1941 Lincoln Custom Limousine

The Lincoln Custom

Following the Model K’s cancellation in 1940, the new Zephyr-based custom served as Lincoln’s luxury flagship for 1941 and 1942. Boasting a 13” wheelbase extension to 138”, the eight-passenger custom maintained the Model K’s generous interior space while preserving the Zephyr’s streamlined design cues penned by E.T. “Bob” Gregorie in direct collaboration with Edsel Ford.

Befitting its top-line status, the Custom heralded the industry’s first power-operated front-seat mechanism and offered standard power window lifts. Handsome interiors featured a striking Art Deco-influenced dash and comprehensive amenities including courtesy lamps, passenger-assist handles, and premium upholstery with a fold-down central rear armrest. Offered in Model 31 sedan and Model 32 limousine forms, with the latter equipped with a power-operated division window, the custom was only briefly produced until civilian automobile production officially ended in February 1942.

This Car

One of only 295 examples produced for 1941, this Lincoln Model 32 Custom Limousine was acquired by the consignor, an astute private collector, in July 2011. The prior Texas-based owner acquired the Lincoln in late summer 2005, with the car having already received a comprehensive restoration to concours-level standards. Handsome in presentation with its original color scheme of a Spode Green exterior finish with Tan whipcord upholstery, the stately Lincoln remains excellent throughout. As expected, the interior is luxurious, highlighted by a correct and particularly attractive wood grain dash finish with gold-accented instrument enclosures. In addition to a pair of jump seats with corresponding footrests, the custom limousine boasted three separate heater cores to provide ample cold-weather comfort when required for the chauffeur and passengers alike.The 292 cid V-12 engine is equipped with a rare automatic choke and as with the Zephyr, the custom limousine’s engine features a polished intake manifold and cylinder heads. The trunk compartment is correct, with a complete set of tools and jack.

This Lincoln has been very successful on the show field, having achieved Classic Car Club of America First Prize honors, confirmed by the badge affixed to its front fender, and this example is reported to have a successful Lincoln & Continental Owners Club show history as well. With less than 40,400 miles presently indicated, the Lincoln Custom clearly benefits from the proper care, storage, and limited exercise it has received since restoration, remaining very attractive throughout. Offered complete with a 1941 Lincoln reference book, it is fascinating and exceedingly rare.