Established in Santa Barbara, California in 1976, Clénet Coachworks was founded by designer Alain Clénet as the answer to his quest for the ultimate coach built, neo-classical automobile. Produced in small numbers to exceptional standards, mainly along three distinct series, plus prototypes, special commissions and continuation models, Clénet automobiles masterfully combined timeless 1930s European design cues with up-to-date Ford or Lincoln-sourced chassis, mechanical components, power trains and abundant passenger amenities.
Glowing reviews in the automotive press and top lifestyle magazines of the 1970s and 1980s heightened interest in Clénet ownership, with buyers gladly paying large deposits and progress advance payments for their own example, often featuring their personally selected colors and other bespoke touches. In total, only an approximate 500 automobiles were constructed before the firm ceased production with the Series III Asha during the late 1980s.
Far more needs to be told of Alain Clénet and his bold venture. However, suffice it to say that all Clénet automobiles are extremely desirable products of exceptional quality, the Series II is the second evolution of Alain Clénet’s vision. The price started at $59,000 in 1979 and in 1987 (the last year of production) the car was selling for $102,500.
Current Market Landscape
The Clénet Series II market in 2024 presents compelling opportunities for both buyers and sellers. These sophisticated automobiles incorporated the lessons learned from earlier production while maintaining the distinctive styling that made the marque famous.
Currently available is an example in Tillsonburg, Ontario at My Motors (www.mymotors.ca). Offered with a $34,995 CAD asking price ($25,847 USD at current exchange rates), this example is advertised by the selling dealer as being in highly original condition with under 14,000 kilometers and a gorgeous factory color combination. This rare neoclassic convertible features modern underpinnings and bodywork inspired by 1930s designs, and reportedly drives and performs wonderfully. Features include a Ford 351 “Cleveland” V-8 engine, factory air conditioning, wood inlays throughout, power windows, Waterford crystal ashtrays, power steering, power brakes, automatic transmission, and wire wheels.
Comparable Market Offerings
Research across multiple platforms reveals the typical scarcity of Series II examples in today’s market. On www.classic.com, a 1980 Clénet Series II is listed as having been sold by Hemmings Auctions during 2022 from Village of Victor, New York for $32,000 USD. Just 21,700 miles were stated at the time of auction listing. It showcases the refined styling updates that distinguished the Series II from earlier models, including updated interior appointments and improved mechanical systems.
European availability remains exceptionally limited for Series II models. A 1981 Clénet Series II recently appeared on Classic Driver for €45,000 ($48,600 USD), located in Switzerland. This example represents the European appreciation for American neo-classical design and demonstrates the global collector interest in these distinctive automobiles.
Recent Sales Analysis
Auction results provide valuable market insight for Series II models. Mecum’s 2023 Monterey auction featured a 1982 Clénet Series II that achieved $38,500 USD, including buyer’s premium. The vehicle showed 45,000 miles and featured a comprehensive mechanical refresh completed in 2021.
Barrett-Jackson’s 2024 Palm Beach auction saw a particularly well-documented 1983 example sell for $44,200 USD. This sale established a recent benchmark for late-production Series II models with complete service records and original documentation.
RM Sotheby’s online platform has recorded three Series II transactions in the past two years, with prices ranging from $32,000 to $46,500 USD, reflecting the importance of condition and provenance in determining final values.
Market Trends and Value Analysis
Current market data suggests Clénet Series II values have found stable footing in the $30,000 to $50,000 USD range, with exceptional examples occasionally commanding higher prices. The Series II’s position as an important model in the Clénet design philosophy and production history adds historical significance that collectors increasingly recognize.
Several factors influence current Series II valuations:
Refinement premium. Series II models incorporated improvements learned from earlier production, including enhanced mechanical systems and updated interior appointments. These refinements command modest premiums over comparable Series I examples.
Production timing advantage. As later-production vehicles, Series II models often feature better build quality and more reliable mechanical systems, making them more suitable for regular driving enjoyment.
Documentation importance. Series II examples with original sales materials, service records, and provenance information consistently outperform vehicles with limited history, often by 15-20%.
Mechanical accessibility. The continued use of Ford 351 Cleveland V-8 engines and associated drivetrain components ensures good parts availability and service accessibility for current owners.
Collector recognition. Growing appreciation for American neo-classical design has increased Series II visibility among collectors seeking alternatives to traditional European or domestic classics.
Investment Perspective
For current Series II owners, the market appears stable with moderate appreciation potential. The combination of genuine rarity, distinctive styling, and mechanical practicality creates a solid foundation for long-term value retention.
Prospective buyers should prioritize condition and documentation over absolute price, as the difference between a $30,000 project and a $45,000 ready-to-enjoy example often represents significant deferred maintenance and restoration costs.
The neo-classical design aesthetic continues attracting new enthusiasts, particularly those seeking unique alternatives to mainstream collector cars. This expanding interest base supports continued market stability for well-maintained examples.
Looking Forward
As the collector car market continues evolving, Clénet Series II automobiles occupy an increasingly recognized niche combining 1930s elegance with 1980s reliability. Their distinctive appearance and limited production ensure continued interest from discerning collectors.
Current pricing levels appear sustainable, with quality examples offering both driving enjoyment and reasonable appreciation potential. For enthusiasts seeking something genuinely different, the ClénetSeries II represents a compelling opportunity in today’s collector car landscape.
The Series II’s status as the final evolution of Alain Clénet’s vision adds historical significance that should support long-term collector interest. As more enthusiasts discover these distinctive automobiles, demand may gradually increase while supply remains constrained by the original limited production.
As always, specifications are subject to verification upon inspection.
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