< Go back

Entering the world of high‑end automotive heritage, the Bentley Continental stands out as one of the most celebrated luxury grand tourers of the 20th century. The original 1961 model, forever renowned for its “forty‑one per hour” slogan and its power‑filled V‑8 engine, remains a sought‑after collector’s piece. While the Bentley Continental price varies widely across markets and conditions, enthusiasts and buyers alike share a common curiosity: what is a 1961 Bentley Continental worth, and how does it hold up against its modern counterparts?

• Model year: 1961 (original production) – classic  |  2006  |  2010  |  2020 (refitted)
• Engine: 4.9‑liter (302 HP) – 6‑speed manual or 5‑speed automatic (depending on build)
• Transmission: 6‑speed manual (standard), 5‑speed automatic (optional in 1961)
• Torque: 380 lb‑ft (at 3,500 rpm)
• Drive layout: Front‑engine, rear‑drive (FR) all‑alloy chassis
• Fuel type: Gasoline (premium), 4–ratio carbureted for early models; modern refits often switch to a 4‑barrel carbureted Magnum V‑8
• Dimensions: Length 186 in, Width 78 in, Height 55 in; Wheelbase 118 in
• Weight: 4,200 lb (gross)
• Braking system: Hydraulic drum brakes front and rear (original); many modern conversions install disc brakes for safety compliance
• Suspension: Independent front with leaf springs; rear live axle with Watts linkage and coil springs
• Interior features: Leather upholstery, wooden trim, walnut steering wheel, dual O‑zone climate control (in select refits), wireless hour‑meter and integrated ventilation units
• Electronics: Triumph Lotus “Otis” clutch systems, a unique two‑handed steering wheel (side‑by‑side) adjustable for driver comfort

When you ask the question, Bentley Continental price can seem elusive, because condition, provenance, and provenance play a huge role. The average Bentley Continental 1961 price tends to fluctuate in the range of several thousand to over an eye‑catching six figures, especially for top‑grade, low‑odometer exemplars that have been professionally restored. Meanwhile, used Bentley Continental price spans from roughly $30,000 for heavily worn, short‑lived models to $250,000+ for pristine, fully documented editions.

Depreciation Dynamics

One key question that steers collectors away or draws them in is the Bentley Continental depreciation curve. While luxury classic cars typically retain value better than modern luxury models, the Continental’s history includes notable chunks of depreciation mainly around the breakout years: 1990, 1998, and 2009, when new government regulations and market changes impacted older engines.

• In the first year of ownership, the model typically suffers 15–20% of its value—a “staggering” drop that many include in their investment calculations.
• From years 2–5, depreciation usually slows to 5–8% per year, balancing the allure of rarity with the practicality of high maintenance costs.
• Beyond 5 years, depreciation levels out to roughly 2–3% yearly, as the vehicle shifts from an investment to a lifestyle item.

---

Last 20 car trackeds

Last tracked date	Status	Price	Price rank	Link
5 years ago	used	£129,500.00		Unlock all links