USA vs USA — 1959 vs 1952
| Coupe de Ville 390 V8 | Capri Custom Coupe V8 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 325 hp | 205 hp |
| Torque | 420 lb-ft | 310 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 6,390 cc | 5,196 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 10.8 sec | 12.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 120 mph | 108 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.8 sec | 18.0 sec |
| Weight | 4,800 lbs | 4,400 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,302 mm | 3,124 mm |
| Length | 5,715 mm | 5,461 mm |
| Units Produced | 21,924 | — |
| Original MSRP | $5,252 | $3,549 |
| Value (Excellent) | $150,000 | $55,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 5/10 |
On balance, the 1959 Cadillac Coupe de Ville 390 V8 makes a stronger case on paper with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. However, the 1952 Lincoln Capri Custom Coupe V8 counters with lighter weight, better value, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1959 Cadillac Coupe de Ville 390 V8 for outright capability, or the 1952 Lincoln Capri Custom Coupe V8 for a more distinctive ownership experience.
In the world of Luxury cars, few comparisons generate as much discussion as the 1959 Cadillac Coupe de Ville 390 V8 versus the 1952 Lincoln Capri Custom Coupe V8. Both hail from Post-war and represent the pinnacle of their respective manufacturers' ambitions. The 1959 Cadillac Coupe de Ville 390 V8 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 325 hp compared to 205 hp, a 120-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Cadillac Coupe de Ville uses a V8 OHV (Cadillac 390) displacing 6,390 cc, while the Lincoln Capri relies on a V8 OHV (Lincoln Y-block 317) with 5,196 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1959 Cadillac Coupe de Ville 390 V8 edges ahead at 10.8 seconds versus 12.0 seconds. The Lincoln Capri carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 400 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1959 Cadillac Coupe de Ville 390 V8 commands a significant premium over the 1952 Lincoln Capri Custom Coupe V8, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1959 Cadillac Coupe de Ville 390 V8 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.