1954 Lincoln Capri Convertible

1954 Lincoln Capri Convertible
Chassis no. 54WA6966H
317ci OHV V8 Engine
Single Holley 4-bbl Carburetor
205bhp at 4,200rpm
4-speed HydraMatic Transmission
Independent Front Suspension, Live Rear Axle
4-wheel Power-assisted Hydraulic Drum Brakes

*Lincoln's flagship and most expensive model
*Nicely restored to excellent driver condition
*Continental kit and skirts
*Very well optioned

THE LINCOLN CAPRI

The Capri convertible for 1954 was Lincoln's top-line model, a variant of the handsome Cosmopolitan coupe and sedan series. With a starting price of $4031, this wasn't exactly Cadillac territory, but the Cosmopolitan/Capri series was plush enough to poach some of GM's customers away. The Capri line offered Lincoln's first OHV V8, called the "Y"-block, in 1952, and its displacement grew to 317 cubes by 1954. A large Holley four-barrel carburetor helped this engine deliver 205bhp and a healthy 305 foot-pounds of torque. Lincoln's marketing capitalized on its racing successfully in the punishing Carrera Panamericana, where Capri Hardtop Coupes ran well in 1953 and would claim the top two places in its class in 1954.

Built at Wayne, Michigan, this was a full-sized luxury car on a 123-inch wheelbase, with a massive chrome front grille and bumpers. These Lincolns were well equipped, with many options, up to and including a Continental kit which helped increase trunk space but extended the rear fenders by nearly a foot. Capris were available with tinted glass, power-assisted brakes and steering, power windows and front seat, an AM radio with electric antenna, and in the case of the convertible (Body style 76A), a power-assisted folding top. Interiors were either cloth or optional leather. Lincoln hoods were adorned with a swept-wing, jet airplane-styled ornament, a popular motif in the early to mid 1950s, and the rear quarters bore the Lincoln Vee. Fender skirts completed the very stylish presentation.

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

Presented here is a very attractive 1954 Capri Convertible in driver condition, finished in red with a red and black pleated leather interior, a black folding top, and black top boot. Its data plate indicates this car was the 102nd Capri built, with a completion date of November 30, 1954. This Lincoln was optioned with a "Continental" spare tire package. This included a steel cover trimmed in body color and chrome. It is fitted with dual mirrors, chromed wire wheels shod with whitewall tires. All the brightwork appears to be in excellent shape. Seat belts, then rarely seen on American cars, have been installed later. Its odometer currently reads 75,629 miles, but it is not known if this is the actual total. From all appearances, it is ready to drive and enjoy, but it would not take much to freshen this car's underhood cosmetics and complete a restoration to the level this car deserves.