Prepare to be amazed by the remarkable journey of the Lincoln Continental, Lincoln’s ultra-luxurious car introduced just before World War II. After a hiatus due to the war, the Continental made a comeback in 1946-48 with minimal changes. This particular 1946 Continental, located in Yellow Springs, Ohio, has an intriguing story to tell. Not only does it sport the distinctive styling of the post-war era, but it also boasts a fascinating engine transplant, replacing its original V12 with a Mark II V8. This running example from the Baby Boom Era is now available on craigslist for $19,500, presenting a rare opportunity for automotive enthusiasts. Thanks to T.J. for bringing this unique find to our attention!
The 1946 Continental, along with its 1942 predecessors, featured a notable styling update characterized by large square fenders, giving the car a distinctively boxy and eye-catching appearance. It wasn’t until 1949 that the Continental received a complete redesign. Production numbers were limited, with only 265 coupes and 201 cabriolets (convertibles) assembled in 1946, adding to the model’s exclusivity.
This particular Lincoln Continental carries an intriguing history. Originally purchased new in Florida by a serviceman returning from the war, the owner had dreams of starting a new life. Dissatisfied with the performance of the factory-installed V12 engine, he seized the opportunity to acquire a more powerful V8 from a wrecked 1957 Continental. A professional swap ensued, resulting in the installation of a 368 cubic inch Y-block V8 engine. With just 50 miles on the new engine at the time of the transplant, this Continental gained a significant boost in power. Additionally, the car was equipped with a manual transmission instead of the typical automatic found in ’57 Lincolns. Recent improvements include a new carburetor, ensuring smooth and reliable performance.
While this Lincoln Continental retains its original, albeit worn, paint and interior materials, it remains remarkably free from corrosion, except for some rust spots on the floorboard. Restoring this classic beauty could be a labor of love, requiring a substantial investment of time and resources. Alternatively, one could opt for a more straightforward approach, replacing the tires and other consumables to enjoy the car’s charm on weekend drives. As the proud owner of a ’46 Continental equipped with a ’57 V8 engine, you’ll certainly turn heads wherever you go. A thorough cleaning and perhaps a fresh coat of wax will help bring out its true splendor, as this magnificent automobile hasn’t seen a bath in five years. Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to own a piece of automotive history with an unexpected twist!
