LOT 49
1948 Lincoln Continental Convertible Chassis no. 8H182116
Sold for US$34,720 inc. premium
Lot 49
1948 Lincoln Continental Convertible
1948 Lincoln Continental Convertible
Chassis no. 8H182116
Chassis no. 8H182116
305ci L-Head V-12 Engine
Single Two-Barrel Carburetor
130bhp at 3,600rpm
3-Speed Manual Transmission
I-Beam Front Suspension with Leaf Springs and Live Rear Axle
4-Wheel Hydraulic Drum Brakes
*Long term ownership by a noted marque specialist
*High quality restoration
*Extensive recent servicing
*A CCCA™ Full Classic
THE LINCOLN CONTINENTAL
The first-generation Lincoln Continental of 1940-1948 brought European-inspired design elegance to the American automobile. An expensive, ultra-exclusive car of very limited production, many were purchased new by Hollywood celebrities and social elite. As an example, the list price for the 1948 Continental Cabriolet was $4,746—more than two and a half times the cost of that year's Ford V-8 Convertible!
The 1940-41 Continentals shared their pointed prow and curvaceous fender shapes with the streamlined contemporary Lincoln Zephyr, and they also shared that car's chassis. The most famous, and certainly most widely emulated, attribute of the original Lincoln Continental was its rear-mounted, metal-shrouded spare tire. For 1942, Continentals featured new, more squared-off fenders, and the redesigned frontal appearance found on all Lincolns of that war-shortened model year. When production resumed in 1946 following WWII, the Continental and other Lincolns generally continued the 1942 styling, but sparkled with new, bolder grillwork that gave a more profound road presence. The Continental offered here is one of 452 Cabriolets produced in 1948, the final year for the first-generation design and the last time the Continental name appeared until the Mark II was introduced as a standalone marque in 1955.
During 1951 the Museum of Modern Art included a first-generation Continental in an eight-car exhibit honoring automotive design excellence. The 1946-48 Lincolns were the only post-WWII American cars powered by a V-12 engine. Rated at 130 horsepower, the 305-cid L-head twelve was coupled to a standard three-speed manual transmission. Collectors also recognized the 1940-48 Continentals as Classics early on—no early Continental would ever be just another 'used car.' The cars' continuing popularity inspired the after-market accessory "continental kits" of the 1950s.
THE CAR OFFERED
This fine example of Lincoln's premier post-war motor car was owned by noted early Ford V8 authority Gene Napoliello. Gene was a board member of the Early Ford V8 Society and the lead author of the 1949-51 Mercury authentication handbook. Known for being a meticulous collector, his cars were always maintained to high standards. Close examination of this Lincoln Continental demonstrates the attention to detail Gene paid to every aspect of authenticity and condition.
The dark blue paintwork over dark blue leather is tastefully executed and reflects the high-quality, sophisticated nature of the Continental. The dashboard is beautifully presented with lavish chrome plating and fine instruments. The engine compartment shows the same attention to detail with touches you would expect from such a knowledgeable owner. Extensive recent work includes new stainless brake lines, fresh fuel pump, rebuilding of the carburetor and a new starter. When demonstrated for a Bonhams specialist it performed as well as it looked - running smoothly and behaving as you would expect.
In addition to this mechanical attention the car has been meticulously detailed. Offered in turnkey, ready to enjoy condition just in time for the driving season. A CCCA Full Classic™ by definition, these elegant Lincoln Continentals remain one of the world's most coveted automobiles. This is an outstanding opportunity to acquire a finely fettled Continental from an excellent home.
Additional information
Looking for a similar item?
Our Cars specialists can help you find a similar item at an auction or via a private sale.
Find your local specialistSpecialist section
Eric Minoff
Vice President, Head of Department - US
Auction Viewings
- 28 February 2024, 09:00 - 19:00 EST
- 29 February 2024, 09:00 - 12:00 EST
