USA vs USA — 1929 vs 1936
| L-29 812 Supercharged Phaeton | Zephyr V12 Continental | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 190 hp | 110 hp |
| Torque | 270 lb-ft | 180 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,729 cc | 4,382 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 13.5 sec | 16.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 110 mph | 90 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 0.0 sec | — |
| Weight | — | 3,600 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,175 mm | 3,150 mm |
| Length | 4,978 mm | 5,283 mm |
| Units Produced | — | 130,000 |
| Original MSRP | — | $1,320 |
| Value (Excellent) | $400,000 | $350,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 7/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1929 Cord L-29 812 Supercharged Phaeton excels in more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed, while the 1936 Lincoln Zephyr V12 Continental stands out for stronger collectibility, better value. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
Among Luxury Car enthusiasts, the matchup between the 1929 Cord L-29 812 Supercharged Phaeton and 1936 Lincoln Zephyr V12 Continental is one for the ages. These Pre-war machines competed directly for buyers' attention and continue to vie for collectors' affections today. The 1929 Cord L-29 812 Supercharged Phaeton holds a clear advantage in raw power with 190 hp compared to 110 hp, a 80-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Cord L-29 uses a V8 L-head Supercharged displacing 4,729 cc, while the Lincoln Zephyr relies on a V12 L-head with 4,382 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1929 Cord L-29 812 Supercharged Phaeton edges ahead at 13.5 seconds versus 16.0 seconds. On the collector market, the 1929 Cord L-29 812 Supercharged Phaeton commands a significant premium over the 1936 Lincoln Zephyr V12 Continental, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1936 Lincoln Zephyr V12 Continental rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.