Some cars are more than just vehicles. They are personal statements. They are rolling pieces of art. The 1939 Lincoln Zephyr Continental is one of those cars. This beautiful cabriolet was a special concept. It was originally created for Edsel Ford himself. It was a one-off, handcrafted design. This unique car not only showcased stunning style. It also laid the foundation for a future icon. It truly set the stage for one of America’s most famous cars. It proved that a luxury brand could be innovative.
The Zephyr Continental’s Origin Story
The story of this car is absolutely fascinating. Edsel Ford, the son of Henry Ford, wanted a personal car. He wanted something different for his vacation. He asked his head designer, Bob Gregorie, to create it. The goal was to combine American style with European flair. They used a Lincoln Zephyr chassis as a starting point. Gregorie then created a unique, low-slung body. The result was a long, elegant convertible. It had a very clean and sleek profile. It was truly unlike anything else on the road. The car was a masterpiece of design. It showed that Lincoln could innovate.
The Power Behind the Beauty
The 1939 Lincoln Zephyr Continental was not just about looks. It had serious power, too. Under the long hood was a V12 engine. This engine was a key part of the Zephyr’s identity. It was a 267 cubic-inch flathead V12. This engine produced 110 horsepower. It gave the car a very smooth ride. The power was more than sufficient. This powerplant allowed for effortless cruising. It provided the high-end performance expected of a Lincoln. The car was as graceful to drive as it was to look at. The V12 engine was an engineering marvel.
A Style That Redefined a Brand
The design of the Zephyr Continental was very intentional. Its clean lines and lack of a running board were revolutionary. The designers moved the spare tire to a distinctive “Continental” rear mount. This feature would become famous. It made the car’s profile even more dramatic. The car was a sensation. When Edsel drove it in Florida, people loved it. They asked where they could buy one. This overwhelming response was a surprise to Edsel. It proved that there was a market for this kind of luxury.
The Birth of the Lincoln Continental
The success of the concept car led to an incredible decision. Edsel Ford decided to put the car into production. That first production car became the 1940 Lincoln Continental. The name itself came from this car’s European inspiration. This special Zephyr concept truly launched a new legacy. It became the flagship model for the brand. The Continental defined Lincoln for decades. It became a symbol of American luxury and elegance. Its roots can be traced directly back to this concept car. It was a car for a new generation.
The 1939 Lincoln Zephyr Continental is a crucial car in history. It began as a personal project for Edsel Ford. Its beautiful design and V12 engine made it very special. The public’s enthusiastic reaction to it was immediate. It was the catalyst for the production of the Lincoln Continental. This car changed the course of Lincoln’s history. It is a true testament to the power of design. This unique and beautiful car remains a legend. It is a lasting icon of American ingenuity and style.
Disclaimer: This vehicle is presented for informational purposes only. The accuracy of all claims and details is subject to verification by the buyer. Prospective buyers should conduct their own thorough inspection and research before making a purchase.
Source: Ford Heritage Vault
