Though the 1930s saw American automakers experiment in earnest with wind-cheating, streamlined design, the results—as demonstrated by the influential, but commercially unsuccessful, Chrysler Airflow—were not uniformly embraced by the public.

The Lincoln-Zephyr, introduced in 1936, struck a far more resonant chord. Initially penned by John Tjaarda and brought to fruition by E.T. “Bob” Gregorie, it harmonized avant-garde looks with well-balanced, proportions; its 110-horsepower, 267-cubic inch V-12 engine provided the model with performance and an exclusive cylinder count. It was an instant hit, and an attractive Coupe followed in 1937.

Finished in dark green over a tan cloth interior, this first-year Coupe demonstrates why the two-door is often considered to be the most successful implementation of the Lincoln-Zephyr design language. Revisions to the initial design include a modified grille and side louvers, gracefully V-shaped bumpers, and a new dash with centrally placed instruments. The large speedometer was mounted ahead of the gearshift on a console that extended to the floor, which also held the radio speaker and heating duct.

While the Lincoln-Zephyr’s compelling looks made it an attractive target for customizers, this example remains remarkably pure; exterior modifications are limited to period-appropriate side mirrors, and there is an Edelbrock dual-carburetor intake manifold installed underhood. Service performed since 2018 includes a carburetor rebuild and the installation of a new intake manifold gasket; further maintenance work, carried out at RM Auto Restoration in Ontario, Canada saw the brakes inspected and adjusted, the clutch replaced, the grille welting replaced, and the body detailed. More recently, its gearbox was serviced at the same facility to ensure proper operation.

Cutting-edge when new, the Lincoln-Zephyr’s looks are just as appealing today; this example of the model’s most desirable variant, carefully maintained for driving enjoyment, represents an excellent opportunity to add timeless Art Deco style to your collection.