UK vs USA — 1906 vs 1936
| Silver Ghost 40/50 HP Tourer | Zephyr V12 Continental | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 48 hp | 110 hp |
| Torque | — | 180 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 7,428 cc | 4,382 cc |
| 0-60 mph | — | 16.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 65 mph | 90 mph |
| Weight | 3,968 lbs | 3,600 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,632 mm | 3,150 mm |
| Length | 4,876 mm | 5,283 mm |
| Units Produced | 7,874 | 130,000 |
| Original MSRP | — | $1,320 |
| Value (Excellent) | $2,000,000 | $350,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 7/10 |
The 1936 Lincoln Zephyr V12 Continental emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, higher top speed, lighter weight. The 1906 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost 40/50 HP Tourer counters with greater rarity, stronger collectibility, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
Putting the 1906 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost 40/50 HP Tourer against the 1936 Lincoln Zephyr V12 Continental is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — UK versus USA. The 1936 Lincoln Zephyr V12 Continental holds a clear advantage in raw power with 110 hp compared to 48 hp, a 62-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost uses a Inline-6 Side-Valve displacing 7,428 cc, while the Lincoln Zephyr relies on a V12 L-head with 4,382 cc. The 1936 Lincoln Zephyr V12 Continental claims a higher top speed at 90 mph compared to 65 mph. The Lincoln Zephyr carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 368 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 7,874 units built, the 1906 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost 40/50 HP Tourer is considerably scarcer than the Lincoln Zephyr's 130,000 examples. On the collector market, the 1906 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost 40/50 HP Tourer commands a significant premium over the 1936 Lincoln Zephyr V12 Continental, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.