This 1939 Lincoln-Zephyr four-door sedan, one of 16,663 such cars produced that year, is described as a “very well-preserved two-owner” example, and as a California car all its life. The Zephyr is said to have undergone a repaint and replacement of the interior fabrics about 15 years ago, and to have undergone a gradual process of overhauling the original engine that is reported to have included new wiring, a new radiator and replacement of the starter. Although this Lincoln-Zephyr is not optioned with a radio, a handmade replica of an original Art Deco radio antenna is now mounted above the windshield. The Lincoln-Zephyr was powered in 1939 by Lincoln’s 267.3-cu.in. L-head V-12. With a Stromberg downdraft carburetor and a compression ratio of 6.7:1, the engine was rated by the manufacturer at 110 horsepower when new. This car’s engine is said to be original, having been gradually upgraded by the seller, including a mechanical overhaul, new wiring, and a new starter. The radiator is also reportedly a replacement. The seller reports light smoke from the engine upon initial startup. The Ford three-speed manual transmission is said to shift properly, and the seller is unaware of any powertrain leaks. The engine bay presents as being stock and generally clean, in the provided photos. The paint on this car is said to be the original color, and to be about 15 years old. The seller believes the finish “needs a buffing,” while also noting two small dings with chipped paint. The body seals and weatherstripping are reported to be effective. The seller notes that the Lincoln-Zephyr has been garaged in California throughout its life, when not in use, and describes its level of corrosion as “not much,” with most rust apparently confined to the undercarriage. The chrome appears to be undamaged and in very good condition, per the photos, although the seller reports possible pitting on some trim pieces. All the glass is reported to have been replaced, except for the small quarter windows on each side. All the lighting is reported to be functional. The underside looks to be acceptably clean, with widespread surface corrosion visible in the photos. The seating materials, door panels, and headliner are reported to have all been redone around 2002 in a wool material, with the fabrics presenting in “very good, undamaged and unsoiled condition.” The carpeting was reportedly redone at the same time and looks to be in good shape, with some gathering on the front passenger’s side. The painted steel dashboard has the full complement of Bakelite knobs and what is described as the original steering wheel, with a replacement horn button.
