Vehicle Description
The prestigious Model K served as Lincoln Motor Car Company's
flagship model throughout the 1930s. When introduced in 1931, the K
hit the showrooms featuring a new 145-inch wheelbase chassis and a
348.8 cubic inch V8 engine. While the V8 provided more than
adequate performance for most clients, Lincoln felt the pressure
from Cadillac and Packard to offer an engine of greater than eight
cylinders. Ford Motor Company responded to the Cadillac V12 and
Packard Twin-Six with its own V12 engine for the Model KB in 1932.
With that, the K-series then split into two separate ranges, with
the KA carrying over the V8 engine and the KB featuring the new 448
cubic inch V12. The early years of the Great Depression meant slow
sales, but the V12 had a halo effect on the rest of the range, and
it remained a vital part of the Lincoln lineup throughout the
1930s, keeping the company at the sharp end of the luxury car
market even during these difficult economic times. By 1937, the
junior model Zephyr had joined the range as a bridge between
top-line Fords and the prestigious Model K. The Zephyr was also
powered by a V12 engine, albeit of smaller displacement. Despite
decreasing demand, Lincoln continued to offer the Model K for
high-end buyers, who now had a choice of 17 different custom body
styles. The basic styling was simple but elegant, with art-deco
inspired teardrop headlamps that were faired-in to the streamlined
fenders and V-shaped windscreens were fitted on all standard
bodies. On the mechanical side, the 414 cubic inch flathead V-12
engine was updated with hydraulic lifters, and a revised camshaft
then placed further forward in the chassis to allow for more
passenger room. Buyers could select from the 136" wheelbase chassis
(with six catalog bodies) or the impressive 145" chassis with a
dizzying array of seventeen different bodies available. From his
position at the helm of Lincoln, Edsel Ford entrusted a select
number of coachbuilders to supply catalog bodies for the beautiful
new flagship. Edsel had a keen eye for style, and he partnered with
four independent coachbuilders - Judkins, Brunn, Willoughby, and
LeBaron - whom he had determined could offer the type of
craftsmanship and sophisticated style that suited the exclusive
Model K. In an effort to reduce overlap between the body companies,
each firm worked within their respective specialty. For example,
Judkins focused on closed sports sedans and coupes. Brunn offered
their distinct Touring Cabriolet and Convertible Sedan (among
others) while Willoughby of Utica, New York offered a diverse
portfolio including the razor-edge Panel Brougham, streamlined
Sports Sedan, and the exquisitely proportioned Seven-Passenger
Touring Car. Willoughby cars found particular favor with wealthy
buyers, who appreciated their superior craftsmanship. Even with the
prestige of a V12 and marvelous streamline styling, Lincoln sold
just 977 units of the Model K that year, as buyers favored the less
expensive Zephyr. This lovely 1937 Lincoln K is one of just seven
cars fitted with Willoughby's Seven-Passenger Touring coachwork, of
which only three are known to survive. This automobile comes to us
from the estate of a prominent collector of Classic Era
automobiles, and it presents in tidy, attractive condition,
benefitting from recently sorted mechanicals. He purchased this car
out of Connecticut in 2017 from a long-term owner, who had the car
in his possession for over sixty years. Upon acquiring the Lincoln,
it was shipped directly to the workshop of expert restorer Fran
Roxas in Chicago for a complete rebuild of the 414 cubic-inch V12
engine. A breathtaking car in style and scale, this Lincoln K is
ideally suited for touring. The body wears a pleasing patina in
contrast with the fully detailed engine. It is believed the car was
repainted in approximately 2001, however, some imperfections and
touch-ups are visible in areas. The overall appearance is that of a
well-loved driver's car that is full of character. The car rides on
original-style steel artillery wheels with chrome hubcaps and wide
whitewall tires. Willoughby's gorgeous coachwork is left relatively
unadorned, with just a Greyhound mascot and dual side-mount spare
wheels (with body-color covers) checked off the accessory list. The
sweeping lines of the coachwork are mirrored in the shape of the
convertible top and the unique cut-down side windows. With a
145-inch wheelbase, it is a large car, yet beautifully proportioned
and elegant in profile. The condition of the interior aligns well
with the cosmetics, featuring black leather upholstery on the all
seats, including the hide-away opera seats. Interior panels and
door cards are also trimmed in the same material, maintained in
similarly good condition, with an inviting, appealing character to
it. Fittings, switches, and controls all appear in mostly original
condition. The dash does show some cracking and flaking in the
finish; however, the original instruments seem to be in good order.
The tan canvas top is in excellent condition, and it includes
fitted canvas boot and a set of matching side curtains. The
period-correct 414 cubic-inch V12 is entirely rebuilt and detailed
to a very high standard by Mr. Roxas. The alloy cylinder heads are
polished to a mirror finish, and ancillaries such as the air
cleaner wear gorgeous gloss-black paint. Correct plumbing and
fittings feature throughout the engine bay. Aside from looking
outstanding, the engine runs beautifully and feels very much "on
the button" and ready for enjoyment. The remainder of the chassis
and undercarriage appears very original and mostly unrestored. Some
surface corrosion can be found; however, it appears sound and in
keeping with a drivable, usable tour car. With only three examples
known to exist, this dramatic Willoughby-bodied Lincoln is sure to
be a welcome addition to virtually any Classic Era collection. With
its fresh, professionally rebuilt engine and understated charm,
this approved Full Classic is well-suited to use in CCCA CARavan
tours, or numerous other events where the smooth and effortless
power of the Lincoln K can be fully appreciated.
