We Love Lincoln's Past, Present And Future...,

New Tires Coming...,

2012-02-07T15:30:00.007-08:00

They have been testing them for several years now. Resilient Tech was developing them for the military application.

Amazing new tires.....Michelin Tires. Kind of SCARY looking. Look for them in August.
These tires are made in South Carolina, USA

SEE THROUGH TIRES

Radical new tire design by Michelin.
The next generation of tires.
They had a pair at the Philadelphia car show.

Yes, those are 'spoke' like connections to the inner part of the tire from the outside tread 'wrap!' The next picture shows how odd it looks in motion.

Makes you wonder how the ride feels, doesn't it?

These tires are airless and are scheduled to be out on the market very soon.
The bad news for law enforcement is that spike strips will not work on these.
Just think of the impact on existing technology:
A. no more air valves.
B. no more air compressors at gas stations.
C. no more repair kits.
D. no more flats.

These are actual pictures taken at the South Carolina plant of Michelin.

Source: Internet

Lincoln MKZ Concept

2012-01-11T11:28:00.001-08:00

Click Here for more pictures and Motor Trends article on this new Concept.

Source: Internet

2013 Lincoln MKS

2012-01-11T11:03:00.000-08:00

Click Here to read the Motor Trend Article.

Source: Internet

2013 Lincoln MKT

2012-01-11T10:58:00.000-08:00

Click Here to read the Motor Trend article.

Source: Internet

Lincoln Teases New Model on Facebook

2012-01-05T19:09:00.000-08:00

Click here to read the article.

Sunshine Special Presidential State Car (United States)

2012-01-02T09:53:00.000-08:00

The Sunshine Special is preserved at the Henry Ford Museum in Michigan

The Sunshine Special was the official state car used by Franklin D. Roosevelt, the 32nd President of the United States. It is said to have been the "First Presidential car to acquire its own personality" although the exact origin of its nickname is unknown. It was a 1939 twelve-cylinder engine, four-door convertible originally built by the Lincoln division of Ford Motor Company and was specifically modified for the President by a specialty coach builder, Brunn & Company, Inc. in Buffalo, New York, at a cost of $4,950 (the original cost of the car was $8,348.74).

Initially called "Old 99," in reference to a number on its first license plate, it was later nicknamed the "Sunshine Special" (the name was most likely first used in a photo caption) as a reference to its retractable roof, and was famously enjoyed by the president, who had its roof brought down during public gatherings. At other times, the car was used as traditional presidential transportation. This was in spite of a previous assassination attempt against Roosevelt as he was riding in a Buick convertible, prior to the creation of the Sunshine Special.

History

Original Specifications

The Sunshine Special was originally a Lincoln K-series built by the Lincoln division of Ford Motor Company, and modified by Brunn & Company to U.S. Government specifications. It was powered by a 150hp, 414 cubic inch V12 L-head engine. The limousine was originally equipped with a siren, running lights, and a 2-way radio, as well as extra-wide running boards and grab handles for Secret Service agents. The vehicle had convertible roof, hence the reasoning for the car's nickname. The car quickly became known as a favorite of the president who was a victim of polio and used a wheelchair. With the convertible top down Roosevelt sometimes appeared before crowds without actually leaving the vehicle. There are newsreels of the time showing the car being driven on stage, such as the podium constructed for a campaign appearance at Ebbets Field in New York in 1944.

Following Pearl Harbor

After the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, the Secret Service began to express concern in relation to potential assassination attempts against the president, as his limousine at that time was not armoured and had no protective features. The following day, December 8 1941, a heavily armored 1928 Cadillac 341A Town Sedan, which had originally belonged to gangster Al Capone, was used to transport the president to the Capitol to deliver his "Infamy" speech. The car had been confiscated by the Treasury Department following Capone's arrest and stored in an impound lot until its ironic final duty. Roosevelt used the Capone car until his Sunshine Special was modified to be capable of protecting him, with armor plating for the doors, bullet-proof tires, inch-thick windows and storage compartments for pistols and sub-machine guns. All of the safety modifications increased the car's weight to 9,300 pounds(4,218 kg). Despite these precautions, Roosevelt preferred to ride with the top down during parades and at most public gatherings. The car was also fitted with the then-current 1942 Lincoln front end in 1942 from the Lincoln H-series.

Travels

When the president traveled, the Sunshine Special along with other Secret Service vehicles were either driven to the president's destination if the distance was short or were transported on a special rail car. One special rail car was equipped with equipment and supplies for the maintenance of the vehicles.

Although some sources allege the Sunshine Special was transported to Tehran, Casablanca, Malta, and Yalta, there appears to be no evidence to confirm this. Wartime censorship makes these claims difficult to disprove; but while there are many photographs and newsreels of President Roosevelt riding in standard military-issue Jeeps during the aforementioned overseas trips, there are no photographs of the Sunshine Special taken on these occasions. The need to maintain secrecy about the President's travel during wartime makes it highly unlikely his special limousine would have been used overseas. The practice of transporting presidential limousines overseas did not start until after the Roosevelt administration. In March 1947 Life Magazine featured a photograph of President Truman visiting the pyramids at Teotihuacan near Mexico City riding in the Sunshine Special or another nearly identical Lincoln.

Following Roosevelt's death

After Roosevelt’s death in 1945, the Sunshine Special remained in the White House fleet and was used by President Truman until a new fleet of Lincoln limousines was acquired after the 1948 election. The limousine is now on permanent display at the Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn, Michigan.

Lincoln Vehicles

2011-12-05T14:45:00.000-08:00

Our commitment is to make Lincoln a world-class luxury brand with compelling vehicles and a consumer experience to match. We continue to re-energize the brand, powering ahead with all-new products.

The 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid – the most fuel-efficient luxury sedan in America with an EPA-certified 41 mpg city – offers all the amenities of a premium midsize sedan and all the environmental benefits of a world-class luxury hybrid vehicle. The new 2011 MKX crossover comes with industry-exclusive technologies, engaging design with world-class luxury craftsmanship, and class-leading power and fuel economy.

Another seven all-new or refreshed Lincolns will follow within three years – all with standout design, class-leading technology and powertrains that enable precise, confident driving.

The future of Lincoln will be led by expanded product development and marketing, sales and service teams to support the brand’s growth. We will also continue to work with our dealers to better serve key luxury vehicle markets and upgrade the consumer experience to meet and exceed the luxury customer expectations. Plans also include Lincoln’s first small vehicle.

Source: Ford

Edsel Ford Brought Design and Elegance to Ford Motor Company Vehicles

2011-11-05T16:00:00.000-07:00

Being an only child must have allowed Edsel a unique relationship with his charismatic father. They certainly had their disagreements and different styles, but they also had tremendous respect, admiration, and love for each other. There's no doubt that his relationship with Edsel is one of the more significant in Henry Ford's life.

