The 1928 Lincoln 165 Dietrich Coupe Roadster stands as a testament to the golden age of bespoke American coachbuilding, successfully representing the artistic collaboration between Lincoln and Dietrich Inc. With only 580 units produced, this specific roadster serves as a rare and authoritative link to the ultra-luxury market of the late 1920s. A recent restoration has revived its striking visual presence, ensuring that every mechanical and aesthetic detail adheres to the high standards of the Henry Ford record. This 1928 Lincoln 165 Dietrich Coupe Roadster successfully manages to command attention through its sheer scale and the unmistakable craftsmanship of a bygone era.
Coachbuilt Dietrich Bodywork and Greyhoud Mascot
The exterior visual character of this 1928 Lincoln 165 Dietrich Coupe Roadster is defined by its dramatic Black and Yellow two-tone palette, which emphasizes the sweeping curves of its Dietrich-bodied silhouette. Every detail, from the wire wheels wrapped in whitewall tires to the rear-mounted spare, successfully reflects the uncompromising luxury of the pre-Depression era. A leaping greyhound hood mascot sits atop the radiator, serving as a beacon of high-speed refinement and elite social status. Lincoln running board step plates and brightwork accents provide a sophisticated contrast to the bold paint, ensuring the car remains a standout on any concours lawn. This visual package successfully celebrates the hand-crafted nature of early 20th-century automotive design.
Tan Leather Cabin and Classic Rumble Seat
Inside the cabin, the 1928 Lincoln 165 Dietrich Coupe Roadster features a refined Tan environment that prioritizes the tactile experience of the pilot and passengers. The interior materials have been meticulously refreshed, ensuring the wood and leather surfaces feel as prestigious today as they did in 1927. For additional guests, a rear rumble seat offers an authentic open-air experience that was once the height of stylish weekend motoring. Every control, from the manual gear lever to the period-correct instrumentation, has been restored to functional perfection under current ownership. This cockpit successfully manages to be both an executive workspace and a luxurious retreat, offering a sense of occasion that modern vehicles simply cannot replicate.
385 CI V-8 Power and Delco Ignition
Performance is anchored by the substantial 385-cubic inch V8 engine, a powerplant that solidified Lincoln’s reputation for smooth and effortless torque. This high-displacement engine delivers a factory benchmark of 90 hp/91 PS and 220 lb-ft/298 Nm of torque, funneled through a robust manual transmission that requires a deliberate and authoritative hand. The car features a Delco ignition system and has been maintained with a collection of recent restoration receipts to verify its mechanical health. On the road, the Lincoln offers a visceral and authoritative feel, with the V8 provide a steady, rhythmic cadence that was the envy of its contemporaries. This drivetrain successfully ensures that the 1928 Lincoln 165 Dietrich Coupe Roadster remains a capable and reliable participant in vintage touring events.
| Technical Overview | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 385 CI V-8 |
| Transmission | Manual Transmission |
| Output | 90 hp/91 PS & 220 lb-ft/298 Nm (Factory Benchmark) |
| Coachbuilder | Dietrich Inc. (Body No. 11-2844) |
| Production | 1 of 580 Built |
| Chassis No. | 46871 |
Dietrich Provenance and Henry Ford Record
The market for Dietrich-bodied Lincolns has remained remarkably stable, as these cars are considered blue-chip assets in the world of pre-war collecting. This 1928 Lincoln 165 Dietrich Coupe Roadster is particularly significant due to its documented production date of October 21, 1927, and its inclusion in the Henry Ford Record. With an auction estimate of $70,000 to $90,000, it successfully represents a high-value opportunity for enthusiasts who appreciate the intersection of industrial power and bespoke art. Recent restoration efforts have stabilized its long-term investment potential, making it a secure and prestigious addition to any world-class collection. It successfully stands as a premier example of American coachbuilding excellence at the Indy 2026 auction.
A Bespoke Relic of American Automotive Nobility
In summary, the 1928 Lincoln 165 Dietrich Coupe Roadster is a masterclass in pre-war engineering, successfully merging a high-displacement V8 with the timeless elegance of a Dietrich body. It successfully offers a visceral and authoritative experience that remains a benchmark for the ultra-luxury vintage segment. From the glint of the greyhound mascot to the rhythmic operation of the manual gearbox, every mile is a celebration of Lincoln’s early engineering ambition. This Roadster is more than just a classic car; it is a rolling testament to an era of uncompromised craftsmanship and social prestige. It is ready to provide its next owner with the unmistakable pride of owning a true coachbuilt legend.
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Source: mecum.com
