The 1954 Lincoln Capri Special Custom Coupe was once the height of American luxury motoring. However, this specific car has been transformed into a rugged rally-style competitor. It serves as a visual tribute to the legendary La Carrera Panamericana road race. Finished in a bold red and white scheme, it carries numerous racing-style decals. Under previous ownership, every modification focused on endurance and functional performance. It now surfaces for sale in California with a clean title and distinct personality. This build captures the adventurous spirit of fifties motorsport in a unique package. It represents a rare crossover between classic luxury and visceral road racing history.
Exterior Modifications and Endurance Styling
The exterior of the 1954 Lincoln Capri Special Custom Coupe tells a story of survival. A louvered hood with hold-down pins replaces the standard factory front end. Decorative skull and revolver-themed ornaments provide a personalized touch to the classic nose. Mesh headlight covers protect the glass from debris during high-speed rally stages. Notably, the exhaust outlets exit directly through the front fenders for an aggressive look. The trunk lid is secured with metal-rod hold-downs to handle rough terrain. Roof-mounted GPS receivers and 15-inch steel wheels further emphasize the rally mission. These elements combine to create a machine that looks ready for the Mexican border.
Chassis Setup and Rugged Footwork
This 1954 Lincoln Capri Special Custom Coupe relies on a simple and robust chassis. Black-finished steel wheels provide the strength needed for unpredictable road surfaces. They are wrapped in Firestone Destination LE3 tires featuring iconic raised white lettering. Braking remains a classic affair with four-wheel drums handled by the driver. The suspension maintains its heavy-duty character to support the significant weight of the coupe. Rear fender skirts are retained, surprisingly blending classic styling with the race aesthetic. A floor jack and spare tire are securely mounted in the trunk area. This ensures the car is prepared for roadside repairs during long-distance events.
Racing Cockpit and Specialized Navigation Tools
The interior of the 1954 Lincoln Capri Special Custom Coupe is purely functional. A fabricated roll cage with padding protects the occupants during spirited driving. Bolstered bucket seats trimmed in black cloth keep the driver and navigator secure. Crow Enterprizes harnesses and a fire extinguisher are essential safety additions. For navigation, the dash features an Alfa-Pro rally timer and a dedicated odometer. A RacerX Motorsport communication system allows for clear dialogue between the crew. Despite the racing focus, a Pioneer CD stereo and Focal speakers provide entertainment. This cabin bridges the gap between a spartan race car and a usable cruiser.
Lincoln Y-Block V8 Engine and Rally Performance
Power comes from a 317ci Lincoln Y-block V8 engine topped with a four-barrel carburetor. This setup is supported by an aluminum radiator and an auxiliary electric pusher fan. Custom aluminum inner fenders house coated fenderwell exhaust headers for better heat management. The engine delivers power to the rear wheels through a four-speed automatic transmission. For consistent fueling, redundant Holley electric pumps are mounted in the rear. An Art Carr floor shifter gives the driver precise control over gear selection. The digital odometer currently shows only 1,220 kilometers since the build was completed. This powertrain provides the reliable torque required for demanding endurance rallies.
Summary
The 1954 Lincoln Capri Special Custom Coupe is a fascinating departure from standard restorations. It offers a rare opportunity to own a vehicle with genuine rally character. The tribute to La Carrera Panamericana is executed with both style and function in mind. Its Y-block V8 and heavy-duty cooling system are built for more than just show. The interior safety equipment makes it a serious contender for vintage racing events. Every modification, from the louvers to the rally timer, adds to its unique narrative. It remains a striking example of how classic American steel can be repurposed. This Lincoln is ready for its next long-distance adventure on the open road.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
