1961 Dodge Lancer
The '61 Dodge Lancer? A compact cool cat! Its sleek, sporty design stood out, a bit upscale for its class. Not a huge cultural icon like some muscle cars, but it represented Dodge's move into the growing compact market. Think clean lines and a sophisticated vibe for the time.
Decode Classic VINs to Get Vehicle History Report and Build Sheet
Discovering the Classic Charm of the 1961 Dodge Lancer
Fancy a trip back to the 1960s, when cars were more than just a means of transport? Let's talk about the 1961 Dodge Lancer—a symbol of a nostalgic time when American sedans crafted a distinct identity. It may not top the list in today's marketplace, but honestly, the memories it holds are priceless.
1961 Dodge Lancer Models:
Select the vehicle's model to see the correct data for it.
How Much is Dodge Lancer Worth?
Original MSRP :$1,993.00
Outstanding
Clean
Average
Rough
1961 Dodge Lancer Specs
Interested in buying a classic car or selling one?
Access detailed history reports for classic vehicles from hundreds of manufacturers.
Accident Records- Theft Records
- Loan & Lien Information
- Auction Information
- Salvage Information and more
History of the 1961 Dodge Lancer
The 1961 Dodge Lancer was more than a sleek, stylish vehicle—it was a part of Chrysler's effort to dominate the mid-size market. With its striking round taillights and a full-width grille, it was an elegant sibling to the less flashy Dodge Valiant. Offered in body styles such as two-door and four-door sedans, this car was available in two trims: the base 170 and the more upscale 770.
It roared to life with a slant-6 engine, capable of making you feel like the king (or queen) of the road. And if you were feeling adventurous, a Hyper-Pak option could supercharge your drive—literally.
Learn more about a classic car: Get Build Sheet by VIN.
Access reproduced classic build sheets to learn more about your classic vehicle details.
- Standard Specifications
- Original Base Price
- Standard & Optional Equipment
- Exterior & Interior Colors
- VIN ID & Location description
Performance Highlights
Talking speed? At the 1962 NHRA Winternationals, the Dodge Lancer stepped up in a big way, clinching the C/FX class win. With a Hyper-Pak-equipped model zooming down the quarter-mile track in just about 15.67 seconds, it wasn't just any drive; it was a statement.
Famous Figures Who Own a 1961 Dodge Lancer
It's not just about what the Dodge Lancer can do, but who has taken the wheel. This car owns a chapter in the stories of some jaw-dropping names:
Bill Gates
Yep, even the tech wizard himself had a moment with the Dodge Lancer. Known for his collector's eye, Gates has ties to this vehicle, confirming its place among those who appreciate a true classic.
Ken Griffey Jr.
In the world of baseball, Ken Griffey Jr. is legend. Owning a 1961 Dodge Lancer adds another notch to his belt, showcasing that the car's appeal hits home run after home run with people across the board.
1961 Dodge Lancer Gallery
Interested in Buying or Selling a Classic Car?
Considering a stroll down memory lane by buying or selling a classic car like the Dodge Lancer? Before you do, here's a little wisdom for your journey: grab a vehicle history report and build sheet. These documents are your ticket to understanding the reality behind that gleaming exterior. Classic Decoder can help you with:
Accident Records
Theft Records
Loan & Lien Information
Auction Information
Salvage Information and more
Sound advice, right?
Pop Culture Presence
Movies, music, television—the Dodge Lancer made its mark. It wasn't just a car; it was a celebrity in its own right. Whether cruising through scenes of youthful rebellion or suburban life, its presence was a nod to the era's spirit.
Price Records Over the Years
In April 2025, a well-maintained Lancer 170 was pegged at about $9,100—a testament to its value, not just in dollars, but in the ongoing narrative of American classic cars.
Classic Car Tools You Should Know
Enthralled by these classics? It's smart to do a classic car VIN lookup to dive into a car's past, especially for owners gazing at a pre-1981 VIN . Also, verifying a 13 digit VIN check can be crucial if that's what you need.
Owning a Dodge Lancer is like holding a slice of automotive history. Its performances—both on the track and in the public's imagination—remained impactful long after new models replaced it. In essence, this car offers more than just transit; it's a symbol of an era where the drive meant more than the destination. Isn't that what makes classic cars irresistible?
Ready to hit the road with a piece of history?
Classic Car VIN Lookup App |Now available on both Android and iOS!
At Classic Decoder, we believe that developing a mobile app is a great way to extend our classic car data solution hub to as many users as possible across the globe. Our app is built with users and precision in mind. It holds the key to unlocking the history and details of any retro car at your fingertips. It also comes with fascinating and user-friendly features that make it stand out from other mobile apps designed for this purpose.
The Classic Decoder app lets you decode and lookup any classic VIN in a flash. Access accurate vehicle information and history, make an informed decision faster, and buy and trade in classic cars with confidence.
Download The Classic Decoder App now.
Some unique features include:
- Support all classic VIN lengths from 5 to 13 digits
- Support classic cars produced from 1910 – 1980
- Online Garage features – to add and manage your vehicles
- 24/7 Customer Support
- Easy onboarding for first-time users
Explore Dodge Lancer from Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
The 1961 Dodge Lancer, a real head-turner back in its day, boasted a few different engine options; you could get a punchy 145 cubic inch slant-six, which was pretty standard, or if you were feeling a bit more adventurous, there was a sprightly 225 cubic inch slant-six, both available with either a manual or an automatic transmission – slick, huh? Think of it like choosing between a zippy scooter and a comfortable cruiser. The body styles? Well, you had a choice of a two-door sedan or a four-door sedan; pretty straightforward. It was a compact car, mind you, so don't expect a boatload of space, but it was a good-looking, relatively economical choice for its time. That's a pretty good overall picture, right?
Compared to other compacts of '61, the Lancer held its own, you know? It wasn't exactly a speed demon, but it wasn't a slug either. The slant-six engines, while not the most powerful things on the road, offered decent fuel economy; a real plus back then, especially with gas prices, if you remember them. Think of it like this: it was a reliable workhorse, not a show pony; practical and dependable. Its handling was pretty decent for the era, though, of course, it's not going to handle like a modern car. You'll need to adjust your expectations a bit, as it's not exactly a sports car. But hey, for a classic, its performance characteristics are pretty decent.
Like any classic car, the 1961 Dodge Lancer has its quirks; no surprise there. Common issues include electrical gremlins – those can be a real pain! – and potential carburetor problems. The braking system might require some attention, too, given its age. Basically, you'll need a good mechanic to assist in keeping her running, but that's part of the charm of owning a classic, right? You'll develop a strong relationship with your local mechanic, that's for sure. Expect to do some maintenance, and this should be reflected in your budget. Oh, and rust; don't even get me started on rust! Check for that carefully before you buy.
The value of a 1961 Dodge Lancer varies wildly, depending on its condition – a seriously restored model can fetch a pretty penny (although the price will depend on a lot of things including how well the car was restored), while one that needs major work will naturally command a lower price. It's really a case-by-case basis; condition is key. Think of it like buying a house: a fully renovated house sells for much more than one that needs a lot of work, doesn't it? To figure out a general idea of pricing, I would suggest checking online resources dedicated to classic car valuations – they offer some helpful guidance.
Finding parts for a classic can be a quest, but not impossible. You've got a few options: online classic car parts suppliers, specialty shops that cater to classic cars, and even some parts might be available from used car parts yards. You might even be lucky enough to find some fellow enthusiasts with parts for sale. It's a bit like treasure hunting, really. But with persistence, you'll find the gems you need to keep your beauty running smoothly!