To Be OFFERED AT AUCTION at RM Sothebys' Fort Lauderdale event, 29
- 30 March 2019.
Estimate:
$70,000 - $90,000
- Showing less than 24,000 miles from new, thought to be
original
- Beneficiary of a fresh engine rebuild in excess of $40,000
- One of two of this body style produced; the only one known to
exist
- Classic Car Club of America (CCCA) Full Classic
- Eligible for CARavans, Grand Classics, and club events
After just two years of production for the KB and one year for the
series KA, Lincoln revised both models for the 1934 model year.
Powering the new models was a single engine - a V-12 of 414.1 cu.
in. which developed 150 hp. All models were considered Ks, though
the Series 521 (or KA) rode a 136-in. wheelbase while Series 271
(or KB) featured the long 145-in. chassis. Fred Waring, Bing
Crosby, and W.C. Fields all purchased new Lincolns during 1934.
The new V-12 was less complex than earlier models while providing
similar horsepower and greater torque. Improvement and updates were
myriad - freewheeling was optional; inside there was a new
instrument panel; and outside all models featured a painted
radiator shell rather than the plated version on previous year's
Lincolns. The familiar Lincoln cloisonn� emblem was now 100% blue
on all models. Brakes were revised with two-shoe servo type
function with molded linings resulting in more efficient stopping
power with softer pedal pressure.
Built on special order only in Lincoln's own shops, the
four-passenger sport phaeton was not listed by Lincoln as being
available, but two were built, including this car according to the
Crestline book The Cars of Lincoln Mercury. It is the only one
known to exist today. Unlike previous models, it is fitted with
curved wind deflectors on both rear doors. The deflectors pivoted
on their forward apex swinging down into the doors when they were
opened. The tonneau windshield could be lowered into its own
compartment behind the rear seat providing a more streamlined
appearance.
Data from the Henry Ford Museum documents this car having been
delivered new on 23 April 1934. Most importantly, it retains its
original V-12 engine which features a fresh engine rebuild costing
in excess of $40,000 - including new aluminum heads. Despite being
an older restoration, it has less than 24,000 miles, which is
believed to be original. KBs from 1937 are among the most desirable
among Lincoln collectors due to the vastly improved V-12 engine
used over earlier models. This CCCA-eligible vehicle is perfect for
CARavans, Grand Classics, shows, and club events and will no doubt
be the darling wherever it appears.To view this car and others
currently consigned to this auction, please visit the RM website at
rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/fl19.
