Despite the Great Depression, competition in some sectors of the American luxury market was strong in the early Thirties. Offerings from marques such as Packard and Cadillac often dominated. For 1931, however, Lincoln responded with the Model K. Endowed with exceptional styling paired with fine engineering, the Model K retained the traditional Lincoln V-8, but new cylinder heads, manifolding, and a downdraft two-barrel carburetor improved the engine’s efficiency. Consequently, horsepower increased dramatically.

More significantly, Lincoln introduced an all-new, drop-frame chassis with up-to-the-minute features and a 145-inch wheelbase, nine inches longer than its 1930 predecessor. Nineteen-inch wheels made the coachwork look even lower. An all-new gearbox with freewheeling and synchromesh on the two top gears, a double disc clutch, Houdaille double-acting shock absorbers, and a Bendix Duo-Servo brake booster reflected how thoroughly Lincoln was being transforming into a modern luxury titan and previewed the release of the groundbreaking Model KB in 1932.

The beautiful Model K Phaeton offered here is an exceptional example. The 10th of just 33 built, information obtained from The Henry Ford Museum indicates that the car was completed on 7 May 1931. Though the original owner is unknown, by 1997 the car was in private ownership in Oklahoma before finding its way to current ownership in 2010. It is believed that the car was cosmetically restored in the 1990s and it still presents beautifully today. More recently, the engine, fuel, and exhaust systems were rebuilt. During this process, compression was increased and a “police spec” camshaft was installed, enabling greater valve lift and more power. In addition, four-wheel vacuum-assist brakes and “town and country” horns are fitted.

An exceptionally rare early Lincoln, the Phaeton is considered a Full Classic by the Classic Car of America and is therefore eligible for many shows, tours, and CARavan events around the country. In current ownership, the car achieved National First Prize status with the Antique Automobile Club of America, underlining the quality of the car’s restoration and maintenance.

Beyond the measure of any award, this 1931 Lincoln Model K has been the family favorite under current ownership, used for two weddings, and a town celebrity when driven to local restaurants, where it invariably drew the eye and awe of passersby. A highly desirable open Full Classic, it will make a superb companion for touring, showing, or just motoring on the great American road, as Lincoln founder Henry Leland would have intended.