Lincoln Zephyr
The Art Deco masterpiece that brought V12 luxury to the American masses.
- Power
- 110 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 16.0 s
- Top speed
- 90 mph
- Est. value
- $20k–$125k
About the Lincoln Zephyr
The Lincoln Zephyr was a landmark of aerodynamic design, conceived by Edsel Ford and styled by Bob Gregorie to bridge the gap between Ford and the ultra-luxury Model K. Its streamlined 'waterfall' grille and integrated headlights were revolutionary for 1936, influencing automotive styling for a decade. Under the hood, the 75-degree V12 engine provided smooth, quiet power, though early units were prone to overheating and oiling issues. The 1939 model is particularly significant as the first to feature hydraulic brakes and the inspiration for the original Lincoln Continental.
Lincoln Zephyr specs
The Lincoln Zephyr produces 110 bhp (82 kW) and 252 Nm (186 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 16.0 seconds and has a top speed of 90 mph (145 km/h).
| Make | Lincoln |
|---|---|
| Model | Zephyr |
| Trim | V12 |
| Years | 1936–1942 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Sedan |
| Country | United States |
| Production | About 21,000 built |
| Original price | About $1,400 when new |
| Engine | 4.4-litre L-head V12 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 4,380 cc (4.4 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 110 bhp (82 kW) at 3,900 rpm |
| Torque | 252 Nm (186 lb-ft) |
| 0–60 mph | 16.0 s |
| Top speed | 90 mph (145 km/h) |
| Transmission | 3-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,644 kg (3,624 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 67 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Lincoln Zephyr worth?
A typical Lincoln Zephyr is estimated to be worth $20,000 – $125,000 (about £15,000 – £93,000).
Its original price when new was about $1,400.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Lincoln Zephyr rarity in CarSpot
The Lincoln Zephyr is a Rare card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 54 out of 100. Performance cars, typically worth around £50,000 to £100,000. A Rare card is worth 40 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Lincoln Zephyr fun facts
- The Zephyr's V12 engine was essentially a 12-cylinder version of the famous Ford Flathead V8, sharing its 3.75-inch stroke.
- It was the first Ford Motor Company product to feature an all-steel roof and hydraulic brakes.
- The 1939 Zephyr served as the basis for the first Lincoln Continental, which began as a one-off custom for Edsel Ford.
