The Lincoln-Zephyr, introduced for 1936 as a low-priced companion for the big Model K Lincolns, had saved the marque, so successfully so that the Model K was discontinued after 1939. Effectively, the comely Lincoln Continental apart, the Zephyr had become the Lincoln. When Lincoln resumed building cars after World War II the Zephyr name was put to rest, the cars simply called “Lincoln, of which the Continental was a subseries. There were three non-Continental Lincolns in 1946, a four-door Sedan, a Club Coupe and a Convertible Coupe. The Convertible Coupe was, by its nature, also an upscale model.

This 1946 Lincoln Continental Cabriolet (as it was termed in factory literature) is an older restoration, but still presents well. The black paint exhibits a deep shine and the body contours are excellent. The brightwork has some pits under the chrome plating, and the lower part of the die-cast grille has some damage. The interior is red leather, and has seen much use, although there are no wear spots or tears. The floors have red carpet. The convertible top is tan canvas, in which some staining is evident.

The Lincoln Continental featured advanced European styling that left a powerful impression on the American public. Its design was so greatly appreciated that the Museum of Modern Art selected the Continental as one of eight automotive works of art. This car is one of only 201 built in 1946 and is considered a Full Classic by the Classic Car Club of America.