1936 Lincoln Zephyr Sedan

Summary

Automobiles, like other everyday objects, underwent streamlining in the 1930s. The 1936 Lincoln Zephyr joined aerodynamic styling with attractiveness. Its flowing teardrop shape suggests motion. Its V-shaped grille slices the air. Headlights blend smoothly into the front fenders. Rear fenders hug the body and fender skirts hide the rear wheels. Even the tail lights are streamlined. The Zephyr was a streamlining success.

Automobiles, like other everyday objects, underwent streamlining in the 1930s. The 1936 Lincoln Zephyr joined aerodynamic styling with attractiveness. Its flowing teardrop shape suggests motion. Its V-shaped grille slices the air. Headlights blend smoothly into the front fenders. Rear fenders hug the body and fender skirts hide the rear wheels. Even the tail lights are streamlined. The Zephyr was a streamlining success.

Artifact

Automobile

Date Made

1935

Creators

Ford Motor Company. Lincoln Motor Company 

Gregorie, E. T., 1908-2002 

Tjaarda, John, 1897-1962 

Place of Creation

United States, Michigan, Detroit 

Creator Notes

Manufactured by the Lincoln Motor Company Division of Ford Motor Company in Detroit, Michigan based on designs by John Tjaarda and Eugene (Bob) Gregorie.

Driving America
 On Exhibit

at Henry Ford Museum in Driving America

Object ID

38.177.1

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford. Gift of Ford Motor Company.

Material

Metal
Glass (Material)
Cloth
Rubber (Material)
Chromium

Color

Greenish gray
Gray (Color)

Dimensions

Height: 67.75 in

Width: 71.25 in

Length: 202.5 in

Inscriptions

Hubs, in blue: LINCOLN / ZEPHYR On radiator, in gold letters on blue ribbed enamel: LINCOLN / ZEPHYR V-12 On trunk handle: LINCOLN / ZEPHYR / V-12

Specifications

Make & Model: 1936 Lincoln Zephyr sedan

Maker: Ford Motor Company, Dearborn, Michigan

Engine: V-12, L-head valves, 267 cubic inches

Transmission: 3-speed manual, synchromesh on top 2 speeds

Height: 68 inches

Wheelbase: 122 inches

Width: 71.5 inches

Overall length: 202.5 inches

Weight: 3349 pounds

Horsepower: 110 at 3900 revolutions per minute

Pounds per horsepower: 30.4

Price: $1,320

Average 1936 wage: $1,115 per year

Time you'd work to buy this car: about 1 year, 2 months

Related Content

Connect 3

Discover curious connections between artifacts.

Learn More