Lincoln Zephyr, 1940
Lincoln Zephyr
Lincoln Zephyr•
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Chassis No.: H96459
Auction: Monterey 2018
Auction date: August 25, 2018
Lot No.: S150
$80,000 | High bid
- Exterior: Burgundy
- Interior: Tan
- 1 of 1,256 2-passenger Zephyr V-12 Coupes produced in 1940
- Three-year nut and bolt restoration completed in 2010
- 292 CI flathead V-12 engine
- Three 2-barrel carburetors
- Dual exhaust
- Rated at 140 HP
- 3-speed manual transmission
- Optional Columbia 2-speed rear end
- Burgundy with Tan broadcloth interior
- Bumper guards
- Fender skirts
- Clock
- Color matched wheels with chrome caps and rings
- Wide Whitewall tires
- Maintained in a private collection
- Receipts included
The 1940 Lincoln Zephyr is not only a benchmark of the era, but in automotive history as well. A pinnacle of style, engineering, elegance and comfort, the Zephyr came to be under unique circumstances that further add to the allure of early Lincolns. This one is powered by the 292/140 HP flathead V-12 engine fed by three Lincoln-Zephyr 2-barrel carburetors on an aluminum intake manifold with a 3-speed manual transmission sending power to the optional Columbia 2-speed rear end. Tasteful upgrades include a more efficient fuel delivery system, Hildebrant external oil filter, Red’s headers and dual exhaust.
With only 1,256 two-passenger Zephyr V-12 coupes produced in 1940, it’s a few ticks beyond just “rare.” Presented in burgundy with a tan broadcloth interior, it exudes period “Moderne” styling to the letter with gracious curves and flowing lines. A copy of the build record and extensive restoration and maintenance receipts accompany the car. This one features exceptional chrome, stainless and aluminum brightwork, and it is well equipped with twin sideview mirrors, fender skirts, bumper guards and a clock. Rolling on body-color-matched steel wheels wrapped with wide whitewall tires and dressed with chrome trim rings and hubcaps, the overall look is surreal and typifies exemplary design.
The Zephyr line came about as a mid-level model filling the gap between Ford’s Super Deluxe V-8 and Lincoln K-series. Originally designed by Eugene Gregorie, the idea of the Zephyr was dreamed up by Edsel Ford, who wanted to not only bolster sales, but create a line of cars that was sportier and appealing to a younger clientele. The Zephyr worked well, accounting for the largest percent of Lincoln sales between 1937 and 1940, ultimately providing the platform for many other Lincolns to come, including the Continental.
With such low production numbers, exceptional build quality, a V-12 engine and styling that stood out from the crowd, it’s no wonder Lincoln Zephyrs are so interesting to collectors and enthusiasts alike.
