USA vs USA — 1981 vs 1939
| Town Car Cartier Edition | Zephyr Continental | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 239 hp | 120 hp |
| Torque | 285 lb-ft | 240 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,601 cc | 4,785 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 8.3 sec | 16.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 115 mph | 93 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.5 sec | — |
| Weight | 4,168 lbs | 3,900 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,990 mm | 3,150 mm |
| Length | 5,556 mm | 5,232 mm |
| Units Produced | — | 404 |
| Original MSRP | $47,915 | $2,840 |
| Value (Excellent) | $18,000 | $175,000 |
| Collectibility | 4/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 2/10 | 8/10 |
On balance, the 1981 Lincoln Town Car Cartier Edition makes a stronger case on paper with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. However, the 1939 Lincoln Zephyr Continental counters with lighter weight, stronger collectibility, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1981 Lincoln Town Car Cartier Edition for outright capability, or the 1939 Lincoln Zephyr Continental for a more distinctive ownership experience.
Lincoln has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1981 Lincoln Town Car Cartier Edition with the 1939 Lincoln Zephyr Continental highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1981 Lincoln Town Car Cartier Edition holds a clear advantage in raw power with 239 hp compared to 120 hp, a 119-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Lincoln Town Car uses a V8 OHV displacing 4,601 cc, while the Lincoln Zephyr relies on a V12 Flathead with 4,785 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1981 Lincoln Town Car Cartier Edition edges ahead at 8.3 seconds versus 16.0 seconds. The Lincoln Zephyr carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 268 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1939 Lincoln Zephyr Continental commands a significant premium over the 1981 Lincoln Town Car Cartier Edition, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1939 Lincoln Zephyr Continental rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.