Lincoln Continental: A Comprehensive Guide
The Lincoln Continental is an iconic nameplate that has graced some of the most luxurious and influential vehicles in American automotive history. Spanning multiple generations, it represents Lincoln's ambition to compete with the best the world has to offer. From its initial conception as a personal luxury car to its later iterations as a full-size sedan, the Continental has consistently strived for elegance, comfort, and technological innovation. This guide will explore the history, generations, common issues, driving experience, and buying advice for those interested in owning a piece of Lincoln's legacy.
Generations of the Lincoln Continental
First Generation (1939-1948)
The original Continental was born out of Edsel Ford's desire for a stylish, European-inspired personal car. It was initially built on a modified Lincoln-Zephyr chassis.
- Key Changes: Introduced the "Continental" name and its distinctive long hood/short trunk design, considered an instant classic. Offered as a coupe or convertible. Production was halted during World War II and resumed briefly afterward.
Second Generation (1956-1957)
The Continental Mark II was a separate brand within Ford, designed to be the ultimate luxury car. It was meticulously crafted and extremely expensive for its time.
- Key Changes: A completely new design focused on unparalleled quality and exclusivity. Featured a powerful V8 engine and luxurious interior. Available only as a two-door hardtop.
Third Generation (1961-1969)
This generation marked a significant shift with its slab-sided design and rear-hinged "suicide doors". It became a symbol of sophistication and was widely popular.
- Key Changes: Unibody construction, four doors with rear doors hinged at the rear. Clean, modern styling. Introduction of the Continental sedan and convertible.
Fourth Generation (1970-1979)
The Continental grew larger and heavier during this period, reflecting the trends of the era. It still prioritized luxury and comfort.
- Key Changes: Even larger dimensions and a more imposing presence. Available as a sedan or coupe. Emphasis on luxury features and ride quality.
Fifth Generation (1980)
A very short-lived generation, attempting to downsize the Continental in response to fuel economy concerns.
- Key Changes: Significantly smaller dimensions compared to its predecessor. Only offered as a sedan.
Sixth Generation (1982-1987)
This generation was based on the Ford Fox platform, shared with the Mustang and other Ford models. It offered improved fuel economy and handling.
- Key Changes: Smaller and lighter than previous generations. More fuel-efficient engines. A less formal roofline than previous models.
Seventh Generation (1988-1994)
This generation moved to a front-wheel-drive platform and featured a more aerodynamic design.
- Key Changes: Front-wheel drive, more rounded styling. Air suspension was available. Featured advanced technology for its time.
Eighth Generation (1995-2002)
A further evolution of the seventh generation, with updated styling and improved performance.
- Key Changes: Minor styling updates. Improved engine performance. Focus on comfort and technology.
Ninth Generation (2017-2020)
Lincoln revived the Continental nameplate with a flagship sedan aimed at competing with premium European brands.
- Key Changes: Return of the Continental name after a 15-year hiatus. Rear-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive platform. Luxurious interior and advanced technology. Short production run.
Reliability & Common Issues
The reliability of the Lincoln Continental varies significantly by generation. Here's a breakdown:
Classic Continentals (Pre-1980):
- Pros: Relatively simple mechanical design (depending on the year), strong engines.
- Cons: Age-related issues (rust, deterioration of rubber components), potential difficulty finding parts, carburetor issues on older models.
- Specific Issues:
- Continental Mark II (1956-1957): Corrosion, electrical issues due to age, and finding qualified technicians for repair.
- 1961-1969 Models: Suicide door mechanisms can be complex and require maintenance.
- 1970s Models: Vacuum leaks are a common issue that affects performance and fuel economy.
Fox-Body & Front-Wheel-Drive Continentals (1980-2002):
- Pros: More readily available parts, generally more affordable to maintain than classic models.
- Cons: Less luxurious feel compared to earlier models, potential for transmission issues (especially in the 1990s models), air suspension problems (if equipped).
- Specific Issues:
- 1980s Models: Automatic transmissions prone to failure, electrical gremlins.
- 1990s Models: Air suspension systems require frequent maintenance and are expensive to repair, cooling system leaks.
2017-2020 Continentals:
- Pros: Modern technology and safety features, powerful engines, comfortable ride.
- Cons: Limited production run, potential for electronic glitches, depreciation.
- Specific Issues:
- Infotainment system issues, some reports of transmission problems with the 3.0L twin-turbo V6. Check for proper operation of all electronic features.
General Tips: Regardless of the generation, a thorough pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is crucial. Pay close attention to fluid leaks, engine noise, transmission shifting, and the condition of the suspension and brakes. Check for rust, especially in areas prone to corrosion.
Driving Experience
The driving experience varies widely across the Continental's history:
Classic Continentals:
Offer a unique and stately driving experience. Focus is on comfort and style rather than performance. Expect a smooth ride, but handling may be less precise than modern cars.
Fox-Body & Front-Wheel-Drive Continentals:
Provide a more modern driving feel, with improved handling and fuel economy. The front-wheel-drive models are less engaging to drive than the rear-wheel-drive classics. The ride is generally comfortable, but not as luxurious as earlier models.
2017-2020 Continentals:
Offer a blend of luxury and performance. The available 3.0L twin-turbo V6 provides strong acceleration. The ride is smooth and comfortable, and the interior is well-appointed. The available all-wheel-drive system enhances handling and stability.
Buying Advice
Here's some advice for those considering a Lincoln Continental:
Years to Look For:
- 1961-1969: Considered by many to be the most iconic and desirable generation, offering classic styling and collectibility.
- 2017-2020: A modern take on the Continental, offering a luxurious and technologically advanced driving experience. Relatively rare, so find the features you desire before making the leap.
Years to Avoid (or be extra cautious about):
- 1980: The drastically downsized model lacks the appeal of other generations and can be difficult to find parts for.
- Late 1990s: Potential for air suspension and transmission issues. Requires careful inspection.
Key Considerations:
- Budget: Classic Continentals can range in price from affordable to extremely expensive, depending on condition and rarity. Modern Continentals (2017-2020) are typically priced higher than older models.
- Maintenance: Be prepared for higher maintenance costs with classic models. Modern Continentals are generally more reliable but may require specialized repairs.
- Use Case: Consider how you plan to use the car. Classic Continentals are best suited for occasional cruising and car shows. Modern Continentals are better suited for daily driving and long trips.
- Condition: Always prioritize condition over price. A well-maintained example will save you money and headaches in the long run. A pre-purchase inspection is essential.
Ultimately, the best Lincoln Continental for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Do your research, take your time, and choose a car that you will enjoy for years to come.
```