RM Sotheby’s will offer Batman-inspired Lincoln Zephyr hot rod at auction on June 24-25

Very few modified vehicles could be considered as icons of their generation; however, the 1939 Lincoln Zephyr Coupe is a remarkable exception and has since became a notable vehicle ever since it was made. Now the modified automobile even has its unique moniker, the "Scrape".

The 1939 legendary Lincoln Zephyr is highly regarded by most car enthusiasts and is seen as a classic aesthetic automobile, and this modified version took its awesomeness to a whole new level. If you are wondering why the Zephyr Scrape is considered an icon, then the following story will give you a glimpse of how it got its fame. The said vehicle is the creation of former Hot Rod magazine editor Terry Cook, who spent a lot of years coming up with the rare design.

It was made to combine the finest features of the Zephyr: its cowl-back appearance stemming from the 1938-'39 models and the appealing snout of its '40-'41 unit years. The former editor then hooked them up to come up with the Scrape creation. A lot of custom builders sacrificed their precious times just to utilize it for the vehicle's body construction, and finally a design was chosen: a low riding, chop-top Lincoln.

What’s under the long bonnet is not totally known but it is believed to come with double exhaust pipes that can spit flames, so it is probable that the original 110hp 4.4 L V12 engine has been swapped with something more impressive.

The front and back fenders were broadened, its pillars were divided and cleaned up neatly, and the top roof was slashed down to belly button length. Interior wise, it still has the original dashboard, steering wheel and seats although a dash of modern detail was applied, brought by its black gloss bits and 2 tone leather upholstery that beautifully wraps all the surfaces of the doors, seats and others.

Its final build soared through the hierarchy of the rod and custom culture around the 1900s, and landed in its very first cover in the Street Rodder. Its popularity didn't just stop there, as it has been highlighted in various car care products, and rightfully claimed its spot by being having its own Hot Wheel version by Mattel. This one-of-a-kind coupe also snagged the rights of being the first ever custom car to sit flat on the ground, with its hydraulics fully dropped. The iconic vehicle was sold in an auction in Pebble Beach in 1999 following Cook's ownership, and after the exchange of $250,000.

Afterwards, it settled in at the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles for years. The rare vehicle will be up for auction at the RM Sotheby’s in Santa Monica, California on June 24 to 25. The Scrape is estimated to be sold for between $300,000 to $400,000.