Childhood

Edsel Ford can be called a child of the automotive age. Born November 6, 1893, the first days of his life were filled with the newest sound in the country—the “chuck-chuck” of the gasoline engine. He was six weeks old when his father tested the first Ford engine in their kitchen while Edsel slept in his crib a few feet away. He was not yet three when, on June 4, 1896, he shared his father's triumph by riding in Henry's first successful car.

As a young boy, Edsel was interested in the styling and making of automobiles. It is no accident that his first car sketches were made in 1903, for that year marked the founding of Ford Motor Company and the beginning of his father's rise to fame and fortune.

During his years at the Detroit University School, Edsel wrote essays on automobiles and automobile manufacturing. After hours, he visited the busy Ford factory where he helped in the office, licked stamps, carried mail and learned how cars were made.

At the age of 12, Edsel had his own Model N Runabout. His imagination and styling ability were not satisfied with the "ugly-duckling" lines of the early cars. In these pioneer days of the "horseless carriage," he started out to civilize the automobile. He had an ideal of comfort, grace and beauty, which he expressed in a series of personally designed cars. One of these became the famous Model T Torpedo Runabout.

Edsel's interest in automobiles was more than a youthful wish to be different. In 1912, when he completed his work at the Detroit University School, he decided against college and joined the company where he could learn more about automobile manufacturing as an apprentice.

Early Career

By 1915, Edsel had become a businessman and automobile manufacturer. From the beginning, he assumed responsibility for the business side of the company: sales, purchasing, advertising and the numerous details of the daily routine. His father was free to concentrate on engineering and manufacture.

Ford Motor Company expanded enormously in a few short years, and yet demand far outreached supply. Henry Ford wished to continue expanding the company's facilities, but other stockholders insisted on immediate profits at the expense of expansion. When the courts decided against Henry Ford, he resigned as president of the company, vowing he would form another company with his son and produce a car that would outshine the Model T. In this atmosphere it was Edsel, newly elected president of the company on January 1, 1919, who found a solution. He began negotiations for the purchase of outstanding minority stocks and by July, Ford Motor Company had become the sole property of the Ford family. Plans for expansion went forward rapidly.

Edsel brought a fine organizational talent to his new position of responsibility.. The commercial side of the company was Edsel's domain. The overseas operations were of special interest to him, and he worked to expand Ford facilities in foreign locations. He encouraged and supervised Ford participation in public events such as the World Fairs of the '30s. He constantly emphasized quality and service as the prime factors in Ford sales. In business and administration, it was Edsel who held the company together behind the scenes.

A Vision of Beauty

Successful though he was as an executive, Edsel's real contribution was not in the daily routine of making and selling. He brought something new to the automobile industry—a belief that an automobile could be beautiful as well as useful. His principal interest was in the styling of cars to carry out this ideal.

When the Fords purchased Lincoln Motor Company in 1922, Edsel finally had the opportunity to make design an active force within the company.

Lincoln and Design

With the purchase of Lincoln, Edsel's first concern was for an improvement in the Lincoln style. Edsel commissioned noted body designers from all over the country, including Brunn, LeBaron, Dietrich, Judkins and Derham. Each car was a masterpiece of beauty, yet planned for quantity production. The result was an era of the most distinctive and beautiful automobiles in automotive history.

Edsel’s greatest contribution to styling might have been the Lincoln-Continental he designed that was sold prior to and immediately after World War II. Although only a few more than 5,000 were built, those still on the road today are in great demand because of their classic styling.

Edsel's influence did not end with the Lincoln. In the mid-Twenties, he pushed for an improvement to the Model T’s styling. Changes in 1923 and 1925 gave Model T curved surfaces and smoother lines. These changes resulted in increased orders, and Henry Ford was forced to recognize the effect of the styling changes. As a result, he finally allowed colors on the Model T, giving up his famous orders that "You can have any color, as long as it's black."

Beyond Vehicle Styling

Although his interest in engineering was limited, Edsel Ford has been credited with the installation of hydraulic brakes on Ford cars and with interesting his father in building a six-cylinder engine to sell with the V-8. He also brought about the development of safety glass, after a friend suffered severe cuts in an accident in 1926.

Edsel’s Important Marketing Insights

It was Edsel who recognized that there was a large field of prospects among the middle class, for whom “pride, vanity, a desire for something more impressive enter very strongly into the sale." His ability to recognize the public's inherent desire to purchase "something more impressive" motivated his push for a medium-priced car. As a result of his efforts, the Lincoln-Zephyr was added to the Lincoln line in 1935.

He further recognized that the lower area of the medium-price market, the area which would benefit most by the shift to higher-priced cars, was untapped by Ford Motor Company. The competitive potential of the company could not be maintained without active entry into this price class and, accordingly, the Mercury was launched in October 1938.

Aviation and World War II

Edsel Ford purchased the Stout Metal Aircraft Company to produce the famous Ford Tri-Motor plane. He later mobilized engineers and technicians to develop a conveyor system for mass production of interchangeable-part bombers in World War II.

Sadly, the pressures of World War II took much of Edsel Ford's strength. With his death on May 26, 1943, Ford Motor Company lost a true leader, the man whose vision and energy had held the company firm.

Edsel Ford’s greatest contribution to the automotive industry was his ability to combine the artistry of custom design with the functional requirements of mass production. This concept sparked the styling revolution of the 1950's. He knew that an important goal of automobile making was the pleasure of the owner, and to this end he insisted on comfort, service, quality and beauty.

Source: Ford

Lincoln Town Car

2011-10-03T07:52:00.000-07:00

1998–2002 Lincoln Town Car Signature Series

The Lincoln Town Car is a full-size luxury sedan that was sold by the upscale Lincoln division of Ford Motor Company; it was produced from 1981 to 2011. The Town Car nameplate was first introduced in 1959 Continental Mark IV lineup as a top-of-the-line 4-door sedan; the nameplate became a permanent part of the Continental lineup in 1969, denoting its highest-trim interior package. In 1981, the Town Car became a stand-alone model in the Lincoln product line, also serving as the flagship for the Lincoln brand as well as for Ford Motor Company. The Town Car features a V8 engine, body-on-frame design, rear-wheel drive and large exterior and interior dimensions. Its large dimensions make it the largest car in production in North America. From 1997 to 2011, the Town Car was the longest car built in the Western hemisphere, measuring nearly 18 feet (5.49 m) in length for a standard Town Car and 18.5 feet (5.64 m) for an L Edition.

In spite of declining sales, it remains one of the best selling American luxury cars; it is the United States' and Canada's most used limousine and chauffeured car. Since 2003, it has been available featuring ballistic protection, adding nearly $100,000 to the base price. Consumer Guide cites the vehicle's strengths as comfort, materials, ride quality, and 'braking short and stable for a heavyweight"; with weaknesses mentioned in acceleration and handling. The Town Car is one of the safest cars available on the North American market.

