Rarity, distinction, and style... this 1941 Lincoln Continental Club Coupe was built for an exclusive class of American who wanted to blend graceful European curves with American flair. It was available to the few who could afford it, and today that distinction lives on with a coupe that has no expense spared in its restoration.
Edsel Ford had a personal vehicle built that reflected sense of style over affordability. This Continental might have offended his father's budget-minded mentality, but it was a true hit with his Palm Beach friends. And it was the reaction of the wealthiest of the wealthy that brought this first-generation Continental into limited production. In fact, only about 850 coupes were produced this year, making these even more rare over 75 years later. And because this example has been expertly restored, you're looking at a coupe Edsel would have been proud to drive to the highest society events here and in Europe. The waterfall grille has the crisp presentation of a pinstripe suit; the push-button door handles are pure opulence; and the exposed rear tire is so artfully presented that it would become the Continental's namesake on other vehicles. It's all wrapped in a terrific presentation of this car's believe-to-be factory-correct Rockingham Tan color. The coupe was stripped to bare metal during restoration, and the paint was expertly applied. That's why the shine rolls so evenly off of the Continental's distinctive curves.
Those with keen eyes will love the color coordination on this car. Because while most people will notice the whitewall tires and two-piece polished wheel trim, others noticed the dark red paint of the steel wheels. This provides a nice hint at the dark red leather that awaits inside. And with the fresh carpeting matching the exterior paint, this is a pure high society presentation. Something this nice deserves to be shared, and so it's nice that there is plenty of space in the rear for family and friends. When you slip into the driver's seat, you're greeted by a very original Lincoln wheel with a gold-anodized horn semi-ring. This sets the tone for the gauges and all the other trim set in the wood appearance dash. This gives you a warm and coordinated feeling of true luxury. And as you look as all the classic instruments, just know there has been the kind of investment where even items like the heater and AM radio still work correctly.
One of the best perks of owning a fully restored Continental Club Coupe is getting to lift the hood and seeing the Lincoln-Zephyr V12 in all its period-correct glory. The polished presentation on the flat heads and generator make this one look ready for the concours. And because this is a year-correct 292 cubic-inch V12, it is believed to be the original motor. There is unmistakable power and poise from the dozen cylinders propelling this luxury machine forward. And you feel its full force thanks to the three-speed all-synchromesh manual transmission.
The sale comes complete with a full file, including the owner's manual, restoration photos, build receipts, service manuals, and maintenance records. This car is the legacy of Edsel Ford, and it's restored to the standards he put forward. So if you are as a discerning American as he was, don't let this Continental Club Coupe slip away.