Lincoln Model KB 1934 Convertible Sedan 281 by Dietrich
Car producer :  |
Lincoln |
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Model: |
Model KB 1934 Convertible Sedan 281 by Dietrich |
Year: |
1931-1939 |
Type: |
Cabriolet |
The Lincoln K-Series (also called the Model K, reflecting the earlier Ford Model K) was a line of luxury vehicle produced by Lincoln from 1930 to 1940. While the original K-Series featured a 385 in³ (6.3 L) V8, a V12 became standard in 1933. Customers also had the choice of ordering a fully custom coachwork.
The original Model K appeared in the 1931 model year on a new chassis with a 145 in (3683 mm) wheelbase. Factory bodies included a 2- or 4-door phaeton, the latter available as a dual-cowl model. The 384.8 in³ (6.3 L) engine was a derivative of the earlier L-series 60° V8, but a dual venturi downdraft Stromberg carburetor, higher compression, and altered timing upped power to 120 hp (89 kW).
The renowned Waterhouse Company of Webster, Massachusetts had a short time in the limelight due to the economic climate of the era, but during this period they designed and built coachwork whose influences carried on. Custom bodies, such as this Convertible Victoria, personified the company’s slogan "A Recognized Reputation for Smart Sport Models". Among the custom Waterhouse touches seen in this car are the distinct door moldings and extended cowl, as well as the extraordinarily low, raked windshield. Its total presence is one of understated sportiness whether the top is fixed or lowered.
The two brands would continue to share a stylistic connection and both would receive new power plants. Ford would adopt the legendary flathead V-8 and Lincoln would get a powerful V-12. Initially employing the "fork and blade" design of the Leyland designed V-8 the new engine was smooth, robust and significantly more powerful than the eight. The Lincoln K-series was split in 1932 into two lines, the V8 carryover Model KA short wheelbase and the new V12-powered Model KB long wheelbase. The V8 car reverted to a 136 in (3454 mm) wheelbase, though engine output was pushed to 125 hp (93 kW). The KB, on the other hand, featured the marque's new L-head V12 engine. The 447.9 cuin (7.3 L) 65° L-head unit produced 150 hp (112 kW).
Both series featured a new grille with less of a surround, vent doors rather than vertical louvers on the sides of the hood, a parking light on top of each front fender, and 18 inch wire wheels.
The new Lincolns for 1932 showed a refined styling that significantly updated the aging L model. The fresh look incorporated a Ford style radiator shell, and the car rode on more modern 18" wire spoke wheels, and was offered in, as was customary for Lincoln, an extensive catalog of body styles including many expensive custom styles. Lincoln's custom offering was very impressive; they had cataloged styles from most top custom body makers including LeBaron, Dietrich, Willoughby, Waterhouse and Brunn.
The KB chassis would earn legendary status in period and today is a highly desirable senior CCCA classic. Praised for its excellent driving qualities, with exceptionally light and predictable steering and fine power-boosted brakes, the KB has become quite popular with seasoned classic era enthusiasts with an appetite for touring.
The V8 engine was replaced in the Model KA with a new L-head 67° V-12 381.7 in³ (6.3 L), which Lincoln engineers designed for 1933 models to succeed the 60° V-8 designed by Henry Martyn Leland, for 1933. This L-head engine shared little with the big KB engine which continued unchanged.
The 1933 K-series Lincolns featured many changes, only a few of which were readily visible. The removal of the bar linking the headlights and return of hood louvers was most noticeable, but the revised chassis, thermostatic shock absorbers, and transmission made the greatest difference. Drivers would notice the adjustable-pressure brakes. A new-for-1933 front end styling updated the look of the car considerably, while stylistically Lincoln did take a step backwards, reverting to a louvered hood. This mistake would be corrected when the hood doors returned in 1934.
85 built with this attractive open coachwork by Murray, this 1933 KA convertible coupe is equipped with the Lincoln V-12. Built on a 136" wheelbase and equipped with Trippe lights, dual sidemounted spares with mirrors, wide whitewall tires with wheel discs, a luggage rack, rumble seat, Trippe auxiliary lights and 3-position soft top, it is the essence of sporting elegance from the Thirties. The car has been fitted with high speed gears to facilitate relaxed cruising at modern highway speeds. Impressively detailed and maintained, this is an outstanding acquisition for anyone seeking a quality, luxurious, sporting convertible with rollup windows for tours, event and shows.
Things got back on track for 1934. The styling was refined and the new models had a polished modern look. A new larger version of the 1933 KA engine was now adopted for the KB model; this more modern engine, though slightly smaller than the original KB V-12, was rated at identical horsepower. Both V12 engines were replaced for 1934 by a single 414 in³ (6.8 L) version of the new Model KA V12, with the KA and KB names now denoting the wheelbase only. Styling changes included a body-colored grille surround and the replacement once again of louvers with doors on the side of the hood.