In 2006, Ford considered ending production of Lincoln's largest model after the planned closing of the Wixom Assembly Plant in Wixom, Michigan, in 2007. Ford ultimately decided to keep the model and move assembly to the St. Thomas Assembly Plant in Ontario, Canada, where the Ford Crown Victoria and Mercury Grand Marquis, which also use the Ford Panther platform, were assembled. The Town Car's manufacture resumed at its new location in late 2007. The first Town Car assembled outside of the United States, was manufactured in Canada on January 10, 2008.

Overview

Detail of vinyl roof styling (1978 coupe)

In English, "Town Car" is a literal translation of the French term "Sedan de Ville", a nameplate introduced by Cadillac in 1956. Both names refer to a classic style of limousine popular in the 1920's which had an open chauffeur's compartment in the front. While the Cadillac was a styled as a four-door hardtop, Lincoln made its modern models visually suggest their older namesakes. Many examples from the 1970's and 1980's had a vinyl roof style that swept down the center pillar as part of a raised molding, complete with opera lamps, suggesting a partition between front and rear seats while no vinyl was applied to the front section of the roof over the driver. Other models had a full-length vinyl roof.

The Town Car name first appeared in the Lincoln line in 1922, on a custom-built Lincoln made for Henry Ford. The name reappeared in 1959, on a special limousine-like version of the Lincoln Continental Mark IV; it was available only in black and was identifiable by a unique padded vinyl top, a rarity at that time. After 1959, the Town Car name went dormant for 10 years, reemerging as an interior option package for the 1969 Lincoln Continental. It next appeared as a trim option in 1970 ("Continental's Town Car Interior option", to quote from the 1970 deluxe catalog), and thereafter continued through 1980 as the top-line trim option package for the Lincoln Continental. Again, the Town Car trim featured an extra plush interior (Media velour cloth) along with more standard equipment. The Town Car badge has always been applied to sedans, but from 1973 to 1981, there was a similar option for coupes called the Lincoln Continental Town Coupe.

In 1981, the Town Car became a separate model from the Continental in preparation for further downsizing of the latter; aside from the closely related Continental Mark VI, it became the last full-size Lincoln in the lineup. Since its introduction, there have been three generations of the Town Car, introduced in 1981, 1990, and 1998. Each of these received a substantial refresh approximately halfway through its production cycle, in 1985, 1995, and 2003.

First generation

(1981–1989)First generation 1985–1987 Lincoln Town Car

Lincoln Town Coupe (1980-1981)

Production 1980–1989

Assembly United States: Wixom, Michigan (Wixom Assembly Plant)

Body style
4-door sedan
2-door sedan

Engine
4.9 L (302 cu in)
5.0L Windsor V8

Transmission
4-speed AOD automatic

Wheelbase 117.3 in (2,979 mm)

Length 219.2 in (5,568 mm)

Width 78.1 in (1,984 mm)

Height 55.9 in (1,420 mm)

Curb weight 2-door: 3,993 pounds (1,811 kg)[10]

4-door: 4,006–4,120 pounds (1,817–1,869 kg)

Related
Lincoln Continental Mark VI
Mercury Grand Marquis
Ford LTD Crown Victoria

After lagging behind Cadillac and Chrysler, Lincoln became the final American manufacturer to downsize their full-size cars in 1980. The 1980 Continental shared the Panther platform with full-size counterparts from Ford and Mercury, which adopted it for the 1979 model year. In comparison to the 1979 Continental, the 1980 model shed approximately 900 pounds, an inch in width, fourteen inches in length, and ten inches in wheelbase; surprisingly, the redesign did lead to an increase in trunk space. As the 1970s Lincolns had sold well towards the end of their production run, much of its styling was carried onto the Panther platform, including its blade-like fenders, fake vent windows, and the Rolls-Royce grille shape. In contrast to 1970's models, most models wore exposed headlights, with the exception being the Mark VI models.

The downsizing of the Continental marked the beginning of an expansion of the Lincoln lineup. As the division had relied nearly entirely on full-size cars, Lincoln split the Continental and the Town Car in 1981 into separate models. The Town Car remained the traditional full-size Lincoln, while the Continental became a mid-size car to replace the slow-selling Versailles. When the Mark Series was redesigned in 1984, it too was redesigned; instead of a landyacht, it became one of the most advanced cars ever sold by Ford Motor Company.

From 1980-1983, the script "TOWN CAR" appeared above the headlights; this script was removed for the 1984 model year. A leather-grained vinyl full-roof covering with center pillar coach lamps was standard on base Town Car, while the padded vinyl coach roof (covering only the rear half of the roof) with a frenched (smaller) rear window opening was included on Signature Series and Cartier models (and optional on base Town Car). A cloth (Canvas) roof—re-creating the look of a convertible—was optional on all except Cartier. Inside, Signature Series and Cartier models featured 6-way power seats (and manual seatback recliners) for the driver and front passenger. All models now featured a 50/50 split front bench seat, replacing the traditional full-width bench seat.

Features

The 1981 Town Car featured many advanced luxury options for its time. An optional full-function trip computer with digital displays showed the driver "miles to empty" and (based on driver input) an "estimated time of arrival", among other features. Another new feature, the keypad entry system, allowed access to the vehicle via a factory-programmed (or self-programmed alternate) five digit combination. From the keypad, the driver could lock all four doors, or after entering the code, unlock the vehicle's doors or open the trunk lid. With this system being linked only to the vehicle, rather than a satellite, the need for drivers to share their identity with an operator in a potentially unsecure environment was not required. This popular feature is still in use on many Lincoln, Mercury and Ford vehicles.

1985 Facelift

1986 Lincoln Town Car

1988 Lincoln Town Car

1989 Lincoln Town Car

For 1985, the Town Car received minor design updates. Like previous years, the scheme included a reflector running in between both taillights above the bumper mounted license plate - a design feature kept for the second generation 1990–1997 Town Car. But now, a single, wide reverse lamp was mounted in the center of the reflector panel (the lamps moved up from the previous bumper location). All four corners of the vehicle were slightly rounded, and the new, narrower bumpers were flush mounted with the sides of Town Car. Inside, the 1985 dashboard used satin black trim on the lower dashboard fascia and a slightly revised steering wheel with a padded center panel including a horn button—the previous year had a hard plastic center piece, with the horn button located at the end of the turn signal stalk. The large wood-tone applique used on each door panel through 1984 was replaced by an insert matching the seat upholstery.

In 1985, Cadillac DeVille and Fleetwood were both downsized, the former converted to front-wheel drive. Lincoln, however, continued to field the Town Car as a traditional-sized luxury car. In response to the downsized Cadillacs, Lincoln began running a series of ads in late 1985 titled "The Valet" which depicted parking attendants having trouble distinguishing Cadillacs from lesser Buicks, Oldsmobiles, Pontiacs, and even Chevrolets, with the question "Is that a Cadillac?" answered by the response "No, it's an Oldsmobile (or Buick, Chevy, etc.)." At the end the owner of a Lincoln would appear with the line "The Lincoln Town Car please." The commercial saw the emergence of the new advertising line, "Lincoln. What a Luxury Car Should Be." which was used into the 1990s.[13] The mildy-revamped 1985 Town Car sold well in comparison to the newly re-styled GM vehicles that not only all looked like each other, but also too similar to lesser GM models. While the Town Car retained its traditional layout and large size, fuel prices dropped to a contemporary new low at the time, and operating economy became less of a concern to buyers than a decade prior.

