The 1929 Lincoln L series is the first automobile that was produced by the Lincoln Motor Company. Introduced in 1920 the L series would continue to be produced after the bankruptcy of Lincoln in 1922 and its purchase by Ford Motor Company. Lincoln contracted with dozens of coach-builders during the 1902’s and early 30’s to create multiple custom-built vehicles. This 1929 Lincoln L body was built by Locke.
Approximately 10 of these cars remain in North America and this car is perhaps the most well kept and preserved of those remaining.
The 1929 Lincoln L stands as a testament to the luxury and craftsmanship of early American automobiles. With its powerful V8 engine, elegant design, and luxurious interior, the Lincoln L exemplifies the sophistication and engineering excellence of its era. It remains a cherished classic, admired for its historical significance and timeless beauty, and continues to be a symbol of American automotive heritage.
Background
- Manufacturer: Lincoln Motor Company, a division of Ford Motor Company
- Year: 1929
- Model: Lincoln L
Specifications
- Engine: The 1929 Lincoln L is powered by a 6.3-liter (385 cubic inches) V8 engine. This engine produces around 90 horsepower, a substantial figure for its time, providing smooth and reliable performance.
- Transmission: It features a three-speed manual transmission.
- Chassis: The car is built on a robust, ladder-type frame chassis, known for its strength and durability.
- Suspension: The suspension system includes semi-elliptic leaf springs at both the front and rear, providing a comfortable ride characteristic of luxury vehicles of the era.
Design and Features
- Body Style: The Lincoln L was available in a variety of body styles, including sedans, touring cars, roadsters, coupes, and limousines. The 1929 model featured designs by several coachbuilders, including Brunn, Judkins, and Murphy, offering bespoke and stylish options to affluent customers.
- Design: The design of the Lincoln L reflects the classic lines and elegance of the late 1920s, with a long hood, large, round headlights, and a prominent, upright grille. The body is characterized by clean, graceful lines, luxurious details, and high-quality craftsmanship.
- Interior: The interior of the Lincoln L is lavishly appointed with high-quality materials such as leather, wood, and chrome accents. It offers a spacious and comfortable cabin, with attention to detail and luxury touches that cater to the needs of its discerning occupants.
Performance
- Speed: The Lincoln L could achieve a top speed of around 80 mph (129 km/h), which was impressive for a luxury car of its size and weight in 1929.
- Handling: While not designed for sporty performance, the Lincoln L offered a smooth and stable ride, thanks to its advanced suspension system and solid construction. It was built for comfort and ease of driving, making it ideal for long-distance touring.
Historical Significance
- Henry Leland's Vision: The Lincoln L was the brainchild of Henry Leland, who founded the Lincoln Motor Company in 1917. Leland's commitment to precision engineering and luxury positioned Lincoln as a premier American automobile manufacturer.
- Ford Acquisition: In 1922, the struggling Lincoln Motor Company was acquired by Ford Motor Company. Under Ford's ownership, the Lincoln L received continuous improvements and became a symbol of American luxury and engineering excellence.
- Prohibition Era Luxury: The 1929 Lincoln L epitomized the opulence and elegance of the late 1920s, a time when luxury automobiles were symbols of status and success during the Prohibition era.
Legacy
- Collector's Item: Today, the 1929 Lincoln L is a highly prized classic car, sought after by collectors and enthusiasts for its historical significance, craftsmanship, and timeless elegance.
- Preservation: Many examples of the Lincoln L have been meticulously restored and preserved, often displayed at classic car shows, concours d'elegance events, and automotive museums where they continue to captivate audiences.
- Foundation for Future Models: The success and reputation of the Lincoln L set the foundation for future Lincoln models, cementing the brand's legacy as a manufacturer of luxury vehicles.
You may purchase a print of the 1929 Lincoln L in our dElegance 2018 online gallery.
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