Image of 1942 Lincoln Custom, sourced from www.flickr.com , Image Link.

Unveiling the Elegance of the 1942 Lincoln Custom

Stepping into the limelight with an aura of sophistication, the 1942 Lincoln Custom stands as a testament to American luxury during an era of global upheaval. Crafted by the esteemed Lincoln division of the Ford Motor Company, this vehicle emerged as a beacon of automotive excellence. Born in a time when the world's focus was on the battlefields of World War II, the Lincoln Custom served as a swan song for civilian automotive opulence before manufacturers shifted their attention to supporting the war effort. A notable moment in its history is its abrupt production halt due to wartime material rationing, making it a rare gem in the automotive world.

Design and Innovation

The 1942 Lincoln Custom's exterior styling was a harmonious blend of flowing lines and bold contours, exuding an air of grace and power. Its elongated hood and prominent grille presented an imposing front fascia, while the teardrop-shaped headlamps integrated seamlessly into the fenders. Inside, occupants were enveloped in luxury with sumptuous leather upholstery and rich wood trim adorning the cabin. The vehicle boasted technological advancements such as a "Liquamatic" transmission, although traditional manual options were more common due to reliability concerns. Color options ranged from conservative hues to more vibrant choices, with deep blues and elegant blacks being among the popular selections. The most iconic body style was undoubtedly the four-door sedan, offering both space and grandeur.

Historical Significance

The 1942 Lincoln Custom's impact on automotive design was significant, introducing features that would set a precedent for post-war luxury vehicles. Its distinctive styling cues and commitment to comfort set it apart from contemporaries and influenced future generations of Lincoln models. The car's historical footprint is marked by its brief production run, which inadvertently created an exclusive legacy that continues to captivate collectors today.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its stately exterior, the 1942 Lincoln Custom housed a potent 305 cubic inch V12 engine that delivered smooth performance befitting its stature. While top speeds and acceleration figures were not paramount in this segment during its era, it provided ample power for a dignified driving experience. On the road, it handled with poise, absorbing imperfections with ease while offering a serene ride quality. Drivers reveled in the symphony of its V12 engine—a subtle yet authoritative rumble that underscored its capabilities without compromising refinement.

Ownership Experience

The Lincoln Custom was not just a showpiece; it found use as a daily driver among the elite and as a ceremonial vehicle for special occasions. Its maintenance demands were typical for high-end cars of its time—requiring attentive care but rewarding owners with reliability when properly serviced. Despite its complexity, many parts were shared with other Ford products, easing repair concerns.

Fun Facts

This illustrious model has several claims to fame: limited production numbers due to its untimely release at war's dawn make each surviving example highly coveted. While specific records are scarce, ownership by influential figures of the era added to its allure. Criticisms were few but often pointed at its Liquamatic transmission option which proved less reliable than desired.

Collector's Information

Today, estimating that fewer than 200 units were produced before production ceased makes each 1942 Lincoln Custom exceedingly rare. Values can vary widely based on condition and provenance but typically range from $60,000 to well over $100,000 for pristine examples. As with many pre-war classics, appreciation is common as these vehicles become scarcer and more sought after by collectors.

Conclusion

The 1942 Lincoln Custom is more than just a classic car; it is a piece of history that reflects both the pinnacle of pre-war American luxury and the turning point at which industry shifted gears for global conflict. Its rarity, elegance, and historical significance ensure that it will continue to be celebrated by enthusiasts and collectors alike for generations to come.

1942 Lincoln Custom Rear Bumper Arm Grommets-BG 46Rear Bumper Arm Grommets. 3-1/2" wide X 4-1/4" long, with 1-3/4" long inner slot. Pair

1942 Lincoln Custom Front Bumper Arm Grommets-BG 47Front Bumper Arm Grommets. 2" wide X 4-1/2" long, with 1-3/4" long inner slot. Pair

1942 Lincoln Custom Clutch and Brake Pedal Pads. 3-1/2" Diameter. Pair-CB 62Clutch and Brake Pedal Pads. 3-1/2" Diameter. Pair

1942 Lincoln Custom Gas Filler Grommet. 2-1/2" I.D., 4-1/8" O.D. Each-GF 24Gas Filler Grommet. 2-1/2" I.D., 4-1/8" O.D. Each

1942 Lincoln Custom Hood Bumper, for Coupes and Convertibles-HF 44-CHood Bumper, for Coupes and Convertibles. '40-'41 Eight used per car, '42-'48 Six used per car. 2" long. Each

1942 Lincoln Custom Bumper to Body Seal. 2" Wide. Sold by the foot-LP 109-KBumper to Body Seal. 2" Wide. Sold by the foot

1942 Lincoln Custom Trunk Hinge Pads. 1-3/8" wide X 4-3/4" long. Set-MP 817Trunk Hinge Pads. 1-3/8" wide X 4-3/4" long. Set

1942 Lincoln Custom Antenna Pad. 1-3/4" O.D. Each-MP 819-FAntenna Pad. 1-3/4" O.D. Each

1942 Lincoln Custom Heel Pad. High quality reproduction. Black. 7" X 14"-RM 15Heel Pad. High quality reproduction. Black. 7" X 14". Each

1942 Lincoln Custom Vertical Seals for Front Vent Window-VS 6-CVertical Seals for Front Vent Window. Made with steel core and bend-over tab. Pair

1942 Lincoln Custom Rear Vent Window Seals, for 4-Door Sedans. Pair R&L-WR 5919-RRear Vent Window Seals, for 4-Door Sedans. Pair R&L