Visually, 1986 was a virtual re-run of the popular 1985 model, but with the addition of the federally-mandated third brake light, mounted on the parcel shelf in the rear window. The dashboard featured more wood-tone accents (in simulated blonde walnut burl), whereas the 1985 model held satin black lower dashboard panels. Tall, four-way articulating front seat head restraints arrived in many Ford vehicles for 1986, including Town Car. The biggest mechanical change for 1986 was the switch to multi-port fuel injection for the 302-cubic-inch engine. This replaced the throttle-body fuel injection system that had been used previously. The MPFI engines are easily identifiable visually, by their cast aluminum upper intake manifolds with horizontal throttle body (vertical throttle plate), replacing the more traditional-looking carburetor-style throttle body with top-mounted air cleaner of previous Town Cars.

1987 was more of the same for Town Car, and changes were minimal. The top-notch Cartier model - which was previously only available in two-tone arctic white and platinum silver, changed to dual shades of platinum (a metallic beige), along with a new interior color in a revamped sew-style, with a sandy beige color ("Titanium") replacing the former white and gray upholstery. Also new was the available JBL single-slot CD Player.

A very minor facelift occurred for the 1988 model year, which saw an early release in the spring of 1987. Town Car now included a wide brushed metal panel on the rear of the vehicle just below the trunk lid opening. The reverse lamps, previously located in the center, now moved to the outer edges of the reflector panel. On the front end of the vehicle, Lincoln returned to the waterfall grille versus a crosshatch design from 1985-1987. Inside, the standard dashboard held a new cluster featuring round gauges set within the square bezels. The burled walnut wood-tone trim was replaced by American walnut applique, and the horn pad changed slightly with more detailed plastic trim.

For 1989, Town Car's grille featured satin black paint on the sides of the segmented grille blades (similar to Mark VII), and now included the "LINCOLN" logo (in a larger, more contemporary font), on the grille itself - down from the header panel above the headlight. Parking lamps were changed from clear to amber, and the background of the Lincoln medallions in between the headlamps was changed from clear to black. In back, the brushed metal panel above the center reflector held a series of fine horizontal pinstripes, and the new "LINCOLN" logo and "Town Car" script emblems moved up from above the tail-light panel (where they had been since 1988), back onto the trunk lid itself. The standard vinyl roof on the base model featured a smaller, more formal "frenched" rear window this year, and did away with the exposed trim surrounding the glass. Large, chrome Lincoln "star" emblems were embedded onto the opera window glass on base and Signature models.

Powertrain

The introduction of the Panther platform Town Car in 1980 was also the first year without the 400 cu in (6.6 L) V8, initially optional in 1977 (standard in California) then standard in 1978 (460 CID optional). The 460 cu in (7.5 L) V8 engine was last available in the 1978 model year. These were replaced with the smaller 4.9 L (302 cu in) V8 (throttle body fuel injection, replaced by Port Fuel Injection in 1986 through the 1989 model year). This engine was marketed as a "5.0" model. For the 1980 model year only, an optional 5.8 L (351 cu in) V8 was available. The transmission also changed to a 4-speed automatic with overdrive. All Town Cars from 1980-1989 featured an optional trailer towing package which included: dual exhausts, a shorter-ratio limited slip differential and an improved cooling package for the engine as well as transmission.

Second generation (1990–1997)

Second generation

1990–1992 Lincoln Town Car

Production 1989–1997

Assembly Wixom, Michigan, USA

Body style 4-door sedan

Engine

1990: 4.9 L (302 cu in) 5.0L Windsor V8

1991-1997: 4.6 L (281 cu in) Modular SOHC V8

Transmission

4-speed AOD automatic 90 - 92
4-speed AOD-E automatic 92 - 95
4-speed 4R70W automatic 95 - 97

Wheelbase 117.4 in (2,982 mm)

Length
1990–94: 218.9 in (5,560 mm)
1995–97: 219.0 in (5,563 mm)

Width

1990–91: 78.1 in (1,984 mm)

1992–94: 76.9 in (1,953 mm)

1995–97: 76.7 in (1,948 mm)

Height

1990–94: 56.7 in (1,440 mm)

1995–97: 56. in (1,422 mm)

Curb weight 3,935–4,103 pounds (1,785–1,861 kg)

Related
Mercury Grand Marquis
Ford Crown Victoria

1993–1994 Lincoln Town Car

After ten years on the market (nine of them as the Town Car) relatively unchanged, Lincoln redesigned the Town Car inside and out for the 1990 model year. While the Panther platform was retained, along with the powertrain, every body panel on the outside was changed; the angular design seen since 1970 was abandoned. The front half of the Town Car echoed that of the Mark VII and the 1988 Continental, with the Rolls-Royce grille given a far more aerodynamic shape and the exposed halogen headlamps replaced with a wraparound composite design. Other sheet metal gave Town Car a decidedly contemporary look, while styling cues like those of the trunklid and taillights, remained somewhat similar to the 1980's model. The revised interior featured a new dashboard, seats, and door panels. That year, it was also named as Motor Trend's Car of the Year.

Town Car was still available in three trim levels: Base (re-named "Executive" in 1991), Signature, and Cartier—in increasing order of price and appointment of features. Cartier was now available in several interior and exterior colors (up until now, it had only been available in a single paint scheme every year).

The second generation Town Car was an overwhelming sales success and became one of America's best selling full-size luxury sedans. During the late 1980's and early 1990s, Town Car sales regularly exceeded 100,000 units with 120,121 Town Cars being sold in 1994 alone.

Features and Changes

Introduced in 1990 were several new options that had never been available before on Town Car. A two-position driver's memory seat was an optional on Signature (standard on Cartier). Electric seatback recliners with power inflatable lumbar support were available as well. The Electrochromic Dimming Mirror was also a carryover option from the 1989 Town Car, but now wider than before. A revised digital instrument cluster (standard on Signature and Cartier) featured a more advanced message center, but lost the "estimated time of arrival" feature (it returned in 1995).

Many advanced safety features were now featured on Town Car. For 1990, dual air bags became standard. However, problems with sourcing the passenger air bag module caused many cars to be delivered without the passenger side module. A credit, shown on the window sticker, was issued for the missing component. Upon request from an owner, the credit would be taken back and the passenger side airbag module would be installed. For the first time since 1979, 4-wheel disc brakes were standard on the Town Car; ABS was optional. Rear air suspension was added as standard equipment. 1991saw the introduction of Ford's new Modular V8, a 4.6L SOHC design replacing the Ford 302 Windsor, as well as new lightweight front and rear bumpers. 1992 saw the standardization of ABS braking along with dual airbags.

