The 1931 Lincoln Limousine represents a fascinating intersection where pre-war craftsmanship meets the mechanical reliability of the mid-seventies luxury era. This unique build retains its original aluminum body crafted by the Willoughby Body Company while hiding a modern heart underneath. Dressed in a sophisticated silver and blue two-tone paint scheme, this 1931 Lincoln Limousine commands attention through its sheer scale. It provides a rare opportunity to enjoy classic aesthetics without the operational difficulties of early twentieth-century mechanicals.
Classic Willoughby Body Craftsmanship
The aluminum bodywork serves as a testament to the high-end coachbuilding standards of the early 1930s era. Notable exterior details include dual side-mounted spare tires equipped with accessory mirrors and a classic leaping Greyhound mascot. Running board step plates and cowl lamps further accentuate the formal appearance of this massive luxury vehicle. At the rear, a traditional luggage trunk provides extra storage space for long-distance touring or weekend events. The silver finish highlights the intricate lines that defined the elite transport of the Great Depression period.
Modernized Interior and Comfort Features
Inside the cabin, passengers are treated to gray upholstery and several conveniences that make the driving experience much more pleasant. The integration of Vintage Air climate control ensures the large interior remains cool during warm summer parade routes. A tilt steering column paired with a Banjo-style wheel allows the driver to find a comfortable position easily. Passengers in the rear can utilize the folding footrests and jump seats for a truly authentic limousine experience. A Sony cassette radio is also tucked away to provide period-appropriate or modern audio entertainment.
Mechanical Upgrades and Driving Dynamics
Modern engineering makes this classic much more accessible for contemporary road use compared to an original 1931 drivetrain. Power steering and power brakes with front discs were added to help manage the significant weight of the aluminum body. Furthermore, the inclusion of cruise control suggests that this vehicle was built for actual road trips rather than just display. Dual horns and traditional robe cords maintain the vintage atmosphere while modern wiring ensures that everything functions reliably. These upgrades transform a museum piece into a functional vehicle capable of navigating modern traffic.
Power and Performance Specs
The powertrain is sourced from a 1975 Lincoln Town Car, featuring a massive 460 CI V-8 engine. This engine choice provides an abundance of torque, allowing the heavy limousine to accelerate smoothly and maintain highway speeds. An automatic transmission handles the gear changes, removing the complexity of a non-synchronized vintage manual gearbox. This V-8 setup offers a level of refinement and parts availability that the original 1931 engine simply cannot match. It ensures that the car remains as dependable as it is visually impressive on the road today.
Building a Legacy of Luxury
Combining the best of two different eras requires a delicate balance of style and functional modern engineering. The use of a full 1975 donor drivetrain means that the mechanical components are robust and easy to service. This approach preserves the Willoughby body for future generations while allowing the car to be driven frequently. Every detail, from the Banjo wheel to the front disc brakes, serves a specific purpose in this build. It remains a striking example of how classic American luxury can be successfully updated for the modern world.
In summary, the 1931 Lincoln Limousine is a thoughtfully executed restomod that honors its Willoughby coachbuilt origins. The marriage of a 460 CI V-8 with pre-war aluminum styling creates a unique and highly usable collector car. It offers the prestige of a classic limousine with the ease of an automatic transmission and air conditioning. This vehicle stands as a tribute to the enduring appeal of the Lincoln brand across nearly a century of history.
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Source: mecum.com
