Est. 110hp, 267 cu. in. L-head twelve-cylinder engine, dashboard-mounted three-speed synchromesh transmission, leaf spring suspension, and four-wheel mechanical drum brakes. Wheelbase: 122"
In the mid-thirties Lincoln felt the need to offer a more affordable alternative to the coachbuilt K series cars. Edsel Ford set high standards and left both his Lincoln engineers and the coachbuilders to realize them, applying their skill, knowledge, and experience freely. This was the type of environment needed to foster the conception of such an innovative car as the Zephyr.
The car was truly unique, and created a sensation upon its introduction in 1936. "Teardrop" is the unswerving styling theme of this thoroughly Art Deco car and it is repeated in the front and rear lights, the fender skirts, and in the grill emblem. The teardrop styling and exotic V12 were responsible for making the Zephyr one of the first successful "streamlined" cars on the road, as it quickly became Lincoln's best selling car.
The interior was just as fashion forward as the exterior of the car; it featured a centered circular console with symmetrical driver's side and passenger side glove compartments and ashtrays. The car's styling was so well received, in fact, that it served as the foundation for the 1940 Lincoln Continental, and was also applied to both Mercurys and Fords of the period.
Technically, the Zephyr was leading edge as well. The car itself was the first Ford vehicle to feature unibody construction, and like an airplane, was designed as a stressed structure. As a result, the Zephyr was not only lighter but also stronger than it would have been if it had utilized conventional body on frame construction. The engine was also unique; its architecture was heavily based on Ford's proven flathead V8, which was a significant departure from the overhead valve V12s of Packard and Cadillac.
This particular Zephyr was acquired by its current owner in Santa Barbara, California, where it had been restored within the last twenty years. As presented, it remains in remarkable condition and, with the exception of a very unique dual carburetion system, is apparently factory correct throughout. Limited in their production numbers, surviving Zephyrs have frequently been modified to meet contemporary customization tastes. This example, however, is particularly attractive as it remains unmodified and period correct. In many respects, it is the ultimate form of Art Deco automotive expression and a design icon of its era.
Auction House
RM Auctions 5 West Forest Ave Ypsilanti, MI United States 48197 519.352.4575
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Buyer's Premium
13%
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