USA vs USA — 1929 vs 1939
| 810/812 812 Supercharged | Zephyr Continental | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 190 hp | 120 hp |
| Torque | 280 lb-ft | 240 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,729 cc | 4,785 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 13.0 sec | 16.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 110 mph | 93 mph |
| Weight | 3,902 lbs | 3,900 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,175 mm | 3,150 mm |
| Length | 4,953 mm | 5,232 mm |
| Units Produced | 2,320 | 404 |
| Original MSRP | $2,545 | $2,840 |
| Value (Excellent) | $500,000 | $175,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 8/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1929 Cord 810/812 812 Supercharged excels in more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed, while the 1939 Lincoln Zephyr Continental stands out for greater rarity, better value. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
Among Luxury enthusiasts, the matchup between the 1929 Cord 810/812 812 Supercharged and 1939 Lincoln Zephyr 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 810/812 812 Supercharged holds a clear advantage in raw power with 190 hp compared to 120 hp, a 70-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Cord 810/812 uses a V8 Lycoming Supercharged displacing 4,729 cc, while the Lincoln Zephyr relies on a V12 Flathead with 4,785 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1929 Cord 810/812 812 Supercharged edges ahead at 13.0 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 Cord 810/812's 2,320 examples.