The 1993 model year saw a minor facelift on the front grille, and a new checkerboard pattern to the tail lamps. An electronic automatic temperature control (EATC) unit with digital display replaced the analog unit from the previous year. The electronic instrument cluster was now standard on all three models, while the automatic headlamp dimmer (part of the headlamp convenience group) was discontinued, the autolamp system became standard. An orange-toned walnut applique graced the dashboard and door panels. In 1994, 20 HP was added to the engine, bringing the total to 210 hp (157 kW). The torque was increased as well, by ten, bringing the total to 270 pound-feet (37 kg·m) of torque. As a result, the highway mileage decreased by one, bringing that to 18 mpg-US (13 L/100 km; 22 mpg-imp) city and 25 mpg-US (9.4 L/100 km; 30 mpg-imp) highway.

1995 Redesign

1995–1997 Lincoln Town Car

The Town Car underwent a minor exterior facelift for the 1995 model year. Changes to the exterior included smaller, clear headlights as well as additional running lights in the rear. Larger door mirrors were body-colored (formerly chrome), and were moved slightly forward on the door itself. Updated bumpers front and rear, new body side moldings, and the deletion of the small fixed window in the rear doors completed the exterior changes. The antenna was removed from the outside of the car and integrated into the rear window.

The interior was extensively revamped. Town Car received a new dashboard, seats and interior door panels. The angular interior shapes from the 1990 to 1994 model's interior were replaced by a curved dashboard that flowed into the front door panels, in fashion with the so-called "organic" design. 1995 also saw the introduction of a new steering wheel, which was used in all Panther-based sedans from 1998 to 2004. In addition to the cruise control buttons, which had been steering wheel mounted since the 1970s, some models (Signature and Cartier) featured remote audio and climate control buttons as well.

Also introduced in 1995 was a new digital dash layout (replacing the unit used since 1993) that featured a more italicized look to the readouts, while the exterior temperature readout moved from the dash cluster to the climate control panel. A "miles to go" trip computer feature was added. Dual power recliners with lumbar support—as well as a three-position driver's seat and mirror memory function became standard (formerly optional) on Signature Series which could be assigned to the keyless entry remotes as well as the up to four personal keyless entry codes. Heated seats were a new option, and door panel switches now featured (slight) illumination from a lamp located below the interior door handle. Power door lock switches were back-lit, and were mounted high up on the driver and passenger door panels. The fuel door release (previously mounted in the center dash panel) and trunk release button moved from inside the glove compartment to the lower driver's side door panel. Similar to the previous year, Signature and Cartier models featured dual clamshell storage armrests up front with cassette storage, coin holder, and an optional Cell phone. The 1997 Cartier models held dual cup holders in the rear center armrest.

With the demise of the Cadillac Fleetwood Brougham after 1996, the Town Car became the last of its kind: the last American full-size, rear-wheel drive luxury car. The demise of the Fleetwood also made the Town Car the largest mass-produced car available in North America.

Third generation (1998–2011)Third generation

1998–2002 Lincoln Town Car Cartier

Production 1997–2011

Assembly
Wixom, Michigan, USA (1998–2007)
St. Thomas, Ontario, Canada (2008–2011)

Body style 4-door sedan

Engine 4.6 L Modular SOHC V8

Transmission
4-speed 4R70W automatic
4-speed 4R75W automatic

Wheelbase Town Car:
117.7 in (2,990 mm)

Town Car L:
123.7 in (3,142 mm)

Length 1998-2002
Town Car: 215.3 in (5,469 mm)
2003-2011 Town Car: 215.4 in (5,471 mm)
1999-2002 Town Car L: 221.3 in (5,621 mm)
2003-2011 Town Car L: 221.4 in (5,624 mm)

Width
1998–2002: 78.2 in (1,986 mm)
2003–2011: 78.5 in (1,994 mm)

Height
1998–2002: 58.0 in (1,473 mm)
2003–08 Town Car: 58.6 in (1,488 mm)
2003–08 Town Car L: 58.7 in (1,491 mm)
2009–2011 Town Car: 59.0 in (1,499 mm)
2009–2011 Town Car L: 59.1 in (1,501 mm)

Curb weight
Town Car: 4,006–4,369 pounds (1,817–1,982 kg)
Town Car L: 4,360–4,517 pounds (1,978–2,049 kg)

Related
Mercury Grand Marquis
Mercury Marauder
Ford Crown Victoria

For the 1998 model year, Ford gave its full-size cars for all three divisions major redesigns, with the Town Car receiving the most attention. The straight-lined body seen for eight years gave way to a curved design scheme with a downwards sloping trunk lid, and cat's-eye headlights. The C-pillar opera windows and Rolls-Royce grille seen since the 1970s were left off, as was the hood ornament. In the front, the new Town Car wore a waterfall grille much like the Navigator that was introduced alongside it for 1998. While it lost three inches in overall length, the new Town Car was two inches wider, one inch taller, with a slightly longer wheelbase as well.

1998-2002 door panel

The interior received major changes as well. Door and instrument panels as well as the radio face, switches and controls were redone. Additional wood trim was added to the newly designed dashboard and the door panels. The power seat recliner and lumbar controls were moved to the door panels. Lincoln emblems remained on the door panels and the seatbacks, as well as the rear tail lights, making the 1998-2002 models the last Town Cars with that feature. The Cartier model also received a 220 hp (164 kW) version of the Modular V8.

Seat-mounted combination head and torso side airbags became standard during the 1999 model model year. In late 2000, a Touring Edition was added to the Town Car lineup; it featured a more powerful 235 hp (175 kW) version of the Town Car's Modular V8 engine, dual exhaust pipes and unique 16 inch alloy wheels with larger tires.

According to Consumer Guide the car scores above average in the premium luxury segment for comfort, room and materials but scores below average for acceleration, steering and overall technical performance. Otherwise, the Town Car has frequently received negative reviews with the car being considered "out of date." The Town Car is, however, still considered one of the best chauffeured vehicles as it receives high marks for being among the most comfortable, quiet riding and roomiest luxury cars available. Forbes car writer Jerry Flint attributes the Town Car's falling sales since the 1998 redesign to the reduction in length and smaller trunk.

1998-2002 stretch limousine

Town Car L

A factory option available to individual owners of Town Cars since 2001 has been a version of the Town Car with an extra six inches (152 mm) of rear seat legroom, designated as the "L" or "long" version. This model provides extra amenities for rear-seat passengers, including a unique rear-seat switch that allows the front-passenger seat to be moved forward as desired for extra room in the rear.

