Aqua Blue metallic paint
White leather interior
Black vinyl roof
460 cid V8 engine, with four barrel carburetor.
Develops 365 hp and 500 ft lbs of torque.
C6 automatic transmission
2:91 rear differential
24,326 miles
A highly original car, in impeccable condition.
In 1969, Lee Iacocca directed his design team to develop a two door luxury car, branded a Lincoln Continental , designed to compete with, and outsell the highly successful Cadillac Eldorado. He placed a heavy emphasis on getting the new car to market asap. At this time, the “personal luxury coupe,” was a relatively new segment.
Ford’s own Thunderbird , the Buick Riviera, and Oldsmobile Toronado , and Cadillac Eldorado all occupied this space.
The Eldorado was larger and more expensive, and as such was frequently compared to a Rolls Royce. It was having its day in the sun by 1969, and Ford had nothing to answer it.
As such, Iacocca demanded that the front grille of this new car, resemble that of a Rolls Royce.
To save time and costs, it was decided to use the platform of the Thunderbird. However the car was substantially larger.
Styling would include the traditional spare tire “hump” on the trunk lid. Proportions would include long overhangs at each end of the car, and exude style, power and grace.
Driving this car feels like a special occasion.
It moves over the road with a soft, deliberate ride. New York potholes just disappear under the car as you drive over them.
Handling is surprisingly good, as long as you drive smoothly. It doesn’t like sudden direction changes, but has very good road holding manners generally.
All the while, it’s tight as a drum over bumps. The body doesn’t shake, and the interior is free of squeaks.
The build quality is evident throughout. Check out the gorgeous, brushed aluminum and chrome trimmed data plate on the radiator support! It must have cost a fortune to make, and its sole purpose was to boldly display the impressive engine statistics.
The chrome trim along the body, perfectly fitted, its profile shape matching that of the wheel covers. Vacuum operated windows and headlight doors for quiet operation. A Cartier clock. Auto dimming headlights. Real wood used for the interior trim. The wheel covers are brushed steel with aluminum turbine fins.
Attention to detail on this car is second to none.
What a testament to American design prowess, and the people who pushed this design from concept to production.