Rolls Royce - Pre 1940 (1939)

Imagine stepping into the driver’s seat of a 1939 Rolls Royce and feeling the timeless blend of engineering excellence and understated luxury. Whether you’re a collector eyeing a “Rolls Royce Pre 1940 price,” a buyer scrolling through listings for a “used Rolls Royce Pre 1940 price,” or simply curious about the worth of a 1939 prewar masterpiece, this overview will give you a clear sense of what drives value for these iconic machines.

Key Specifications – What Makes the 1939 Rolls Royce Stand Out

• Engine: 8‑cyl. 7.8‑litre (7,786 cc) straight‑four cylinder
• Output: Approx. 220 hp (at 3,000 rpm)
• Transmission: 3‑speed manual, torque‑converter as an optional upgrade
• Drive: Front‑wheel drive (conventional for the era)
• Fuel Type: Petrol (regular automotive gasoline)
• Dimensions:
  • Overall length: 210 in (5,334 mm)
  • Width: 70 in (1,778 mm)
  • Height: 64 in (1,627 mm)
  • Wheelbase: 140 in (3,556 mm)
• Weight: Roughly 4,700 lb (2,130 kg) curbweight
• Brakes: Vacuum‑activated 7.5‑inch drum brakes on all wheels
• Suspension: Semi‑elliptical leaf springs front and rear, with hydraulic shock absorbers
• Interior:
  • Leather‑trimmed seats for four passengers
  • Power‑control radiators, manual steering (no power steering)
  • Custom wood veneer dashboards and door panels
• Lighting: 36‑inch, 6‑watt self‑illuminating, 3‑stage headlamps
• Compliance: Meets all 1939 UK road tax and speed limit regulations

Depreciation Insight – How Value Evolves Over Time

When you ask “Rolls Royce Pre 1940 depreciation?” the answer involves a subtle blend of heritage, rarity, and market dynamics.

• Initial Year (Year of Purchase): Like most classic vehicles, a new pre‑1940 Rolls Royce typically loses about 15‑20% of its value in the first year due to the initial dampening of novelty and the high cost of original parts.
• Midlife (10‑15 Years): After 10 years of ownership, depreciation slows dramatically; the vehicle’s status as a historical icon often stabilizes its value, with an average loss of 2‑5% per year.
• Long-Term Collector Market (20+ Years): Many well‑maintained examples see rolls royce pre 1940 depreciation levels dip, and in certain conditions, resale prices can appreciate. Regular maintenance, original parts, and documented provenance largely dictate outcomes.

Overall, retirees can expect the vehicle’s book value to be roughly 25% of its original sale price after ten years, depending on market conditions and state of preservation.

Comparative Context – How Does a 1939 Rolls Royce Measure Up?

When you compare a 1939 Rolls Royce to other pre‑1940 luxury cars like the Bentley 4½‑Litre or the Rolls Royce Silver Cloud I, you’ll notice:

• Performance: Slightly less power than the 1940 Meadows – but the weight and torque provide a smooth drive on today's roads.
• Exclusivity: Roughly 100–125 units produced, making it one of the rarest non‑adventure models of its era.
• Collectibility

  ---

  Last 20 car trackeds

  Last tracked date	Status	Price	Price rank	Link
  4 years ago	used	£49,500.00		Unlock all links
  4 years ago	used	£49,500.00		Unlock all links

  Note that old links may not work