In terms of sales figures and timing, the Lincoln-Zephyr is one of Lincoln’s most important pre-war vehicles. First announced in November 1935, the Zephyr offered stunning ‘teardrop’ aerodynamic styling by John Tjaarda of the Briggs Body Company, a comfortable interior, and a relatively low-displacement V12 to entice new buyers to the brand. This was especially important considering the Model K, the only vehicle offered by Lincoln at the time, was selling at fairly low numbers (only a few hundred to just over a thousand per year).

Conversely, the stylish new Zephyr – offered in no fewer than five body styles over its lifetime – managed to attract 15,000 customers in its first year alone – a number that accounts for roughly 80% of the brand’s sales for that year. Naturally, the brand’s executives wished to fully capitalize on their new car’s success, so new styling updates were released every year. By 1939, the Zephyr still rewarded its buyers with some of the most stunning bodywork available at the time.

The striking, unmodified 1932 Lincoln-Zephyr Three-Window Coupe featured here is beautifully presented in elegant Black over Grey broadcloth. Formerly cared for by renowned Zephyr collector, Paul Teutul Jr., this incredible Lincoln was the feature car in Season 13, Episode 8 of Velocity Channel’s “Chasing Classic Cars” with Wayne Carini. Around that same time, the car starred in a prominent Hewlett-Packard commercial, “Making a Mark”, featuring Mr. Teutul driving it along New York’s Hudson River.

Following Mr. Teutul Jr.’s ownership, the car was later acquired by famed author, Clive Cussler. Today, this exceptional Zephyr remains in stock form, with its stunning interior showing off a magnificently restored dashboard with a large round center binnacle along with gorgeous upholstery including the headliner, door panels, and behind-seat storage compartment. Likewise, the trunk compartment is in exceptional condition with a special “Zephyr” script emblazoned on the back seat panel. Just as importantly, this remarkable Lincoln features a unique, one-year-only shifter arm that connects through the side of the center console, as opposed to the floor. Options include an AM radio, cigar lighter, and, most importantly, a Columbia two-speed rear end for effortless highway cruising.