2003–2011

2003–2011 Lincoln Town Car

In 2003, coinciding with a major update of the Ford Panther platform, Lincoln facelifted the Town Car inside and out. The front and rear sheet metal (hood, front fenders, trunk lid, and rear fenders) as well as the bumpers were squared off, with a new grille and headlights (in the style of the Lincoln LS) added to the front end. After 5 years without one, the Town Car gained back its hood ornament; however, the Lincoln emblems were removed from the taillights. Suspension changes necessitated the use of wheels with a high positive offset (flush-spoke). To improve its handling, a speed-sensitive rack-and-pinion steering system was added to the Town Car. Also new was a power trunk lid that opens and closes at the touch of the driver's door mounted button or through the keyless remote; this was known as "Trunk at a Touch." The Modular V8 now produced 239 hp (178 kW),

On the inside, the seats were replaced with a new design (with larger head restraints) and the dashboard received satin metal in addition to the standard woodgrain. The radio face, including the climate controls, received an update with the addition of an analog clock. A DVD-based satellite navigation system designed by Pioneer became available late in the 2003 model year; it was later paired with THX sound processing. The factory-equipped rear ultrasonic park assist (with two rear bumper mounted sensors) became standard on all except the Executive Series.

The 2003 redesign would turn out to be the last for the Town Car; all changes since then have consisted of minor yearly changes. In 2005, the steering wheel was updated. For 2006, the instrument panel received was updated with the addition of a tachometer (becoming one of the last American cars to adopt the feature). On the exterior, the parking sensors became hidden.

For 2008, many previous options were included in the base price. The Town Car was available in two models: the Signature and the extended-wheelbase Town Car Signature L. As Town Car production began to ramp down, many optional features were standardized in an effort to use up existing stock, ease assembly line procedures, and position Town Car as a better value against the competition. Leather upholstery had been standard since 1998, and the 6-disc CD changer was included in the base price. The only four remaining options were HID (High-Intensity Discharge) headlamps, chrome-finish 18-spoke wheels (in place of the standard machine-finished 10-spoke wheels), a white-wall tire option, and the trunk organizer—a 3-bin storage tray underneath a hard carpeted cover for Town Car's deep center trunk well (which allows the Town Car to have a temporary flat, albeit considerably shallower, loading floor).

The 2009 Town Car was available only in Signature trim, with a choice of two wheelbases. The four options from 2008 continued for 2009, in both price and availability.

For 2010, the Town Car is again available in two forms — Signature Limited and the extended wheelbase Signature L. The few remaining options include High-Intensity Discharge headlamps, Trunk organizer, and a set of four 17" 18-spoke chromed aluminum wheels. The whitewall tire option was discontinued, but Daytime Running Lamps became available. Also available only on Signature Limited was the Continental Edition package. This is somewhat ironic, as the Town Car was originally the upscale edition of the Panther-based Lincoln Continental. The package adds Continental badging, chrome 17" wheels, and chrome B-pillar accents to the car's exterior, while inside, the Continental name is embroidered on the front seats and front floor mats.

Of interesting note, some time after 2003, the Executive (and Executive L) became equipped with single exhaust while the Signature Series and Signature L were equipped with dual exhaust. This created 224 bhp for the fleet-based Executive, while the Signature got 239 bhp. Most coach builders convert the Executive's single exhaust into a dual exhaust setup when building a limousine, to give the vehicle some added power on top of having to stretch the exhaust to accommodate the stretched frame.

Trim Changes

2003 marked the last year of "Cartier" trim package (introduced in 1981); beginning with the 2004 model year, the top-of-the-line Town Car was instead designated as the "Ultimate". The Touring edition (on the Signature model only) was dropped.

2003 also saw the mid-year intro of the "Limited", based upon the Signature. The Limited had special perforated seats, unique wheels, and a black grill with chrome surround moulding. All options were made standard on the Limited, except for whitewall tires & the Navigation System. The Limited also introduced a new color (Code DV) "Mineral Green Metallic", which is still on the 2009 Color Chart. 2007 also marked the last year of the DVD-based satellite navigation system and THX sound processing system that went with it. 1,131 LIMITED(s) were manufactured.

Discontinuation

After 2007, the Town Car was discontinued for retail sale in Canada, becoming exclusively available for fleet and livery sales; it also became the final year of Town Car production in Wixom, Michigan. Ford was reported to be considering discontinuing the model at this point, a proposal that shocked observers. Industry observer George Peterson said "It blows everybody’s mind that they are dropping the Town Car. Just think what Ford could do if they actually invested in a re-skin of Crown Victoria, Grand Marquis and Town Car." During 2008, production was shifted to St. Thomas Assembly in Canada, consolidating its production with the Mercury Grand Marquis and Ford Crown Victoria.

Ford promised availability of the Town Car through the 2011 model year for the limousine and livery markets. Lincoln intends to discontinue production of the Town Car in August of 2011 and is replacing it in livery markets with a limousine variant of the MKT. The MKT limousine should be available in the second quarter of 2012 and will be called "MKT Town Car."

On January 4, 2011, the Town Car became the last Panther-platform variant available for retail sale as the final Mercury Grand Marquis was produced (the last Mercury-brand vehicle); the Ford Crown Victoria has not been produced for retail sale since the end of the 2007 model year.

The last Town Car rolled off the assembly line on August 29, 2011.

Safety Concerns

Fuel Tank

While the car has been highly rated for safety, there was some controversy and lawsuits in the 1990's and 2000's over Ford Crown Victoria (and its Mercury & Lincoln counterparts) gas tank leaks after certain types of high speed impacts, specifically when being hit in the rear end at high speeds. These impacts did cause fuel tank failures in the Crown Victoria. The leaking fuel in combination with friction between the vehicle and the road was found to be the cause of fires.

The reports that the cars were more prone to fires during a rear collision was a simple combination of three things. First, most law enforcement agencies rely heavily on the Crown Victoria as their primary vehicle, meaning that any police-related auto accident is very likely to involve a Crown Victoria. Second, the accidents occurred as the result of the officers intentionally parking their vehicles close to active traffic to shield a stopped motorist - something most civilians would never do. Third, the impacting vehicle was often traveling at, or above, the posted legal limit (70-75 mph in most jurisdictions).

The condition was exacerbated by police equipment installers drilling over the package tray in the luggage compartment. Due to the gas tank's orientation, drilling through the package tray may result in drilling into the gas tank. Installers also used screws set directly into the bulkhead and facing the fuel tank. In the event of a high-energy collision, these screws could be forced into the tank, both rupturing the tank and possibly acting as a spark source. Long bolts for mounting heavier equipment were also directly suspect. The manufacturer provided an aftermarket shield to help prevent these items from puncturing the tank during impact. Further, many investigations, both performed by federal/state agencies, and the police department themselves, have found that removable items in the trunk were improperly stowed. These items became tank-piercing projectiles during the rear-collision scenarios. Ford's second solution came in the form of a recall kit including patterns to mark unsafe areas (to drill) in the luggage compartment. Also included were rubberized kevlar and hard ballistic nylon shields for the differential cover lower shock bolts. They also included a kevlar-based trunk liner. Ford used similar kits on early-1980's model passenger vehicles. For 2005 and newer models, Ford offers an optional on-board fire-suppression system for the Crown Victoria Police Interceptor units. The system itself is integrated with the anti-lock braking system as part of the activation, and can be activated manually. However, Ford does cite several system limitations regarding fuel loss and impact speeds.

