USA vs Spain — 1936 vs 1919
| Zephyr V12 Continental | H6B Tulipwood Torpedo | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 110 hp | 135 hp |
| Torque | 180 lb-ft | — |
| Engine Size | 4,382 cc | 6,597 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 16.0 sec | — |
| Top Speed | 90 mph | 85 mph |
| Weight | 3,600 lbs | 4,409 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,150 mm | 3,600 mm |
| Length | 5,283 mm | — |
| Units Produced | 130,000 | 2,350 |
| Original MSRP | $1,320 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $350,000 | $8,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 9/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1936 Lincoln Zephyr V12 Continental excels in higher top speed, lighter weight, better value, while the 1919 Hispano-Suiza H6B Tulipwood Torpedo stands out for more power, greater rarity, stronger collectibility. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
Putting the 1936 Lincoln Zephyr V12 Continental against the 1919 Hispano-Suiza H6B Tulipwood Torpedo is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — USA versus Spain. The 1919 Hispano-Suiza H6B Tulipwood Torpedo holds a clear advantage in raw power with 135 hp compared to 110 hp, a 25-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Lincoln Zephyr uses a V12 L-head displacing 4,382 cc, while the Hispano-Suiza H6B relies on a Inline-6 SOHC with 6,597 cc. The 1936 Lincoln Zephyr V12 Continental claims a higher top speed at 90 mph compared to 85 mph. The Lincoln Zephyr carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 809 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 2,350 units built, the 1919 Hispano-Suiza H6B Tulipwood Torpedo is considerably scarcer than the Lincoln Zephyr's 130,000 examples. On the collector market, the 1919 Hispano-Suiza H6B Tulipwood Torpedo commands a significant premium over the 1936 Lincoln Zephyr V12 Continental, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.