1928 Lincoln Model L Sedan
The Lincoln Motor Company was founded in 1917 by engineer Henry M. Leland after he co-foundedand consequently departed fromCadillac. He formed Lincoln during World War I to build Liberty aircraft engines until the war ended and the assembly plants began producing automobiles. After falling on tough economic times in the early 1920s, Lincoln was bought by the Ford Motor Company and retooled as Ford's luxury line. Leland named the Lincoln company after his hero Abraham Lincoln, whom he voted for in the 1860 presidential election. The name was an appropriate choice considering the brand became known for providing limousines for US Presidents.
For consignment a barn find condition Lincoln Model L. Peeling, crazed, dimpled paint, Imperfections in the chrome, a faded interior do not detract from this automobile, but instead add to its originality and charm. Lincoln was not peer of Ford, and they were determined to make this their line for the well-heeled, in the form of a high-end limousine if you will, certainly to be driven by a chauffeur.
Exterior
Deep blue with black fenders and running boards this Lincoln was considered at the time as behind the times as to its design. Mechanically there were innovations that were in the forefront of any manufacturer, so the Lincoln became synonymous with quality and luxury. A large chromed grille and radiator surround is topped with a sprinting greyhound radiator cap topper, and both are in fair condition showing slight dimpling. The bumpers show some rusting and de-laminating but have an interesting tuning fork design. There is sporadic use of brass in the looped door handles, taillight bezels, window cranks and latches for doors. Even the Lincoln badge on the radiator is in brass. Wood spoked wheels are all around and on the covered spare hanging on the back of this car.
Interior
Either original or restored a very long time ago, much use has this interior seen. With a front bench in tufted and buttoned broadcloth in a Latte color way, to the middle row of folding jumpseats, to the luxurious rear bench, there is wear and plenty of aging. Seen is an unmounted footrest for the rear bench, soiled carpets, and a stained headliner, although it remains tight. The dash front appears to have a recent (within the past 15 years) coating of texture paint in black and has an aluminum center oval that houses the essential gauges and a clock. The original wood steering wheel with peeling and cracked finish, sits in front of the dash.
Drivetrain
384 cubic inches sit under the dual cowled hood, and it is in unrestored but running condition. This L-head fork and blade V8 is topped by a Stromberg carburetor and has a 3-speed manual transmission. Way behind is a 4.58 geared floating rear axle.
Undercarriage
Some surface rust as well as borderline invasive rust is noted underneath, particularly on the side body hangers, and inner side body panels. Leaf spring suspension is all around as are mechanical drum brakes.
Drive-Ability
This car does run, and a test drive revealed it shifts and drives fairly smooth. When you go into a corner you are aware of its size and weight and you can feel the pull to want to continue straight. Interior is comfortable but rough.
As with most barn finds one can decide to do nothing, or just restore the engine and keep the finish, or do a total redux. Either way, you have a turnkey classic big Lincoln to get around in until you decide how to make it fit your personality. There is plenty of steel to do that for sure!
Classic Auto Mall is a 336,000-square foot classic and special interest automobile showroom, featuring over 450 vehicles for sale with showroom space for up to 1,000 vehicles. Also, a 400 vehicle barn find collection is on display.
This vehicle is located in our showroom in Morgantown, Pennsylvania, conveniently located just 1-hour west of Philadelphia on the I-76 Pennsylvania Turnpike. The website is www.classicautomall.com and our phone number is (888) 227-0914. Please contact us anytime for more information or to come see the vehicle in person.