1933 Lincoln Model KB Dual Cowl Phaeton

Coachwork by Dietrich

414id L-Head V-12 Engine
Single Dual-Throat Stromberg Carburetor
Approximately 220bhp at 3,800rpm
3-speed Manual Transmission with Overdrive
4-wheel Leaf Spring Suspension
4-wheel Vacuum Assisted Drum Brakes

*One of only 9 built to this design
*A wonderful Classic for concours events
*A Classic Car Club of America Full Classic
*Offered from long term private ownership

THE LINCOLN KB

With the major revamp of the Ford brand that took place in 1932, Lincoln received a similar redesign. Lincoln also received a powerful V-12 engine, and the new model was offered in long and short wheelbases. The short was dubbed the KA and the long the KB.

The new Lincolns for 1932 showed refined styling that significantly updated the aging L model. The fresh look incorporated a Ford-style radiator shell. The car rode on more modern 18" wire spoke wheels and was offered in, as was customary for Lincoln, an extensive catalogue of body styles including many expensive custom styles. Lincoln's custom offering was very impressive, including catalogued styles from most top custom body makers including LeBaron, Dietrich, Willoughby, Waterhouse and Brunn.

The KB chassis would earn legendary status in period and today is a highly desirable senior CCCA classic. Praised for its excellent driving qualities, with exceptionally light and predictable steering and fine power-boosted brakes, the KB has become quite popular with seasoned classic era enthusiasts with an appetite for touring.

For 1933, Lincoln added a slightly smaller twelve to replace an aging 8-cylinder unit which had been offered on some KA chassis. A new-for-1933 front end styling updated the look of the car considerably, while stylistically Lincoln did take one step backwards by reverting to a louvered hood. This mistake was corrected when proper hood louvers returned in 1934, where the overall design got back on track. The styling was refined and the new models had a polished modern look, helped by a move to body-colored radiator shells and smaller headlamps for added sophistication. A new larger version of the 1933 KA engine was now adopted for the KB model; this more modern engine, though slightly smaller than the original KB V-12, was rated at identical horsepower.

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

The Dual Cowl Sport Phaeton was one of the rarest derivatives of coachwork for the year with single figure production of just 9 examples constructed. For the princely sum of $4,200 those two handfuls of clients received one of the best-looking cars of its era. The svelte Lincoln Vee radiator blends beautifully with the format of touring coachwork for its mere four passengers.

The pedigree of this car is traced back to noted Lincoln aficionado Roy Warshawsky of J.C. Whitney parts supply fame. Synonymous with the Lincoln marque, Warshawsky owned and restored many of the rarest examples of the breed. It was later acquired by the current owner from a collector in New Hope, Pennsylvania.

Today the KB presents extremely well, having been well cared for in its current custody and well restored in its former tenures. Only its rear upholstery shows some creasing and age.

Representing the peak of quality in its day, this handsome Lincoln is deserving of close attention