The Lincoln Zephyr, a nameplate that has appeared on two distinct Lincoln models, represents different eras of automotive design and customer expectations. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each Zephyr iteration is crucial for collectors, enthusiasts, and anyone considering purchasing one. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the best and worst years for the Lincoln Zephyr, offering insights into reliability, performance, and overall value.
Lincoln Zephyr Year-by-Year Breakdown
| Year Range | Model | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| 1936-1940 | Original Lincoln-Zephyr V12 | Classic Styling: Art Deco design, streamlined bodies, and suicide doors. V12 Engine: Unique flathead V12, known for smoothness but also potential reliability issues due to overheating and complex design. Rarity: Early models are highly collectible. Restoration Challenges: Parts can be difficult and expensive to source. Rust: Prone to rust, especially in lower body panels. Value: Increasing in value as classic cars. Handling: Challenging by modern standards. Best Years (Subjective): 1937-1939 for design refinements. |
| 1941-1942 | Lincoln-Zephyr (Facelift) | Updated Design: More integrated fenders and a generally more modern (for the time) appearance. Mechanical Similarities: Shared the V12 engine, with similar reliability concerns. Limited Production: Production halted due to World War II. Collectibility: Still desirable, but slightly less so than pre-war models. Parts Availability: Remains a challenge for restoration. Rust: Still a significant concern. Value: High, but often less than pre-war models. Improvements: Minor improvements to cooling system attempted. |
| 2006 | Lincoln Zephyr (First Generation) | Modern Sedan: Entry-level luxury sedan with a focus on comfort and style. Duratec V6: Reliable 3.0L Duratec V6 engine. Transmission: Ford’s 6F35 6-speed automatic transmission, generally reliable. Interior Quality: Decent interior materials and build quality for its time. Common Issues: Potential issues with throttle body and electronic systems. Fuel Economy: Moderate fuel economy for its class. Depreciation: Depreciated significantly, making it an affordable used car. Value: Good value for a used luxury sedan. Safety: Good safety ratings for its time. |
| 2007-2012 | Lincoln MKZ (Zephyr Rebrand) | Name Change: Renamed the MKZ in 2007. Engine Options: Introduction of a 3.5L V6 and a hybrid powertrain. Transmission: Continued use of Ford’s 6-speed automatic. Interior Upgrades: Minor interior upgrades and feature enhancements. Reliability: Generally reliable, with the 3.5L V6 being a strong point. Hybrid: The hybrid model offered improved fuel economy. Value: Still a good value on the used market. Concerns: Some reports of water leaks and electronic issues. MKZ Specific: The 2010 MKZ received a significant facelift, improving its appearance. |
Detailed Explanations
1936-1940 Original Lincoln-Zephyr V12: These models represent the quintessential Art Deco automotive design. The streamlined bodies and suicide doors are iconic. However, the flathead V12 engine, while smooth, can suffer from overheating and maintenance complexities. Rust is a major concern, and finding parts for restoration can be challenging and costly. Despite these issues, their rarity and classic appeal drive up their value significantly. 1937-1939 are often favored for design refinements and minor mechanical improvements implemented over the initial 1936 offering.
1941-1942 Lincoln-Zephyr (Facelift): These models received a facelift, featuring more integrated fenders and a more modern appearance. While mechanically similar to the pre-war models, production was limited due to the onset of World War II, making them somewhat less common than the earlier versions. They share the same V12 engine, with the same reliability concerns. Parts availability remains a challenge, and rust is still a significant concern. Their value is high, but often less than the pre-war models due to the slightly less distinctive styling and shorter production run. Cooling system improvements, while attempted, were not always effective.
2006 Lincoln Zephyr (First Generation): The 2006 Lincoln Zephyr represents a modern interpretation of the name, as an entry-level luxury sedan. It features a reliable 3.0L Duratec V6 engine and a generally dependable 6-speed automatic transmission. The interior quality was decent for its time. Potential issues include throttle body problems and electronic glitches. Fuel economy is moderate for its class. Due to depreciation, it's an affordable option on the used car market, offering good value for a used luxury sedan. Safety ratings were also good for its era.
2007-2012 Lincoln MKZ (Zephyr Rebrand): The Zephyr was renamed the MKZ in 2007. Engine options expanded to include a 3.5L V6 and a hybrid powertrain. The 6-speed automatic transmission continued to be used. Minor interior upgrades and feature enhancements were implemented. The 3.5L V6 is known for its reliability. The hybrid model offered improved fuel economy. While generally reliable, some owners have reported water leaks and electronic issues. The 2010 MKZ received a significant facelift, improving its overall appearance and appeal. These models offer good value on the used market.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Lincoln Zephyr is the most collectible? The original Lincoln-Zephyr V12 models from 1936-1940 are generally considered the most collectible due to their Art Deco styling and historical significance.
What are the most common problems with the classic Lincoln-Zephyr V12? Overheating is a frequent issue due to the V12 engine's design, and rust can be a significant problem, especially in the lower body panels.
Is the 2006 Lincoln Zephyr a reliable car? The 2006 Zephyr is generally considered reliable, particularly with its 3.0L Duratec V6 engine, although some owners have reported throttle body and electronic issues.
What is the difference between the Lincoln Zephyr and the Lincoln MKZ? The Lincoln MKZ is simply a rebadged version of the Lincoln Zephyr, with the name changing in 2007, but the MKZ also offered more engine options and some feature enhancements.
Are parts readily available for the classic Lincoln Zephyr? Finding parts for the classic Lincoln-Zephyr, especially the pre-war models, can be difficult and expensive, requiring specialized suppliers and restoration experts.
Is the Lincoln MKZ hybrid a good choice? The Lincoln MKZ hybrid offers improved fuel economy compared to the non-hybrid models and is generally reliable, making it a good choice for those seeking a fuel-efficient luxury sedan.
Conclusion
Choosing the "best" Lincoln Zephyr depends heavily on individual preferences and priorities. The original V12 models offer unparalleled classic appeal, but come with significant restoration and maintenance challenges. The 2006 Zephyr and subsequent MKZ models provide a more modern and reliable driving experience at an affordable price point on the used market. Consider your budget, mechanical aptitude, and desired level of classic or modern features before making a decision.