1934 Lincoln Model KA Series 521 Convertible Roadster

The Lincoln marque was nearly ended shortly after its introduction due to a sharp post-WWI economic recession and other issues. Thankfully, it was saved from receivership by Henry Ford in 1922 and was led by Henry Ford's son, Edsel Ford, to become a prominent marque in the American luxury car market.

The Model K replaced Henry Leland's (who founded Cadillac in 1902 and was the founder of Lincoln) Model L in 1931. This was the first new Lincoln model under Ford ownership, and its fresh styling boosted sales. In 1932, the Lincoln line of vehicles was expanded with the V-8 powered KA riding a 135-inc wheelbase and the V-12 powered KB on a 145-inch wheelbase.

In 1933 a 382 cubic-inch, V-12 engine was introduced to the KA model range, creating a more affordable alternative to the Model KB. The KA was based upon the KB's design and was less expensive to produce and was simpler. A year later, the engine capacity grew to 414 cubic inches and the new design became Lincoln's sole powerplant until 1936. Styling for Lincoln automobiles remained mostly unchanged for 1934, yet they were refined with body-color radiator shells, and cooling shutters replaced the earlier louvered hood treatment. Another styling feature were the smaller headlights.

This Lincoln KA 2/4-Passenger Convertible Roadster is one of only 75 examples originally produced. It was given a high-quality, professional restoration to concours standards that was completed in 1999. After the work was completed, it won Best in Class at the 1999 Meadow Brook Concours d'Elegance and in 2000 it was displayed at Eyes on Design, held at the Edsel & Eleanor Ford House in Grosse Pointe Shores, Michigan.

In 2012, this car was offered for sale at the Amelia Island auction presented by RM Auctions. The car was estimated to sell for $175,000 - $225,000. As bidding came to a close, the car had been sold for $192,500 inclusive of buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Apr 2012