Vehicle Description
In the early 1930s, Edsel Ford, president of the Ford Motor Company, recognized that a new line was needed to fill the-ever widening gap between top line Fords and the ultra-exclusive, coachbuilt Lincoln K series. Introduced in 1935 as a 1936 model, the all-new Lincoln-Zephyr was meant to be a lower-priced and less expensive alternative to the full-fledged Lincoln, yet still very much a luxury car with its V12 engine and impeccable style. Edsel Ford teamed up with his masterful stylist Eugene “Bob” Gregorie, to pen a gorgeous streamlined body, characterized by its pronounced prow and flowing waterfall-like grilles and exquisite but sparse detailing. It is often considered to be the first commercially successful American streamlined car when compared to the relative failure of the Chrysler Airflow. Particularly in coupe form, the Lincoln Zephyr is seen by many as one of the most beautiful mass-produced American automobiles of all time. But the Zephyr’s beauty was more than skin deep; it was a true luxury car with plenty of equipment and a prestigious twelve cylinder engine under the hood. The John Tjaarda-designed 70 degree V12 was derived from the Ford Flathead V8, and boasted 110hp from 267 cubic inches. Like most V12s of the period it was noted for its smoothness and quiet operation as much for performance. World War II put an end all Ford car production, including the Lincoln-Zephyr, but when car building resumed in 1946 the Zephyr nameplate was dropped though the platform lived on through 1948 as part of the regular Lincoln lineup.
Built for the 1938 model year, this extremely handsome Zephyr wears seldom-seen and attractive Convertible Sedan bodywork. The styling is a masterpiece, with gracefully rounded fenders and a subtly tapering tail that mimics the pointed nose. This is one seriously gorgeous style piece. Subject to an older but comprehensive restoration, this Zephyr remains in very attractive condition and appears to have been only lightly used since it was restored. It is finished in gorgeous black paint with a tan convertible top, an elegant combination that highlights the iconic Deco design, particularly in that fantastic oval rear window. The paint quality is excellent and the car presents very well with tight and consistent panel fit and lustrous brightwork.
The cabin is trimmed in brown buttoned leather with matching door panels and brown bindings on the oatmeal-colored carpets. The leather is in excellent condition, again showing very little in the way of use and quality restoration work. One highlight of the Zephyr interior is the incredible, Art-Deco dash which features a prominent center console-like design that goes straight to the floor and a shift lever that sprouts from beneath the dash – not unlike that of a Citroen 2CV. With its bold geometric shapes and linear detailing, the cabin is pure Deco style. The tan canvas top is in excellent order, presenting clean and fitting snug, and is equally beautiful in the up or down position. The L-head V12 presents nicely in the engine bay, showing some signs of use but generally tidy and well-kept, as well as properly detailed with period correct fittings and hardware. It runs very well, making this a gorgeous driver or tour car.
Beyond the high quality restoration on this rare and desirable Zephyr, the design is worthy of hours of careful study. Eugene Gregorie’s careful attention to detail is beyond reproach and this truly is one of the greatest American automobile designs of all time. We are very pleased to offer such a lovely and cherished example, and we are sure you will delight in its charms, both on the road and when stepping back to soak in its remarkable style.
