Lincoln Zephyr

vs

Lincoln Town Car

USA vs USA — 1936 vs 1981

Lincoln Zephyr (1936)
Lincoln Town Car (1981)
Specifications
Zephyr V12 ContinentalTown Car Cartier Edition
Horsepower110 hp239 hp
Torque180 lb-ft285 lb-ft
Engine Size4,382 cc4,601 cc
0-60 mph16.0 sec8.3 sec
Top Speed90 mph115 mph
¼ Mile16.5 sec
Weight3,600 lbs4,168 lbs
Wheelbase3,150 mm2,990 mm
Length5,283 mm5,556 mm
Units Produced130,000
Original MSRP$1,320$47,915
Value (Excellent)$350,000$18,000
Collectibility9/104/10
Rarity7/102/10
The Verdict

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.

Overview

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.