USA vs USA — 1936 vs 1981
| Zephyr V12 Continental | Town Car Cartier Edition | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 110 hp | 239 hp |
| Torque | 180 lb-ft | 285 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,382 cc | 4,601 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 16.0 sec | 8.3 sec |
| Top Speed | 90 mph | 115 mph |
| ¼ Mile | — | 16.5 sec |
| Weight | 3,600 lbs | 4,168 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,150 mm | 2,990 mm |
| Length | 5,283 mm | 5,556 mm |
| Units Produced | 130,000 | — |
| Original MSRP | $1,320 | $47,915 |
| Value (Excellent) | $350,000 | $18,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 4/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 2/10 |
Numbers favor the 1981 Lincoln Town Car Cartier Edition with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1936 Lincoln Zephyr V12 Continental offers lighter weight, stronger collectibility, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.
Lincoln has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1936 Lincoln Zephyr V12 Continental with the 1981 Lincoln Town Car Cartier Edition highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1981 Lincoln Town Car Cartier Edition holds a clear advantage in raw power with 239 hp compared to 110 hp, a 129-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 Lincoln Town Car relies on a V8 OHV with 4,601 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1981 Lincoln Town Car Cartier Edition edges ahead at 8.3 seconds versus 16.0 seconds. The Lincoln Zephyr carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 568 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1936 Lincoln Zephyr V12 Continental commands a significant premium over the 1981 Lincoln Town Car Cartier Edition, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1936 Lincoln Zephyr V12 Continental rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.