This 1928 Lincoln Model L Dual Cowl Phaeton is completely original except for the new top and tires. It has the original paint and some of the original tool, side curtains and luggage.

The body of the car is aluminum and the fenders are steel. The most notable design feature is the dual cowl allowing the rear passengers to be protected. The body was designed by Locke and Company of New York, NY. It features walnut cabinetry with Yale locks and abundant storage. The 60 degree V-8 engine has 384.5 cubic inches and produces 90 horsepower. It rides on a 136” wheelbase, has a three-speed transmission and 4 wheel brakes.

This Lincoln was originally purchased new by Fredrick H. Nash of the Bankers Trust Company in Paris

The 1928 Lincoln Model L Dual Cowl Phaeton is a distinguished example of American luxury and engineering excellence from the late 1920s. Lincoln, founded by Henry Leland and later acquired by Henry Ford, was known for producing high-quality, luxurious automobiles. The Model L, introduced in 1920 and produced until 1930, was Lincoln’s first model and helped establish the brand’s reputation for superior craftsmanship and performance.

Here’s a detailed overview of the 1928 Lincoln Model L Dual Cowl Phaeton:

Background

• Manufacturer: Lincoln Motor Company
• Year: 1928
• Model: Model L Dual Cowl Phaeton

Specifications

• Engine: The 1928 Lincoln Model L is powered by a 6.3-liter (385 cubic inches) V8 engine. This engine produces around 90 horsepower, a significant amount for the era, providing smooth and reliable performance.
• Transmission: The car features a three-speed manual transmission, delivering power to the rear wheels. The gearbox is known for its durability and ease of operation.
• Chassis: The Model L is built on a robust ladder-frame chassis, which provides the necessary strength and stability for the large and heavy body.
• Suspension: The car uses semi-elliptic leaf springs on both the front and rear axles. This suspension setup offers a balance between comfort and handling, suitable for the driving conditions of the late 1920s.
• Brakes: The Model L is equipped with mechanical drum brakes on all four wheels. These brakes provide adequate stopping power, though they require more effort compared to modern hydraulic systems.

Design and Features

• Body Style: The 1928 Lincoln Model L Dual Cowl Phaeton is a luxury open-top touring car with two separate cowl sections. This body style features an additional windshield for the rear passengers, providing added comfort and protection.
• Design Elements: The car includes elegant design features such as a distinctive V-shaped radiator grille, large round headlamps, and stylish body lines. The dual cowl design adds a touch of sophistication and exclusivity.
• Interior: The interior of the Model L Dual Cowl Phaeton is luxurious, with high-quality leather upholstery, wood trim, and a spacious cabin. The car offers seating for up to seven passengers, with ample legroom and comfort for long journeys.
• Dashboard: The dashboard is elegantly designed, featuring classic instrumentation such as a speedometer, fuel gauge, oil pressure gauge, and ammeter. The controls are well-placed for ease of use.

Performance

• Speed: The Lincoln Model L can reach a top speed of around 80 mph (129 km/h), which was impressive for a luxury car of its size and weight during the 1920s.
• Acceleration: The powerful V8 engine provides smooth and responsive acceleration, making it suitable for both city driving and long-distance touring.
• Handling: The car offers stable and comfortable handling, thanks to its robust chassis and well-tuned suspension. While not as nimble as smaller cars, it provides a smooth and composed ride.

Historical Significance

• Luxury and Craftsmanship: The 1928 Lincoln Model L Dual Cowl Phaeton represents the pinnacle of American luxury automotive engineering during the late 1920s. Its high level of craftsmanship, attention to detail, and superior materials set it apart from many of its contemporaries.
• Market Impact: The Model L helped establish Lincoln as a leading luxury car manufacturer, competing with other high-end brands such as Packard and Cadillac. It appealed to affluent buyers seeking elegance, performance, and prestige.
• Cultural Context: Cars like the Model L Dual Cowl Phaeton were symbols of wealth and status, often owned by the elite and used for social and formal occasions. They represented the height of automotive luxury during the Roaring Twenties.

Legacy

• Collector's Item: Today, the 1928 Lincoln Model L Dual Cowl Phaeton is a highly sought-after collectible among vintage car enthusiasts. Its rarity, historical significance, and timeless design make it a valuable addition to any collection.
• Cultural Appreciation: The car is appreciated not only for its performance but also for its contribution to automotive history. It remains an iconic model that represents the golden age of luxury automobiles.
• Enduring Appeal: The combination of classic aesthetics, powerful performance, and historical significance ensures the Model L Dual Cowl Phaeton’s continued interest and admiration among collectors and automotive historians.

Summary

The 1928 Lincoln Model L Dual Cowl Phaeton is a prime example of American luxury and engineering from the late 1920s. With its powerful V8 engine, elegant dual cowl design, and luxurious interior, it stands out as a significant model in the history of Lincoln and the broader automotive world. The Model L Dual Cowl Phaeton’s legacy in luxury automotive history, combined with its appeal among collectors, makes it a cherished piece of motoring heritage.

Taken at the Hilton Head Island Concours d'Elegance & Motoring Festival.

You may purchase a print of the 1928 Lincoln Model L Dual Cowl Phaeton in our dElegance 2016 online gallery.

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