Vehicle Description
1934 marked a pivotal year for American luxury car manufacturers.
By this time, it was clear that the economy would not be improving
any time soon, and many luxury car makers were suffering as a
result. Lincoln, along with its chief rivals Packard and Cadillac,
enjoyed strong financial backing, however, that didn't stop Ford
Motor Company management from making drastic changes to reduce
costs in a tight market. Things were no different at GM, who even
briefly considered cutting Cadillac and LaSalle altogether.
Thankfully, that never came to be, yet it speaks to the dire nature
of the economic conditions. The key to survival was to simplify the
model lines, and the era also spawned the development of mid-priced
models like the Lincoln-Zephyr and Packard 120. Lincoln took the
opportunity to streamline their lineup, introducing a new, less
complicated V12 engine that replaced the two previously available
versions. Essentially an enlarged version of the old KA V12, the
new 414 cubic-inch unit produced 150 horsepower - the same as the
old 447 cubic-inch KB engine. Not only was this new aluminum-head
engine more economical for Lincoln to build, but it was also viewed
as a significant improvement over the old engine, with superior
flexibility, torque, and fuel economy. Chassis options for 1934
were reduced to two, with the Series 521 KA utilizing the 136-inch
chassis, and a 145-inch chassis exclusive to the flagship Series
271 KB. While buyers had fewer frame and engine options, the array
of catalog bodies stretched to seventeen styles for the big KB
alone. Brunn remained a Lincoln favorite, along with Judkins,
Willoughby, Dietrich and LeBaron all offering catalog styles.
Limousines and sedans dominated production, with the sportier open
styles built in relatively minuscule numbers. Presented here is the
gorgeous Dual Cowl Phaeton, one of the rarest of all 1934 Lincoln
KB body styles. Beautifully proportioned and quite sporting for a
Lincoln, the factory catalog did not officially offer this style,
yet two were built to special order by Lincoln's in-house custom
body shop. Interesting features of this elegant body style include
the distinct curved front door windows and rear wind deflectors.
The rear cowl-mounted windscreen can be folded forward or concealed
in a compartment for a cleaner, streamlined look when not carrying
passengers. Records provided by The Henry Ford show this is one of
the two cars built with style number 272-A, and it is believed to
be the sole surviving example. Photos document the car's discovery
in 1977 and its subsequent restoration. Judging by the images, the
Lincoln appeared remarkably complete, with the body looking to be
in particularly good condition. The extensive project is
well-documented through a series of photographs. Importantly, the
body tag appears in photos, confirming this as one of the two dual
cowl phaetons constructed. It is also notable that it retains its
original, numbers-matching V12 engine which was the subject of a
recent rebuild. Presented in a handsome color combination of cream
with burgundy fenders and feature lines, this KB has a bold and
imposing presence. The paint and brightwork have aged gracefully
since the extensive restoration, and the car remains in excellent
condition overall with a very light patina from age and enjoyment.
With the top up or down, it is a lovely automobile, with flowing
lines and a low profile. Fittings include a Greyhound mascot, dual
side-mount spare wheels, and a trunk rack. Lovely dark red leather
covers the seats and interior panels, with taupe carpeting
providing a nice contrast and tying in with the tan canvas
convertible top. The leather is supple and soft, showing some light
creasing consistent with occasional use. Controls, switchgear, and
instrumentation all present in fine condition. The cabin is in very
good order with a charming character that invites regular use.
Regular enjoyment is made possible by the fact that the
matching-numbers V12 was recently rebuilt at great expense.
Powerful and refined, Lincoln's 414-cubic inch alloy-head twelve is
a superb engine, and the perfect match for the sporting coachwork
of this car. The detailing is impressive, with black painted block
and accessories contrasting the highly polished aluminum cylinder
heads and bare alloy crankcase. Running strong and smooth it
delivers the refinement expected of a 30s-era multi-cylinder
engine. Coveted by enthusiasts for their performance and prestige,
the big Lincolns of 1934 remain a popular choice for use on tours
and driving events. This example adds the cachet of being the only
known example to wear this handsome, factory built coachwork. Ideal
for CCCA CARavans, Grand Classics and other club events, this rare
and attractive Lincoln will no doubt turn heads wherever it takes
you. For additional details please view this listing directly on
our website
https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/6453-1934-lincoln-kb-sport-phaeton/