Lincoln’s big news for 1929 was a move to side-mounted spare tires, which the company highly recommended. They reduced the length of the cars visually and removed the need for double spares at the rear. Triplex shatterproof glass was adopted all around, and the radiator shell, lights, and all exterior brightwork were plated in chrome over nickel. The brakes were all internal expanding, the engine rubber-mounted to reduce vibration, and oil pressure increased from 30 to 50 pounds per square inch. There were a dizzying number of body styles: 26 offered by 14 coachbuilders, including Brunn, Dietrich, Judkins, LeBaron, Locke, Waterhouse, and Willoughby, as well as Lincoln’s own shops. Among the Locke offerings was the seven-passenger sport touring, style number 164, of which 88 were made.

Per its factory build record, supplied by the Benson Ford Research Center, the sport touring offered here was assembled in March of 1929, and later that month was supplied to its original owner through the Lincoln branch in Long Beach, California. It appears to have spent much of its life in the Golden State, owned from 1994 to 2011 by Gilbert Buxton of El Cajon, then by Lowell Merriam, an almond grower and passionate car enthusiast in Chowchilla, from whose estate the consignor acquired the Lincoln in 2023.

The car was restored some years ago in its present livery, deep maroon with black fenders, accented by a dark red leather interior and tan cloth top. Desirable accessories include dual side-mounted spares with mirrors, an auxiliary windshield for rear passengers, a single Pilot-Ray driving light, cowl lights, and a luggage rack with trunk.

Model L Lincolns are well-desired by enthusiasts for their excellent performance and rugged dependability on tours and CARavans. This one, offering wonderful panoramic views of scenery and room for up to seven, is ideal for such purposes, and promises much fun to its next caretaker.