This 1938 Lincoln Model K is one of 416 built in 1938 and one of only 13 fitted with the custom coachwork by Brunn. The car is the third built for the 1938 model year and was built for Walter Weiss of the Sterling Drug Company on the 145” long wheelbase chassis, 9’ longer than the standard Model K. With the extended wheelbase, the two doors are over four feet long.
Custom details like the teardrop shaped running boards, rear wheel skirts, and V windshield accent Brunn’s design. Other significant features include chrome covers which drop over the window slots when the windows are down, fold down rear armrest, swing out brackets for an extra luggage trunk, radio, heater and a beautiful interior woodwork.
This car is powered by a side valve, 414 cubic inch, V12 engine, developing 150 horsepower, coupled to a 3-speed manual transmission. The 5,801 pound car is capable of and estimated 87 miles per hour.
Background and History
- Manufacturer: Lincoln, a division of Ford Motor Company
- Production Year: 1938
- Series: The Model K was part of Lincoln's lineup from 1931 to 1940, aimed at the luxury car market.
Specifications
- Engine: The 1938 Model K was powered by a 414 cubic inch (6.8-liter) V12 engine.
- Power Output: The engine produced around 150 horsepower.
- Transmission: 3-speed manual gearbox.
- Chassis: The car featured a solid, rigid chassis designed to support its substantial weight and provide a smooth ride.
Design and Features
- Body Styles: The Model K was available in several body styles, including sedans, limousines, coupes, and convertibles. Many of these bodies were custom-built by renowned coachbuilders such as Brunn, LeBaron, and Judkins.
- Exterior: The design of the Model K was elegant and imposing, with a long hood, sweeping fenders, and a distinctive grille. The 1938 model featured a more streamlined and modernized appearance compared to earlier versions.
- Interior: The interior was luxurious, with high-quality materials such as leather, wood trim, and plush carpeting. It was designed to provide maximum comfort for passengers, with features like spacious seating and advanced instrumentation for its time.
Performance
- Top Speed: The Model K could reach a top speed of around 100 mph (161 km/h), which was impressive for a luxury car of its size and weight.
- Handling: The car was known for its smooth and stable ride, thanks to its advanced suspension system and well-balanced chassis. It provided a comfortable driving experience, making it a favorite among affluent buyers.
- Braking: The Model K was equipped with hydraulic drum brakes, which were standard for luxury cars of the era, providing reliable stopping power.
Legacy
- Significance: The Lincoln Model K is significant for its role in establishing Lincoln as a premier luxury car manufacturer. It competed with other high-end brands such as Cadillac and Packard, helping to cement Lincoln's reputation for quality and luxury.
- Rarity: Due to its high price and the limited production numbers, the Model K is a rare and highly sought-after collector's item today.
- Collectibility: Collectors value the Model K for its historical importance, elegant design, and luxurious features. Well-preserved examples are prized possessions and often feature in classic car shows and prestigious collections.
Notable Features
- Coachbuilt Bodies: The availability of custom coachbuilt bodies allowed owners to tailor their cars to their personal tastes, adding to the exclusivity and uniqueness of each vehicle.
- Art Deco Influence: The 1938 model incorporated Art Deco design elements, which were popular at the time, contributing to its stylish and modern appearance.
Taken at the Amelia Concourse.
You may purchase a print of the 1938 Lincoln Model K in our dElegance 2012 online gallery.
