The 1929 Lincoln Model L represents the final, most refined era of Henry Leland’s inaugural Lincoln series before the company transitioned to the Model K. This specific example is exceptionally rare, being one of just 88 units produced for the model year featuring Sport Touring bodywork by the esteemed Locke & Company of Rochester, New York. Originally sold in Long Beach, California, the car underwent a comprehensive refurbishment that preserved its high-status identity while ensuring its mechanical longevity. By merging Leland’s obsession with Cadillac-derived precision and the artistic flair of independent coachbuilders, this Lincoln stands as an authoritative survivor of the Roaring Twenties’ most prestigious automotive tier.
Coachbuilt Locke Bodywork and Chrome Plated Artistry
The visual character of this Sport Touring model is defined by its long-wheelbase silhouette and a striking two-tone finish of maroon with black fenders. Locke & Company’s design is emphasized by chrome-plated nickel brightwork and a host of period-correct functional tech, including a central Pilot Ray driving lamp that turns with the front wheels. The exterior is further adorned with a greyhound radiator mascot, cowl lamps, and dual side-mount spares topped with mirrors. A tan soft top with exposed wood bows and a beveled glass rear window provides protection from the elements, while a fold-down rear luggage rack with a storage trunk increases the car’s grand touring utility.
Red Leather Sophistication and Dual Windshield Luxury
Inside the cabin, the 1929 Lincoln offers a level of opulence that benchmarks its market positioning against peers like Packard and Pierce-Arrow. The interior is sumptuously trimmed in red leather upholstery, extending from the split front bench to the rear passenger compartment. A standout feature is the secondary folding glass windshield with polished frames, designed to protect rear-seat occupants while they utilize the dual fold-down jump seats. The driver interfaces with a woodgrain four-spoke steering wheel and a polished metal dashboard housing barrel-type Waltham instrumentation. Storage is addressed through integrated door pockets and a bulkhead cabinet, reflecting the era’s focus on elegant, long-distance travel.
Leland Designed V8 Power and Mechanical Precision
Mechanical authority is provided by a 385ci V8 engine, which features a unique 60-degree angle between cylinder banks and fork-and-blade connecting rods. This sophisticated design allowed for a shorter, more rigid crankshaft, resulting in a factory rating of 90 hp / 91 PS. Power delivery is managed by a three-speed manual transmission, providing a narrative of smooth, torque-rich progress through the rear wheels. Recent technical attention in 2026 included a rebuild of the water pump and the installation of replacement fuel lines and an exhaust hanger to maintain peak operational reliability. The chassis utilizes a 136-inch wheelbase with solid axles and leaf springs, supported by four-wheel mechanical drum brakes.
Technical Specifications
| Technical Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 385ci 60-Degree V8 |
| Transmission | 3-Speed Manual |
| Wheelbase | 136 Inches |
| Braking | Mechanical Four-Wheel Drums |
| Wheels | 20-inch Wire Wheels |
| Coachbuilder | Locke & Company |
Investment Quality and Coachbuilt Exclusivity
In the current market for Classic Car Club of America (CCCA) recognized Full Classics, the 1929 Lincoln Model L with Locke bodywork holds a unique selling point due to its extreme rarity. With only 88 examples of this specific body style produced, it benchmarks technical specs and rarity against the most elite offerings of the pre-Depression era. Its documented history and recent mechanical sorting make it a prime candidate for high-level touring events or exhibition at major concours d’elegance. As an authentic Leland-era Lincoln, this car represents a stable investment in automotive history, offering a rare blend of mechanical innovation and bespoke artistry that defined the pinnacle of American transportation in 1929.
A Refined Survivor of America’s Golden Age
The 1929 Lincoln Model L Sport Touring is a masterful execution of pre-war engineering and style. It successfully captures the transition from the rugged early days of the automobile to the refined, high-fashion era of the late 1920s. From the rhythmic idle of its 385ci V8 to the gleaming nickel brightwork and vibrant red leather, every detail reflects a commitment to quality that has endured for nearly a century. As it enters its next chapter in 2026, this Lincoln remains a majestic representative of the Leland legacy and a mandatory consideration for any collector of elite American motorcars.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
