Logo

1961 Plymouth Belvedere

The '61 Plymouth Belvedere: a cool cruiser! Its boxy, chrome-heavy design was a hit, appearing in tons of films and TV. A solid, affordable car representing a shift in American tastes, it's a classic example of early '60s style. Think sleek lines and that instantly recognizable grille. A true slice of automotive history!

History of the 1961 Plymouth Belvedere

Emerging during a time of significant design shifts for the Plymouth brand, the 1961 Belvedere was part of the full-size lineup that also included the Savoy and Fury series. Known for its sleek aesthetics and diverse performance features, it captured the imagination of consumers with its unique blend of style and functionality.

Photo of a 1961 Plymouth Belvedere

1961 Plymouth Belvedere Models:

Select the vehicle's model to see the correct data for it.

How Much is Plymouth Belvedere Worth?

Original MSRP :$2,357.00

Outstanding

tooltip
$33,400

Clean

tooltip
$26,600

Average

tooltip
$23,500*

Rough

tooltip
$12,500

1961 Plymouth Belvedere Specs

Body Maker: Plymouth
No. Of Doors: 4
Length: 209.5 inches
Width: 78.6 inches
Height: 56.7 inches
Wheelbase: 118 inches
Weight: 3,460lbs
Type: Own, V8, OHV, Dual throat, Synchronous meshing
Displacement: 317.58 cu. in.
Cylinders: 8
Bore And Stroke: 3 29/32 & 3 5/16 inches
Compression Ratio Standard: 9.0 to 1
Compression Ratio Optional: 10.0 to 1
Horsepower Brake: 230@4400
Horsepower Rated: 48.83
Torque: 340@2400
Main Bearings: 5
Valve Lifters: Mechanical
Block Material: Cast Iron
Engine Number Location: On left front face of block.
Lubrication: Pressure to all bearings excluding wrist pin
Carburetor Make: Carter or Stromberg
Type:
5 Pints
Drive:
Rear wheel drive
Clutch Type:
Single plate dry disc
Clutch Size:
10 inches
Gear Ratios:
3
Gear Ratios First:
2.12 to 1
Gear Ratios Second:
1.43
Gear Ratios Third:
1 to 1
Gear Ratios Fourth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Fifth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Reverse:
2.73
Type: Semifloating
Differential Type: Hypoid
Differential Ratio: 3.58 to 1
Front: Independent torsion bar
Rear: Longitudinal leaf spring
Service Type: 4 wheel hydraulic drum
Service Front Size: 11 inches
Service Rear Size: 11 inches
Emergency Type: On the drive shaft
Tire Size: 7.5 x 14
Spare Location: Trunk
Fuel: 20 Gallons
Oil: 5 Quarts
Rear Differential: 4 Pints
Front Differential: Not applicable
Transfer Case: Not applicable
Serial Number:Starting 321a100001
Total Digits:10
Digits 1:Make
Digits 2:Series & Body style
Digits 3:Model year
Digits 4:Assembly plant
Digits 5-10:Production number
All colors may not be available in all models., Silver Gray Metallic, Carnival Red, Alpine White, Airforce Blue Metallic, Emerald Green Metallic, Fawn Beige, Twilight Turquoise Metallic, Robin Egg Blue, Mint Green, Bronze Metallic, Maize, Lavender Metallic, Coral
Hardtop: Opt
Torque Flite Automatic Transmission: Opt
Power Flite Automatic Transmission: Opt
Power Brakes: Opt
Power Steering: Opt
Pushbutton Radio: Opt

Interested in buying a classic car or selling one?

Access detailed history reports for classic vehicles from hundreds of manufacturers.

  • play
    Accident Records
  • play
    Theft Records
  • play
    Loan & Lien Information
  • play
    Auction Information
  • play
    Salvage Information and more
What is Not Included in a Classic Car Build Sheet

Popular Figures Who Own the 1961 Plymouth Belvedere

Stan Johnson

Imagine stumbling upon a classic car just hanging out in a field. That's precisely what happened with Stan Johnson, who took on the challenge of restoring a four-door Plymouth Belvedere. Despite being a die-hard Chevy fan, Johnson couldn't resist the distinct charm of this iconic model. It's stories like these that breathe life into these vintage vehicles.

Michael Hood

In 1961, Mitty Hood embraced American automotive culture by purchasing a new Belvedere, complete with a robust 313 Poly V8. This purchase wasn't just about owning a car; it was about becoming part of a narrative woven into the cultural tapestry of the 1960s.

The appeal of the Belvedere lies not just in its history but in the stories of those who've owned and cherished these cars over the decades. For many, owning a Belvedere is like embracing a piece of Americana.

Learn more about a classic car: Get Build Sheet by VIN.

Access reproduced classic build sheets to learn more about your classic vehicle details.

