rivals and Market Positioning

The Mulsanne competes with the Rolls-Royce Ghost and Phantom, Mercedes-Maybach S-Class, and Aston Martin Rapide. While Rolls offers V12 serenity, the Bentley’s V8 provides rawer character and driver focus. Against Maybach, it excels in bespoke personalization and heritage appeal.

In a market shifting to electrification, the Mulsanne’s discontinuation underscores its status as the last guardian of analog luxury, hand-built without shared platforms.

Everyday usability and Practicality

Trunk space measures 15 cubic feet, adequate for luggage but trailing SUVs. Four-door configuration seats five comfortably, with limo-like rear legroom. Tech includes touchscreens, navigation, and connectivity, though interfaces feel dated by 2026 standards. Safety features encompass stability control, multiple airbags, and optional night vision.

Driving Impressions: King of the Road

Behind the wheel, the Mulsanne instills confidence. Acceleration pins you back with effortless surge, corners are carved with poise, and the ride wafts over bumps. It’s daft in its brilliance—opulent yet fun, imposing yet nimble. Passengers feel transported in style, affirming its chauffeur-friendly design.

Customization and Mulliner Options

Bentley’s Mulliner division offers near-limitless tailoring: from body kits to interior motifs inspired by maritime themes or aviation. Privacy suites with electrochromic glass and deployable tables enhance exclusivity. Pricing started over $300,000 new, justifying the investment in personalization.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

• Pros: Explosive V8 performance, peerless interior quality, surprising handling, bespoke options, strong resale value used.
• Cons: Thirsty fuel use, high maintenance, limited cargo, aging infotainment.

Is the Mulsanne Right for You?

For connoisseurs valuing heritage and tactility over tech, the Mulsanne delivers unmatched grandeur. It’s ideal for long-distance touring or executive transport, thriving where subtlety meets spectacle.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What engine powers the Bentley Mulsanne?

A 6.75L twin-turbo V8, hand-built with 505-530 hp depending on trim.

How fast is the Mulsanne Speed?

0-60 mph in 4.8 seconds, top speed around 190 mph.

What’s the fuel economy?

10/16/12 mpg (city/highway/combined) per EPA.

Is it more luxurious than a Rolls-Royce?

It offers comparable opulence with a sportier edge.

Why consider a used Mulsanne?

Heavy depreciation makes it a bargain luxury buy.