From the very start, Lincoln's famous Continental model was offered in only coupe and convertible trim—but the styling carried over very neatly to Lincoln's sedans. Initially carrying the Zephyr name, the end of the WWII also marked the end of Lincoln's usage of that moniker, for the next 60 years anyhow. In the first years of civilian car production, Lincoln chose to simply name their cars after their model designations, thus giving way to the heart-stirring and emotive name for their 1946 sedan: 66H.

The pre-WWII Zephyrs and post-WWII 66H sedans borrowed heavily from the Continental. Styling was very similar, especially at the front. Bob Gregorie's masterful design worked as well on four doors as it did on two, with a slightly taller roofline leading back to a smooth, sloping rear end that made for a practical but handsome luxury sedan. The drivetrain was Lincoln's familiar twelve pot motor. Lincoln had relied exclusively on V-12 engines since 1933 and the 66H was no different using a 75-degree, 292ci (4,787cc) L-head sidevalve producing 120bhp. Power was funneled through a three-speed manual gearbox with optional overdrive.

When Lincoln's production lines resumed automobile manufacture towards the end of 1945 it was with mildly revised '42 models. Mirroring the pricier Continental, the 66H featured an egg-crate grill and other styling cues to differentiate it from the handful of cars produced for the 1942 model year. The button doors from the Continental also appeared on the 66H.

This 66H is in strikingly original condition, having been stored for the last few decades. Dirty, but complete, it is a rare survivor of a model not often seen in the flesh. Few 66Hs were built, for reasons of economy and market reception. As the practical alternative to the Continental, they have often seen more hard use than time at car shows, owing to their current scarcity and the unlikelihood of seeing another at the next local meet. A lovely project for the winter months, it will make for a great touring car come the warmer seasons!

Without reserve