  • play
    Standard Specifications
  • play
    Original Base Price
  • play
    Standard & Optional Equipment
  • play
    Exterior & Interior Colors
  • play
    VIN ID & Location description
Classic Build Sheets by VIN

Price Trends and Market Appeal

When you're thinking about to verify that dream car's history, consider this: the Belvedere has maintained a stable presence in the collector market with prices usually ranging depending on condition and rarity. Recent sales indicate that prices can go from $8,500 to as high as $14,700.

Design and Development

Designed by the renowned Italian firm Ghia under the leadership of visionary figures like Giovanni Savonuzzi and Virgil Exner, the Belvedere was crafted to stand out. The collaboration produced a car that reflected a high level of artistic finesse and production economy, appealing to a large audience.

Cultural Impact and Media

It's not just old photos or dusty manuals that keep the Belvedere alive. It's also its appearances in films, TV shows, and even music. Who would have thought a song could immortalize a vehicle? But, if you're into music, you might check out the track "Plymouth Belvedere" by Trish Lester. Talk about nostalgia encapsulated in sound! These cultural references ensure the Belvedere isn't just a car—it's an icon.

How to Verify Your Classic Car's Authenticity

Interested in ensuring your Plymouth Belvedere is the real deal? You might want to consider a or even a to understand all about the model's journey—from production line to your driveway.

Fun Facts about the Belvedere

  • play

    Engine Variety: The Belvedere came with several engine options, catering to a wide range of performance needs and preferences.

  • play

    50s Style: The "Buck-Rodger's style" dashboard gave the interior a futuristic flair, even if some folks thought it slightly impaired visibility.

  • play

    Balance on Roads: While not a speed demon, its comfortable handling at highway speeds made it a decent road companion.

Interested in Buying or Selling a Classic Car?

Understanding a vehicle's backstory can immensely help in buying or selling. Here's what you should look for in a report:

  • play

    Accident Records

  • play

    Theft Records

  • play

    Loan & Lien Information

  • play

    Auction Information

  • play

    Salvage Information and more.

The value of a classic car isn't just in its physical form but also in its backstory, often revealed through comprehensive vehicle history reports. For your next purchase or sale, consider using for insights that can make a world of difference.

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.

Classic Decoder App

Download The Classic Decoder App now.

Some unique features include:

  • play
    Support all classic VIN lengths from 5 to 13 digits
  • play
    Support classic cars produced from 1910 – 1980
  • play
    Online Garage features – to add and manage your vehicles
  • play
    24/7 Customer Support
  • play
    Easy onboarding for first-time users

Explore Plymouth Belvedere from Other Years

Frequently Asked Questions

Well, the '61 Belvedere? It's a real looker, you know? Think sharp fins, a long hood, and that iconic, almost aggressive grille. It's instantly recognizable, even to folks who aren't exactly car nuts. The body style itself is pretty distinctive for its era; you'll find a number of variations, from two-door hardtops to four-door sedans. And, of course, it's a Plymouth, so you get that classic American muscle car vibe — a bit more understated than some, perhaps, but definitely cool. They're kind of like a well-tailored suit – classic and stylish without being flashy.

Okay, so under the hood, you had quite a few choices, depending on how much oomph you wanted. The base engine was usually a relatively modest slant-six, a workhorse that's known for being fairly reliable; think of it as the sensible everyday driver option. But, if you craved some extra power – and let's be honest, who didn't back then? – you could bump up to a V8. These V8s ranged in size and power, naturally. Some were pretty gutsy, offering a serious kick in the pants. Selecting the right one really depended on your needs and, frankly, your budget; it was a big decision back then, just like picking a college major!

Finding a pristine, showroom-condition '61 Belvedere? That's akin to finding a needle in a haystack – a very large, rusty haystack. Many have succumbed to the ravages of time and the elements. However, you can still find decent examples out there, though you might need to do some searching. Your best bet is checking classic car shows, online forums, and specialized dealerships. Be prepared to pay a pretty penny for a well-maintained one. The price will vary depending on the condition, modifications, and overall desirability of the particular vehicle; think of it as an investment, like a really cool piece of art.

Restoration costs? Oh boy, that's a loaded question! It really depends on how much work the car needs, and that can be extremely variable. A quick once-over might cost a few hundred bucks, maybe a thousand, but a full-blown, ground-up restoration could easily run you into the tens, or even hundreds of thousands of dollars! It's like remodeling a house; you start with a small budget and things just balloon. Factor in the cost of parts – some are easy to find, others... not so much. It's a project that requires a significant financial commitment, so be prepared.

Like any classic car, there are potential issues to consider. Common problems often involve the electrical system – those older cars can have some finicky wiring. The brakes, suspension, and engine can also require attention over time, but that's nothing unusual. It's pretty standard stuff for cars of this vintage, so don't panic. However, thorough inspection before purchase is absolutely critical. If possible, take it to a mechanic specializing in classic cars; they'll know exactly what to look for. It's an investment, you want to make sure it's a sound one.