USA vs USA — 1939 vs 2002
| Zephyr Continental | Blackwood 5.4L V8 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 120 hp | 300 hp |
| Torque | 240 lb-ft | 340 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,785 cc | 5,408 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 16.0 sec | 8.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 93 mph | 105 mph |
| ¼ Mile | — | 16.5 sec |
| Weight | 3,900 lbs | 5,399 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,150 mm | 3,567 mm |
| Length | 5,232 mm | 5,664 mm |
| Units Produced | 404 | 3,356 |
| Original MSRP | $2,840 | $52,500 |
| Value (Excellent) | $175,000 | $35,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 8/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1939 Lincoln Zephyr Continental excels in lighter weight, greater rarity, stronger collectibility, while the 2002 Lincoln Blackwood 5.4L V8 stands out for more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
The 1939 Lincoln Zephyr Continental and 2002 Lincoln Blackwood 5.4L V8 share a manufacturer in Lincoln, but that's where the similarities get interesting. These two models reveal the versatility and ambition of the Lincoln brand. The 2002 Lincoln Blackwood 5.4L V8 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 300 hp compared to 120 hp, a 180-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Lincoln Zephyr uses a V12 Flathead displacing 4,785 cc, while the Lincoln Blackwood relies on a V8 DOHC (InTech 5.4L) with 5,408 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2002 Lincoln Blackwood 5.4L V8 edges ahead at 8.5 seconds versus 16.0 seconds. The Lincoln Zephyr carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1499 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 404 units built, the 1939 Lincoln Zephyr Continental is considerably scarcer than the Lincoln Blackwood's 3,356 examples. On the collector market, the 1939 Lincoln Zephyr Continental commands a significant premium over the 2002 Lincoln Blackwood 5.4L V8, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1939 Lincoln Zephyr Continental rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.