USA vs USA — 1961 vs 1939
| Continental 4-Door Convertible | Zephyr Continental | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 340 hp | 120 hp |
| Torque | 475 lb-ft | 240 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 7,565 cc | 4,785 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 10.5 sec | 16.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 115 mph | 93 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.8 sec | — |
| Weight | — | 3,900 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,200 mm | 3,150 mm |
| Length | 5,412 mm | 5,232 mm |
| Units Produced | 2,857 | 404 |
| Original MSRP | — | $2,840 |
| Value (Excellent) | $120,000 | $175,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 8/10 |
On balance, the 1961 Lincoln Continental 4-Door Convertible makes a stronger case on paper with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. However, the 1939 Lincoln Zephyr Continental counters with greater rarity, stronger collectibility, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1961 Lincoln Continental 4-Door Convertible 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 1961 Lincoln Continental 4-Door Convertible with the 1939 Lincoln Zephyr Continental highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1961 Lincoln Continental 4-Door Convertible holds a clear advantage in raw power with 340 hp compared to 120 hp, a 220-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Lincoln Continental uses a V8 OHV 16V displacing 7,565 cc, while the Lincoln Zephyr relies on a V12 Flathead with 4,785 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1961 Lincoln Continental 4-Door Convertible edges ahead at 10.5 seconds versus 16.0 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 404 units built, the 1939 Lincoln Zephyr Continental is considerably scarcer than the Lincoln Continental's 2,857 examples. On the collector market, the 1939 Lincoln Zephyr Continental commands a significant premium over the 1961 Lincoln Continental 4-Door Convertible, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1939 Lincoln Zephyr Continental rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.