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Rolls Royce

Rolls Royce - Pre 1940 (1913)

Discover the timeless allure of the 1913 Rolls Royce – a pre‑1940 masterpiece that continues to captivate collectors worldwide. The Rolls Royce Pre 1940 price varies considerably based on condition, provenance, and regional demand, but knowing the baseline helps you gauge whether a particular vehicle is a worthy investment.

  • Model & Year: 1913 Rolls Royce Silver Ghost and earlier prototypes
  • Engine: 6 L (6133 cc) straight‑6, cast‑iron block, dual overhead camshafts
  • Power Output: 30 – 45 hp at 2 500 rpm (varies by configuration)
  • Transmission: 4‑speed manual, column shift with optional hand‑shift
  • Fuel Type: Petrol (gasoline)
  • Drive Type: Front‑wheel drive, rigid axle with Leaf springs
  • Chassis: Steel tubular frame, steel body panels
  • Wheelbase: 7 ft 8 in (2350 mm)
  • Length: 11 ft 6 in (3515 mm)
  • Width: 6 ft 2 in (1880 mm)
  • Height: 5 ft 8 in (1730 mm)
  • Weight: Approx. 1 820 kg (4 020 lb)
  • Original Braking System: Mechanical rim brakes on all wheels
  • Seating Capacity: 4–6 (driver, front passenger, two rear passengers, optional extra passenger)
  • Exhaust: Dual exhaust manifolds, copper pipes
  • Suspension: Front: leaf springs; Rear: leaf springs, all with solid axles
  • Gearcase: Gearbox housed within the engine block, manual shift lever
  • Visibility: Dual headlights, side windows, small rear window
  • Other Features: Four‑tire safety chain, interchangeable spare wheel

When evaluating the used Rolls Royce Pre 1940 price, collectibility hinges upon factory sheets, original paint, continuity of service history, and the vehicle’s mechanical soundness. Many pre‑1940 Rolls Royce models exit the lot as well‑maintained mechanical and had been part of a single owner’s string of cars. Proprietors with documented itineraries often find their cars commanding higher prices.

Depreciation Insights for a Classic Treasure

The Rolls Royce Pre 1940 depreciation curve is markedly different from modern luxury cars. Here are realistic estimates based on expert appraisal and auction data:

  • First Year: Typically loses 15–20% of its initial valuation due to the novelty of first‑hand ownership and the costs of initial restoration.
  • Second Year: Further 10–12% depreciation as the vehicle establishes provenance.
  • Third–Fifth Year: Stabilization period; depreciation slows to 5–8% annually, reflecting an accepted market value.
  • Beyond Five Years: Value may plateau or increase as the automobile becomes a rare piece of automotive history, assuming it remains in pristine condition.

For example, a 1913 model with factory sheets and an unbroken ownership chain at the time of sale might start at an $80,000 valuation in the first year. After the first year’s depreciation, the car would be worth roughly $64,000 – but market conditions (e.g., a surge in the collector’s market) could dramatically alter the figure.

Comparative Context

Compared to similar cars from the same era, the 1913 Rolls Royce sits in a distinct niche: