Test Drive - 1947 Lincoln Continental Cabriolet!

This is a rare 1947 Lincoln Continental Cabriolet that is a rust-free Southern California car with only two owners since 1974. The latest owner had it beautifully restored and was the caretaker of the Cabriolet for 46 years. Only 738 Cabriolets were produced in 1947 and as a CCCA “Full Classic” this Continental can participate in CARavans and concours events. The Post War Lincolns were favored by Hollywood stars and the elite and are still fantastic designs. This Lincoln is a beautiful example and is perfect for touring and shows.

This is a beautiful rust-free Southern California car from new. By July 8, 1974, this Lincoln was acquired by Mr. James Riffenburgh of Big Bear Lake, CA. Mr. Riffenburgh enjoyed the Lincoln until it was acquired by Mr. Fred Sattler, also of Big Bear Lake, CA on September 22, 1977. Mr. Sattler commissioned a complete restoration in about 2000 and cared for and maintained the Lincoln until his passing.

This Lincoln benefitted from a complete restoration by Mr. Sattler. The beautiful livery is rich Lincoln Maroon (Paint Code 14135) and has beautiful luster and shine overall. There are a few minor paint imperfections that are only noticeable upon close inspection. The chrome and steel trim are in very nice overall condition with fine swirl marks in some high use areas. The Cabriolet comes complete with well-fitting fender skirts. The hydraulically operated tan canvas convertible top fits well, functions as designed and is in nice overall condition with only a few small imperfections. The top boot snaps well into place and is a proper fit. Continental’s most famous hallmark is its rear-mounted, exposed spare tire, which gave way to the popular after-market “Continental Kits”. Another beautiful feature is the circular push button door releases which help streamline the sleek exterior look. This stunning exterior of the E.T. “Bob” Gregorie designed Lincoln is a gorgeous example with its maroon paint, tan canvas top and wide white wall tire combination.

The interior is finished in beautiful deep red leather upholstery which is comfortable and shows very well overall. The red Wilton Wool Carpet is in nice condition showing little wear. The dash, gauges and interior chrome are all in nice condition. The AM radio is beautiful condition and the hydraulic power windows work well. The gauges all function properly apart from the radio and the clock. A beautifully designed feature is the circular push button door releases which streamline the interior as they do on the exterior.

The engine compartment is very well detailed and painted and shows beautifully overall. The 1946 through 1948 Lincolns were the only post war American car produced with a V-12 engine. The 292 ci Flathead V-12 produces 120 hp and the power is transferred to the rear differential through the 3-speed on the column manual transmission. The V-12 runs beautifully and operates quietly as does the manual transmission.

The Cabriolet comes complete with California registration slips dating back to 1974 and the 1947 Lincoln Operator’s Manual and an original sales brochure. This beautiful Lincoln is a joy to drive and shows very well. It would a welcome addition to any American automotive collection and is perfect to show or for touring.

For more information and details, please call or text Classic Promenade at +1.623.404.9042 or email us at sales@classicpromenade.com. This Lincoln Continental Cabriolet is available for inspection at our Phoenix showroom. We are pleased to offer FaceTime or WhatsApp live video inspections and we help coordinate shipping worldwide. We also have financing partners if you are interested in financing.