Despite numerous court cases charging Ford with partial liability for fires caused in accidents, the company has never been found liable in a Crown Victoria accident.

Notably, only the Ford Crown Victoria and new Ford police car have been certified for high speed rear impact collisions, adding credibility to Ford's statement that fiery crashes are a result of extreme and unfortunate situations.

Accelerator

On 2004 models, the accelerator and brake pedals are close together. This has been blamed for accidents caused by driver error where the driver presses the accelerator instead of the brake. On NHTSA safety complaints, some drivers reported that their foot was not on the accelerator at all, and the car still lurched forward. Despite numerous complaint submissions, NHTSA has not issued a safety recall.

Door Latches

On 2003 and 2004 models, the front door latch handles are secured with plastic only and may break and become disengaged from the internal mechanism, preventing the door from opening except by operating the external door handle. Previously, the repair required replacing the entire door trim panel (about $950 for the part alone). The trim panel is no longer stocked, making it impossible to repair the door handle, rendering the car unsafe due to emergency exit concerns. A similar problem in Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigators resulted in a recall, but thus far, NHTSA has not issued a recall for the Town Car.

Intake manifold defect

Model years 1996 through 2001, which use an all-composite intake manifold, are subject to coolant leaks in the component. Late in 2005 Ford settled a class action lawsuit. See Intake Manifold Defect section of the Ford Modular engine article for details.

Trim levels

Signature Series Identification Label

In 1981 the Town Car was introduced in three trim levels, the base Executive Series, the mid-range Signature Series, and the top-of-the-line Cartier. The trim levels remained unchanged until 2003, when the Executive Series and Cartier names were dropped. The Signature Series did not any longer represent the mid-range model; rather it replaced the Executive Series with Ultimate designation being used for the mid-range and top model, which was formerly called the Cartier. In 2005, however, the lineup was changed again. For 2005 only, the Ultimate designation was dropped, with only the Signature Series designation being used for all three trim levels. In 2006, Lincoln introduced the Designer Series as an additional trim-level to fit in between the mid-range Signature Limited Series and the top Signature L Series.

Executive (1991–2003)

The Executive Series was the basic trim level and thus the most affordable trim level on the Lincoln Town Car from 1991 through 2003. After 2004, the Executive Series designation continued on, but for fleet vehicles only.

Signature (1981–2011)

The Signature Series was the mid-level trim and was also the most popular trim level from 1981 through 2003. In 2004 the trim levels were renamed, and the Signature Series was now used to describe the basic trim level and Ultimate was now used to describe the mid-level trim. In 2005 the Ultimate was dropped and all trim levels were changed to a version of Signature. The basic trim level for 2005 was called Signature, the mid trim level was called Signature Limited and the top-of-line trim-level was called Signature L. The trim level designations were revised again for the 2006 model year. For 2006 a trim level called the Designer Series was added between the Signature Limited and top-of-line Signature L. By 2010, with only two models remaining, the Signature Limited became the base model, while the Signature L badge was used for the extended-wheelbase model.

Cartier (1981–2003)

Cartier was used on the top-of-line Town Car from 1981 through 2003. The Cartier also featured the designer's logo stitched onto the seats in place of the Lincoln star. Golden Lincoln emblems on the tail-lights also became a staplemark on the Cartier Edition on 1998 through 2002 models.

Gucci (1989)

According to Edmund's pricing guides for 1989, the Town Car was to be available as a Gucci Edition including a standard Carriage Roof (convertible-look). This was apparently cancelled as there was instead a "Special Edition" of the Town Car in 1989 which had a unique edition of the Carriage Roof option, with an embedded opera light extending the length of the "b-pillar", possibly replacing the proposed Gucci model.

Limited (2003)

"Limited" was based upon a Signature Limited, but was also a $2,125.00 option on a Signature Premium; on a standard Signature, it cost $2,730.00. It featured a unique black grille bars within the normal chrome surround. It also had a perforated strip on the bottom seats, Limited carpet mats, special seat piping, Alpine Stereo with CD and Audiophile speakers, unique 14-spoke wheels with painted "pockets" as well as a unique exterior paint color, "Light Tundra Metallic" ~ actually a very light silver-green metallic. In total, 1,131 were produced.

Ultimate (2004)

Ultimate was only used on the 2004 Town Car. Ultimate designation replaced Signature for 2004 model year and was used for the top-of-line Lincoln.

L Edition (2001–2011)

The "L" designation is used on Lincoln Town Cars with extended wheelbases. The L editions offer an additional six inches (152 mm) of rear-seat legroom, as well as remote access audio and climate controls mounted in the rear center armrest. Also included is a two-way travel switch for the front passenger seat base (a feature shared with the extended-wheelbase Jaguar XJ). This L designation is similar to that used on other luxury flagship sedans such as the BMW 7-Series or the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. The L designation was applied to the top-of-line Cartier (2003), Ultimate (2004 only), and Signature (2005 - 2011) Series trim levels. For the 2001-02 versions, the "L" edition can best be identified by a wide, stationary gloss-black panel bearing the Lincoln "star" ornament, mounted forward of the window glass on the elongated rear doors. The "L" version from 2003 and onward features extended-width fixed opera windows.

Designer (2006–2008)

The Designer Series is an upper-middle trim level in between the mid-level Signature Limited and top-of-the-line Signature L. The Designer Series is roughly $1,000 more expensive than the mid-level Signature Limited with a starting MSRP of $45,915. This trim includes two-tone interior accents, a special higher quality leather called Provence leather. The rear seats also include four way adjustable head restraints exclusively on this trim for the standard wheelbase. On the exterior special chromed B pillars and Chrome wheels are included with this package.

Special Editions

Jack Nicklaus

1992 to 1997 saw a special Signature Series sedan come to market: the Jack Nicklaus Signature Series, which featured a green body with a white vinyl top with white leather interior trimmed in green. Another version came with white exterior paint and a conventional roof and a similar white leather interior with green carpets and trim. Most of these editions have ornaments and wording on the exterior trimmed in gold including green and gold "Golden Bear" badges on the front fenders. Options included on the 1992 to 1997 Jack Nicklaus Signature Series included: Memory Seats with Power Lumbar/Recliner, Leather Seats, and Monotone Paint.

Spinnaker Edition

1995 also featured another special Signature Series edition called the Spinnaker Edition which featured tri-coat paint, two-toned leather seats, the Spinnaker logo on the floor mats, and 16-inch spoked aluminum wheels.

Diamond Anniversary

To celebrate Lincoln's 75th anniversary in 1996, the Town Car took on a "Diamond Anniversary" edition. This edition was applied to Signature Series sedans only. Options included a paint strip down the side, leather seats, wood instrument panel trim, window badging, cellular telephone, power moonroof, JBL audio system, auto electrochromatic dimming mirror w/compass, and traction assist.

