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The Lincoln Continental is celebrated for its iconic automotive design, regarded as one of the finest in history. Explore more images of this classic automobile.While the name Edsel often evokes thoughts of Ford Motor Company's infamous misstep, Edsel Ford, the former president, was the visionary behind one of the most admired car designs ever created: the enduring 1940-1941 Lincoln Continental.
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From its debut, this car captivated attention and inspired people to spend generously to own it. Even now, over four decades later, its allure remains undiminished.
Edsel aspired to elevate Lincoln to the pinnacle of automotive excellence. With an impeccable eye for design, he admired European cars for their elongated hoods, sleek fenders, narrow grilles, and other features he deemed "continental."
The 1941 Lincoln Continental boasted European-inspired elements, including elongated hoods and fenders.In 1938, Edsel commissioned a unique custom convertible embodying these traits, based on the Lincoln Zephyr. Collaborating with E. T. "Bob" Gregorie, Ford's design chief, the car was delivered to Palm Beach, Florida, where Edsel used it during his winter retreat. It instantly sparked interest, with over 250 inquiries about its availability for purchase.
Motivated by the overwhelming interest, Edsel approved a production model to complement the 1940 Zephyr lineup. His personal vehicle entered Lincoln showrooms with only minor modifications.
Equipped with the Zephyr's 292-cid, 120-horsepower V-12 engine, the Continental debuted without a nameplate, available as Edsel's four-seat cabriolet and a closed coupe. Production for the model year totaled 54 cabriolets and 350 coupes.
The Continental's dashboard was exceptionally elegant and sophisticated.The 1941 model saw minimal changes but was established as a standalone model, distinct from the Zephyr, and featured appropriate name scripting. Despite weighing nearly two tons, the Continental was remarkably agile, exquisitely refined, and unmatched in its elegance. Production included 400 cabriolets and 850 coupes.
The showcased 1941 Lincoln Continental Cabriolet belongs to Harry Wynn from Antioch, California. He acquired it in its original state in 1975 and completed its restoration five years later. However, it is not available for purchase.
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