Jaguar vs Bentley
The ultimate test of endurance and innovation.
The 24 Hours of Le Mans is an endurance sports car race held annually near the city of Le Mans, France. First run in 1923, it is the oldest active endurance racing event in the world and is widely considered one of the world's most prestigious races.
Quick Facts
- Bentley key model
- Bentley 4½ Litre and Speed Six
- Major outcome
- Jaguar's dominance in 1955-1957; Bentley's last win was in 1930
Lore & Background
Bentley won Le Mans in the 1920s, with its last victory before 2003 coming in 1930.
Reader's Guide
The race is won by the car that covers the greatest distance in 24 hours. Cars can achieve speeds of 366 kph, and reached 407 kph on the main straight in 1988, leading to the addition of more chicanes. The race is organized by the Automobile Club de l'Ouest (ACO) and held on the Circuit de la Sarthe.
Did You Know?
- The record distance covered is 5410 km, set in 2010.
- The race is part of the Triple Crown of Motorsport (with the Monaco Grand Prix and Indianapolis 500) and the Triple Crown of endurance racing (with the 24 Hours of Daytona and 12 Hours of Sebring).
- Since 2012, the race has been part of the FIA World Endurance Championship.
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