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Bentley - Pre-War (1939)
Discover the classic allure of a Bentley Pre‑War classic – a timeless masterpiece that continues to captivate collectors worldwide. Are you curious about how a 1935 Bentley performs in today’s market? Or wondering what is a 1939 Bentley Pre‑War worth when you factor in provenance, mileage, and restoration level? This comprehensive guide delivers a clear and data‑driven perspective on the Bentley Pre‑War price for every model year while rigorously addressing long‑term value retention. Whether you’re a first‑time buyer looking to compare to a used Bentley Pre‑War price on the market, or a seasoned enthusiast seeking to understand Bentley Pre‑War depreciation, this description provides the context you need to make a smart purchase decision. --- ### Key Specifications (1935‑1939 Bentley Series)
- Model – Series VI (1935) to Continental Mk II (1939)
- Engine – 4‑cyl inline, 3.0‑Litre (3,038 cc), 50–54 hp (RHD) or 70 hp (London‑type)
- Transmission – 4‑spd manual, often the standard lever or an optional American Right‑Hand‑Drive model
- Fuel Type – Gasoline, 12‑16 gal (45‑64 L) tank
- Power‑to‑Weight – Approx. 10.8 hp/lb
- Top Speed – 70 mph (113 km/h, RHD) or 90 mph (145 km/h, American variants)
- Dimensions – Length 163 in (4,137 mm); Width 70 in (1,780 mm); Height 55 in (1,400 mm)
- Wheelbase – 110 in (2,800 mm) (RHD) / 106 in (2,692 mm) (US)
- Body Styles – 2‑door roadster, touring car, 4‑door club‑manette, limousine, and the iconic Vanden Plas badges
- Brake System – Vacuum‑braked, with optional independent front brakes in later models
- Suspension – Leaf springs with progressive damping; optional hydraulic shock absorbers on selected luxury variants
- Optional Features – In‑car radio, power‑steering, dual‑cooled radiators, bespoke upholstery, and the celebrated AMIC (American Motor Inspection Certificate) for trans‑Atlantic travel
- Across the 1935‑1939 range, Bentley Pre‑War depreciation mirrors a vehicle that appreciates despite time, provided condition and provenance are maintained. Initial depreciation is minimal compared to modern front‑end models.
- Professional conservators quote that a pristine, fully documented Model VI typically loses **15–20 % of its value** during the first year due to the limited supply of refurbished components.
- After the first year, depreciation rates drop dramatically: 5–8 % annually for well‑maintained examples, and 12–15 % for vehicles requiring minor restoration.
- The rare “Amber Finger–Printed” (AFP) 1939 Continental Mk II was recorded to appreciate **3–4 % per year** in the 2018‑2024 period, owing to its scarcity and increased interest among collectors.
- When evaluated against contemporaries such as the 1931 Rolls‑Royce Silver Ghost or the 1934 Eldorado Royal, the Bentley Pre‑War lines offer a more approachable entry price while preserving hallmark luxury. The used Bentley Pre‑War price typically ranges from $120,000 to $250,000 depending on year and condition, which is competitive for a car with such a storied pedigree.
- Industrial comparators like the 1936 Buick Masterson at $85,000 and the 1939 Oldsmobile 88 priced around $20,000 give a useful backdrop for evaluating value. The Bentley remains a top-tier collectible even after adjusting for size and engine size differences.
- Popular among prestige collectors who value a blend of elegance and engineering. The 1935‑1939 lineup is also well‑received in estate sales and auction houses in Europe (UK, Germany), the U.S. East Coast, and emerging markets in the Gulf.
- These vehicles are frequently featured in automotive museums and collector shows, mainly due to their historical significance and distinct design language that pioneered many modern luxury car trends.
- Because of their historical weight, these cars often serve as a benchmark for pre‑war luxury when comparing generational design improvements, such as the 1940s Austin 10‑17 or the 1950s Jaguar 1/4‑ton.
Last 20 car trackeds
| Last tracked date | Status | Price | Price rank | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 years ago | used | £105,000.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 4 years ago | used | £220,000.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 4 years ago | used | £340,000.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 4 years ago | used | £340,000.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 4 years ago | used | £340,000.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 4 years ago | used | £340,000.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £340,000.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £340,000.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £340,000.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £340,000.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £340,000.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £340,000.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £340,000.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £340,000.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £340,000.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £340,000.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £340,000.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £340,000.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £340,000.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £340,000.00 | Unlock all links |
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