Are the Bentley Mulsanne and Flying Spur in the Same Class?

[MacKeegan]

The Bentley Mulsanne and Flying Spur are indeed in the same class, as both are full-size luxury sedans. The Mulsanne is powered by a 6.8-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine, while the Flying Spur features a 6.0-liter W12 twin-turbocharged engine. The Flying Spur measures 5316mm in length, 1978mm in width, and 1484mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3194mm. In comparison, the Mulsanne has dimensions of 5575mm in length, 1926mm in width, and 1521mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3266mm. The Mulsanne's 6.8-liter V8 twin-turbo engine delivers 513 horsepower and a maximum torque of 1020 Nm, featuring direct fuel injection and an aluminum alloy cylinder head and block. On the other hand, the Flying Spur's 6.0-liter W12 twin-turbo engine produces 635 horsepower and a maximum torque of 900 Nm, utilizing both direct and port fuel injection along with an aluminum alloy cylinder head and block.

[DelBarrett]

I've previously compared Bentley's model lineup, and the Mulsanne and Flying Spur are definitely not in the same class. The Mulsanne is Bentley's flagship luxury sedan, positioned at the very top—like an exclusive ride for tycoons. Stepping inside, you're enveloped in exceptional quietness and comfort, with interiors entirely handcrafted. Pricing typically starts around 5-6 million RMB, offering an ultra-smooth ride though slightly cumbersome. The Flying Spur, on the other hand, sits a tier lower, more akin to a high-performance luxury sedan priced around 4 million RMB. Developed on the Continental GT platform, it emphasizes driving dynamics, delivering sharp cornering and fierce acceleration. Mulsanne buyers chase ultimate indulgence, while the Flying Spur suits daily driving with more practicality. This tier gap manifests everywhere: the Mulsanne was rarer before discontinuation, and maintenance costs are significantly higher. In terms of comfort, the Mulsanne's rear seats redefine luxury, yet it lacks the Flying Spur's versatility. Ultimately, they cater to entirely different audiences—the Mulsanne rivals Rolls-Royce, whereas the Flying Spur competes favorably with the Mercedes S-Class.

[LeahLynn]

As a car enthusiast, I've delved deep into Bentley's history and product lineup. The Mulsanne represents the pinnacle of traditional British craftsmanship, with fully bespoke designs and engines, emphasizing grandeur and serenity—it glides on the road as if soaring. The Flying Spur, on the other hand, is more modern, rooted in classic heritage but infused with sporty DNA. Its chassis shares a Volkswagen platform with more aggressive tuning, making it incredibly fun to drive. The two models differ significantly in tier—the Mulsanne is the absolute flagship, better suited for business receptions or high-end occasions, while the Flying Spur leans toward family use or spirited driving. The nearly million-yuan price gap speaks volumes, and maintenance costs are also higher for the Mulsanne. From a brand perspective, Bentley uses the Mulsanne to challenge top-tier luxury brands, while the Flying Spur competes with the Porsche Panamera. After driving both, I felt the Mulsanne is like an old gentleman, and the Flying Spur like an athlete—different in character but equally luxurious.

[AliceMarie]

Driving my friend's Flying Spur for daily city commutes is quite comfortable – the steering is nimble, parking isn't difficult, and the quick acceleration with ample power feels very practical. The Mulsanne drives completely differently – larger and heavier, especially cumbersome during low-speed turns, but becomes super quiet and sofa-like comfortable during high-speed cruising. They're truly not in the same class – the Flying Spur is more approachably positioned with a price tag over 4 million RMB and relatively cheaper maintenance due to shared parts. The Mulsanne represents top-tier luxury with thicker cushions, lower noise levels, and a 5-6 million RMB price tag for pure handcrafted customization (now discontinued but holding higher status). From a practicality standpoint, the Flying Spur wins – similar rear legroom but the Mulsanne's trunk is slightly smaller. Don't be misled by names when choosing: the Flying Spur carries some sportiness suited for personal enjoyment, while the Mulsanne is the genuine chairman-grade experience.