1934 Lincoln Model KB Series 271 Dietrich Convertible Sedan

During the depths of the Great Depression, Lincoln streamlined its operation and adopted a single new V-12 for both its smaller KA and top-of-the-line KM models for 1934. Displacing 414 cubic-inches and offering 150 horsepower, the engine rode in a cruciform double-drop chassis frame, with two models distinguished largely by their wheels: the KA models rode on a 136 inch platform while the KB rested on a larger, 145-inch wheelbase. Another difference between the KA and KB were the number of available body styles. The KB could be had as a chassis for custom coachwork, though many coachworks took advantage of the 'semi-custom' offerings that were produced for Lincoln by the East Coast's finest custom coachbuilders and catalogued by the factory. These bodies were finished to the specifications of each individual customer and offered an unbeatable combination of custom style, quality, and individuality. The listed price was some-what lower than a 'full custom' body.

One of the 'semi-customs' of 1934 was the convertible sedan designed by Raymond Dietrich and built by his imprint of Briggs Manufacturing. They featured a distinctive vee'd windshield, four doors, and a convertible top.

This particular example has a history that is known back to the 1950s, when it was acquired by Lincoln collector Jack Passey from a fellow enthusiast in Modesto, California. The car eventually passed to fellow collector, Bill Smith, at which point it was still original and in nicely running condition.

Smith treated the car to a concours-quality restoration over a three-year period, which ended up being a frame-off process that encompassed the chassis, powertrain, body, upholstery, and top. The work was completed in 2010. The work was rewarded with two First in Class awards at West Coast shows.

For 1934, Lincoln produced 2,149 cars, with just 25 of those being the KB Dietrich Convertible Sedan.

By Daniel Vaughan | Sep 2013