Bentley Bacalar: fifth example at RM Sotheby’s Dubai suffers 60% depreciation

Gareth Wainwright • June 07, 2026 06:28

In March 2020, when it was first unveiled, the Bentley Bacalar positioned itself as the most exclusive model of the British brand’s modern era. The programme also marked Bentley’s revival of its storied coachbuilding arm, Mulliner, bringing bespoke craftsmanship back to the forefront.

Bentley Bacalar exclusivity and Mulliner craftsmanship

Few Bentleys are as rare as this one: just 12 Bacalars were built, and each car was tailored to an extreme level to meet the most demanding and traditional expectations of the marque’s clientele. The only non-negotiable requirement was that no two Bentley Bacalars could be the same, ensuring true exclusivity.

Although Bentley has never published official figures, it is widely estimated that each of the 12 Bentley Bacalars left the factory costing more than €2 million, before taxes and the less exciting registration-related costs.

RM Sotheby’s Dubai auction and depreciation

Even so, the model’s scarcity did not prevent an almost shocking loss in value, as seen at a recent RM Sotheby’s auction in Dubai.

The fifth Bacalar produced may well have been sold new for more than €2 million, yet the bidding stopped far earlier than expected. The sale was finalised when the bid had only just moved beyond €800 thousand ($876 875), amounting to depreciation of roughly 60%. In other words, it shed more than €1 million in value(!).

That outcome stands in stark contrast to certain other limited-run, special models from rival manufacturers, which more often tend to appreciate over time.

The fifth Bacalar

Among the 12 cars built, this example was the fifth to leave Mulliner. It had just one owner, based in Monaco, and covered only 1131 km. The bodywork was finished in Memphis Red, set off by multiple gloss-black accents and distinctive 22″ wheels.

Under the bonnet sits the familiar 6.0-litre W12, but tuned specifically for the Bacalar, delivering 650 hp and 900 Nm of torque. On this car, Bentley chose to omit any form of roof, emphasising a modern barchetta character designed to maximise driving enjoyment and provide a uniquely immersive sensory experience.

Inside, the Bacalar clearly showcases the level of customisation Mulliner allows. The centrepiece is Vavona wood, taken from the root of an ancient redwood, used across the dashboard and door panels. The upholstery pairs Linen leather with Cricket Ball detailing-a shade close to burgundy-creating a cabin carefully matched to the exterior.

More understated touches further heighten the one-off feel. Hotspur Alcantara, contrasting stitching and satin nickel finishes strengthen the sense of a unique commission. Even the bespoke leather luggage set accompanied the car and was included as part of the auction lot.

Before the sale, in August 2025, this Bentley Bacalar underwent its scheduled three-year service at Bentley Mougins in France, ensuring it was in perfect mechanical condition.