The Lincoln-Zephyr was a line of luxury cars produced by Lincoln from 1936-42. When production resumed after World War II, the Zephyr part of the name would be dropped as of 1948. The car would serve as the basis of the first Lincoln Continental, the longest-running nameplate of the brand. It was distinguished by its use of a V12 engine rather than V8s employed by the company’s competitors. This ’47 L-Z has been parked in a garage for the past half dozen years and looks to be in good restorable condition. Located in Chicago, Illinois, this once-proud Lincoln is available here on craigslist for $7,000. Another tip from Barn Finder Pat L.!
With its modern styling and aerodynamic design, the Zephyr part of the name was derived from the Greek word “zephyrus” or the “god of the west wind.” It followed in the footsteps of the less successful Chrysler Airflow line of cars. The L-Z lit a fire in the showrooms of Lincoln dealers around the country and carried the brand forward to the 1950s. Production numbers were never large by Ford standards, but the L-Z would account for a generous portion of the division’s sales.
This ’47 edition is different from other Lincoln-Zephyrs you might find because it no longer has its 267 cubic-inch, flat-head V12 motor that produced 110 hp. For reasons not mentioned, an Oldsmobile Rocket V8 is there now, which went into production in 1949. It could very well be a motor built as late as 1990. The body on this car looks clean and straight and the black paint might look decent once the car is cleaned up. At least one window looks to be missing. But the seller will have to revive the Olds engine to see how drivable the car might be.
I would love to buy this if I had anther space in my garage. I think they are beautiful.
I once knew a brilliant restorer, working out of his garage in California, who worked on these exclusively and always converted to Olds engines. His driver was a burgundy convertible, tastefully modified for modern roads and driving,
and was terrific. We’re all old now, and I don’t know where he is. Thanks for the memories; if I had the room I’d probably get serious about it.
The smart move was to remove that awful V12 Ford made. Most opted to get a Merc engine so they could still cruise around without the problems associated with the V12.
Also don’t forget the Model-A derived antiquated suspension. Ol’ Man Henry was just too resistant to change. Nice looking car; WAY too many compromises.
These are BIG cars, photos, even on the net, do not prepare you for them. The V-12 had issues, many were replaced by Caddy and Olds V-8’s. These, the sedans, and the regular convertibles do not command the premium prices the Continentals do with the lower stance but otherwise the same basic cars.
Are only the post-war Continentals AACA certified classics, or are all the Lincolns up to 1948 now in this exclusive “club?”
What problems did the V12 s have?
My parents drove cross country in tandem with another Navy couple who had a V12 Lincoln. They had to stop every few miles to let the Lincoln cool down.
The pre-war front ends were much prettier –
https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/AZ15/Arizona/lots/r140-1938-lincoln-zephyr-convertible-coupe/181457
Until the late Fifties, Olds V-8s were the hot ticket, beginning with the 303. Caddies were popular, too, but there were more Oldsmobiles in the junkyards. Still remember a neighbor’s metallic blue 98 convertible with a 394 and glass packs.
That ’38 convertible is one great looking motor car in every respect, especially with the V 12 engine.
Kurt, do a search on the V -12, you will get an education.
Wikipedia lists all the issues the prewar V12s had, but added that these issues were addressed in postwar engines and that they were quite reliable. Makes me wonder if a post WW2 V12 could even be found as they sound rare.
My parents drove cross country in tandem with another Navy couple who had a V12 Lincoln. They had to stop every few miles to let the Lincoln cool down.