12 Cylinder Town Car

In 1932 Lincoln introduced the Model KB V-12 series which are considered by many to be the best Lincolns ever built.  Its huge 448 cid V-12 engine provided better performance than V-8’s of the day and was Lincoln’s answer to the multi-cylinder challenges from Cadillac, Packard, and others. The early 1930s were rebuilding years for Lincoln, as they completely redesigned their luxury cars to keep up with the competition. Despite their efforts, the prestige market that had been so strong in the 1920’s had dried up in the economic depression of the ‘30’s. For 1933, the Lincoln catalogue contained 26 KB body styles plus 17 styles from custom coachbuilders to choose from, but unfortunately, only 533 buyers were found.

The KB's impressive engine developed a conservative 150bhp at 3,400rpm with a peak torque of 292lbs/ft at 1200rpm. The KB engine was the largest displacement engine offered by the company until the mid-sixties. This engine was the last Lincoln to use the traditional fork and blade connecting rod design that was more expensive to build. This method allowed one rod to straddle its opposite rod at the crankshaft allowing for perfectly opposed rather than staggered cylinders. It was mated to a three speed manual transmission with floor shifter. There were other amenities found on this KB Lincoln that made it luxurious and easier motoring. Features such as Freewheeling allowed the driver to coast when decelerating, a feature that saved gas and engine effort. Power assisted brakes made for easy work of stopping to name a few.

This previously restored KB car is presented in two-tone Springtime Yellow with cognac accents. The chauffeur’s compartment is equipped with art deco style instrumentation and is done tan leather with tan carpeting and has the retractable tan soft top which folds into the overhead compartment for storage during sunny weather. The passenger compartment is done in plush cream upholstery with tan carpeting, floor mounted foot rest and unique forward facing jump seats. This compartment has the original electric intercom system to communicate with the driver. The imposing body design is equipped with dual fender mounted spares with vinyl covers and strap on side mirrors for improved visibility. It is also an early example of the trade mark Lincoln front opening doors known as suicide doors design for both the driver and passenger compartment. This striking 12 Cylinder Town Car was recently acquired from a collector and connoisseur of pre-war luxury automobiles. One of only a handful ever produced make this a unique opportunity purchase a truly collectible Lincoln with commanding presence which cannot be ignored