1946 Lincoln Continental Club Coupe

This 1946 Lincoln Continental Club Coupe represents one of the most elegant expressions of American postwar luxury design, combining coachbuilt proportions with refined mechanical simplicity. One of just 265 club coupes produced for the model year, this example benefits from an early-2000s refurbishment and a history of enthusiast ownership, including two recent BaT transactions in 2020 and 2024.

Power comes from the 292ci flathead V12, the final V12 offered by an American manufacturer, factory rated at 120 horsepower. Paired with a column-shifted three-speed manual transmission and factory Borg-Warner overdrive, it delivers smooth, unhurried performance befitting its grand touring character. A 12-volt electrical conversion and an electric fuel pump have been added for improved usability, while a rebuilt carburetor supports drivability. Service history since 2020 includes routine maintenance items such as spark plugs and overdrive-related components.

Finished in deep maroon over red leather and tan cloth upholstery, the car presents a classic prewar-to-postwar transitional aesthetic. Exterior equipment includes a hood ornament, chrome bumpers with overriders, rear fender skirts, push-button door handles, and a rear-mounted continental kit. The body retains its formal, long-hood proportions, accentuated by polished brightwork and steel wheel covers with chrome beauty rings. Whitewall BFGoodrich Silvertown tires complete the period-correct presentation. Noted imperfections include inoperative windshield wipers and antenna.

The chassis rides on a 125-inch wheelbase with front and rear transverse leaf spring suspension, reflecting the engineering approach of the era. Hydraulic drum brakes provide stopping power, assisted by the car’s original-style braking system. The 15-inch steel wheels maintain the car’s factory look while supporting its substantial grand touring presence.

Inside, the cabin features a steel dashboard finished in body color, surrounded by red leather and tan cloth upholstery across the split front and full-width rear bench seats. Period luxury touches include hydraulically operated power windows, integrated rear-seat cigarette lighters, silver metal trim, and an AM radio and analog clock (both currently inoperative). The overall presentation emphasizes craftsmanship and restrained luxury rather than modern convenience.

The driver is met with a two-spoke Bakelite steering wheel featuring a chrome horn ring, showing a noted crack consistent with age. Instrumentation includes a 110-mph speedometer and auxiliary gauges for oil pressure, water temperature, amperage, and fuel level. The five-digit odometer shows 22k miles, with approximately 2k added under current ownership.

Accompanied by the owner’s manual, spare parts, and car show awards, this Continental stands as a rolling example of Lincoln’s early postwar craftsmanship. With its rare V12 powerplant, graceful styling, and long-wheelbase comfort, it remains a highly collectible piece of American automotive history—best appreciated as a relaxed grand tourer and preservation-focused classic.