1929 LINCOLN SPORT TOURING
The inception of the Lincoln Motor Company can be traced back to the early 20th century, specifically to the endeavors of Henry M. Leland. Leland, initially involved in appraising The Henry Ford Company, instead proposed reorganizing the firm, leading to the formation of Cadillac under his leadership. His tenure at Cadillac, which lasted until 1909 when it was sold to General Motors, was marked by significant advancements in automobile production, notably the implementation of interchangeable parts, a concept borrowed from his experience in the firearms industry.
However, differences with General Motors' management over World War I military production led to Leland's departure and the founding of the Lincoln Motor Company in 1916. Named after his idol, Abraham Lincoln, the company initially contributed to the war effort by manufacturing Liberty Aircraft engines. Post-war, the transition to luxury automobile production was natural for Leland, albeit challenging due to economic conditions and initial design perceptions.
The Lincoln Model L, introduced in 1920, showcased technical prowess with its advanced V8 engine and robust chassis. However, production delays and a post-war recession affected its market acceptance. The design, deemed conservative for the era, further impeded its success. This culminated in Henry Ford's acquisition of Lincoln in 1922. Under Ford, and particularly through the influence of his son Edsel, the Lincoln L Series underwent significant improvements in both style and mechanics, eventually becoming a symbol of luxury and performance.
By 1929, the Lincoln L Series had evolved into a refined automobile with a variety of body styles available from prestigious coachbuilders like Dietrich, Willoughby, LeBaron, Brunn, and Locke. The 1929 model, in particular, represented the culmination of years of refinement, featuring elegant lines and improved mechanics.
This Lincoln Model L is one of 88 examples built in 1929 to wear this striking Sport Phaeton coachwork by Locke. It is finished in a handsome tri-tone scheme, with dark green body, light green accent lines, and black fenders. The colors are accented with dark green pinstripes and apple green wire wheels, giving a fun and sporting appearance. This Model-L wears a very well-preserved older restoration; body lines are exceptionally good, and the high-quality Locke body exhibits excellent fit and finish for the period, however the paint is starting to show some age. Atop the nicely restored radiator sits the famous Lincoln Greyhound mascot, and a pair of era appropriate Trippe Lights help to light the way. Rear seat passengers are treated to their own folding windshield to ensure their comfort and a covered trunk sits out back on a folding rack.
Like the exterior, the interior is exceptionally well-preserved and presents in excellent condition. Rich green leather upholstery complements the exterior colors, and does shows some minimal use, The seven-passenger cabin is authentically appointed with Linoleum floor panels, correct instruments and switches, folding occasional seats, and restored brightwork. A matching green boot covers the top when not in use, and a full set of side curtains provide protection when the weather doesn’t want to cooperate accompany the car as well. The top is older and does show its age but is serviceable.
Lincoln’s 384.8 cubic-inch L-head V8 engine is a marvelous piece of engineering. The fact that it was the only engine option for the first decade of production is a testament to Henry Leland’s superb design. The flat head V8 produces 90 horsepower and is very nicely presented in correct gray paint on the heads and cylinders. Polished hardware, correct clamps and painted accessories round out the detailing. The engine is mated to a 3-speed manual gearbox which is strong and easy to operate.
This handsome and rare Lincoln represents the best that Ford Motor Company had to offer in 1929. The restoration has been lovingly maintained, and this car remains in wonderful condition, ready for a host of driving events worldwide, including CCCA CARavan tours. A quality restoration that has been very well maintained; it would be a pleasure to enjoy on the road and will surely provide its next keeper with many miles of enjoyable motoring.
Offers welcome and trades considered
$88,500
STOCK NUMBER 7640
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