Continental Edition

Introduced in 2010 is the Continental Edition package; available as an option only on the Signature Limited trim. The package adds Continental badging, chrome 17" wheels and accents to the B-pillars. On the interior, the Continental name is embroidered on the front seats and front floor mats.

Other Versions

Also introduced in 1996 were the Ride Control and Touring Edition packages. Ride Control was only available on Signature and Cartier while Touring Edition was available for all Town Car models. Ride control featured an auxiliary power steering fluid cooler, 16-inch aluminum wheels, 225/60/16 tires, 3.27 axle ratio, 28.5 mm (1.1in) stabilizer bar, as well as revised air springs and shocks. Touring Edition featured (depending on model), a power moonroof, JBL audio system, electrochromic automatic dimming mirror, auxiliary power steering fluid cooler, 16-inch aluminum wheels, 225/60/16 tires, 3.27 axle ratio, 28.5 mm (1.1 in) stabilizer bar, and revised air springs and shocks.[32] Both the Ride Control and Touring Edition packages would last only between 1996 and 1997; however, the Touring Edition package would make a brief comeback during the 2000 model year.

Awards

The Town Car has received several awards and recognitions.

Forbes magazine repeatedly named the Town Car one of the best cars to be chauffeured in along with other, often more expensive flagship sedans, such as the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, BMW 7-Series and Lexus LS. The Town Car Signature L features a rear seat comfort package which not only provides rear seat passengers with audio system and rear compartment climate controls, but also features a control function which allows for the rear seat occupants to move the passenger seat forward, a feature exclusive to few ultra-luxury sedans. In addition to its many amenities, the Signature L also features an unrivaled 46.9 in (1,191 mm) of rear legroom, and 60 in (1,524 mm) of rear shoulder room.

In 1990, upon the introduction of the second generation Town Car, the vehicle was named Motor Trend Car of the Year. However this award was later included by Car and Driver in a list of poorly chosen car of the year award winners.

Source: Wikipedia

More Compacts and Crossovers for Lincoln

2011-09-30T11:40:00.000-07:00

Click Here to read the article.

Source: Internet

Lincoln MKR Concept

2011-09-01T12:37:00.000-07:00

Click Here for video.

Source: Youtube

Lincoln MKR Concept

2011-09-01T12:32:00.000-07:00

Click Here to watch video.

Source: Youtube

2012 Lincoln Continental Concept Art

2011-09-01T12:29:00.000-07:00

Click Here for video.

Source: Youtube

Lincoln Custom 1941

2011-08-02T15:37:00.000-07:00

Built on an extended 138\" wheelbase, 13\" longer than the Zephyr and Continental, Lincoln designated its top of the line 1941 models the Lincoln-Custom series.

Source: PreWarCars

Lincoln Future Vehicles

2011-07-04T11:38:00.001-07:00

Lincoln MKS

2012 Lincoln MKS: After upgrading the MKS with an Ecoboost engine for 2010, the rest of the car is expected to get a slight refresh for 2012.

Lincoln MKT

2013 Lincoln MKT: All-new for 2010, the Lincoln MKT should get a mid cycle refresh in late 2012.

Lincoln MKX

2014 Lincoln MKX: After a reskin for the 2011 model year, the MKX isn't likely to see many changes until a full redesign arrives in 2013.

Lincoln MKZ

2013 Lincoln MKZ: After a recent refresh, the Lincoln MKZ is headed for a full redesign in 2012. It's expected to share a common platform with the Ford Fusion and the European Ford Mondeo.

Lincoln Navigator

2013 Lincoln Navigator: A redesign planned for the 2013 model year is currently on hold. Ford may either delay it further or simply discontinue the Navigator entirely.

Small Crossover

2013 Lincoln Small Crossover: This new addition to the lineup is expected to be a rebadged version of the next-generation Ford Kuga.

Small Sedan

2012 Lincoln Small Sedan: Although not confirmed yet, Lincoln is considering a new small car based on the newest Ford Focus underpinnings. It could arrive as a traditional sedan or show up as a five-door hatchback similar to the Lincoln C concept shown at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show.

Source: Internet

Rare 1950 Lincoln Town Car Tin Toy

2011-06-22T09:42:00.000-07:00

1941 Lincoln Zephyr Ambulance

2011-06-22T09:28:00.001-07:00

Test Your Knowledge Of Automobile History

2011-05-14T13:51:00.000-07:00

Click Here to test your knowledge of kinds of automobiles by looking at their pichttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.giftures. I took the challenge and made 97.

Source: Internet

2011 Lincoln Navigator

2011-04-01T13:03:00.001-07:00

The Basics

There aren't many vehicles on the market like the 2011 Lincoln Navigator; the big, stately luxury SUV excels at carrying a full load of passengers, yet its truck-based underpinnings make it surprisingly deft at towing.

Key Takeaway

The 2011 Lincoln Navigator is large and lavish, in a uniquely American way, though its powertrains are a step behind those of rival truck-based SUV's.

The Lincoln Navigator hasn't changed much in appearance in many years—it's still a big body-on-frame box on wheels, albeit one dressed up with a lot of bling. Along with the Cadillac Escalade it's become iconic among some cultural subsets, and some of the Navigator's styling cues—its huge, chrome grille, for instance, which at once brings to mind 1960's-era station wagons, and more recent full-size pickups—might be horrible and garish to some tastes, stylish and fresh to others. In any case, it's uniquely American. Inside, there's a lot of inspiration from earlier Lincolns, this time with gauges modeled after those found in 1970's and '80's vehicles. There's a retro look, no doubt, but they're very visible and straightforward.

In Navigator and longer-wheelbase Navigator L models, a 310-horsepower, 5.4-liter V-8 engine drives either two or four wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission. Hauling is second nature to the Navigator—the maximum tow rating is 9,100 pounds. The size and 6,200-pound curb weight of the vehicle tax the V-8 engine at times compared to other vehicles in the class. Shifting is slick and easy, though, turning low revs at highway speeds to reduce engine noise. The Navigator handles solidly and stably, but you'll never forget you're in such a big, heavy vehicle. Body roll is what you'd expect from a big, heavy SUV—and expect heavy nosedive and lots of body motion during quick stops, or any change in direction for that matter—but the four-wheel independent suspension helps provide a smooth ride.

Though the Lincoln Navigator is closely related to the Ford Expedition, it's more upscale inside, offering a little more quiet, and a little more comfort. Inside, in fact, the Navigator feels like a true luxury vehicle—the payoff of additional insulation and noise-canceling materials.

Design and function of all the interior's core elements are good. Seating comfort is top-notch in the 2011 Navigator, whether you go for the Navigator or Navigator L. Two models are available, the Navigator and Navigator L; the latter is 14.7 inches longer than the standard model, and some of that length goes into improved third-row access. Cargo space is better in the Navigator L, too.

Materials inside the 2011 Lincoln Navigator are mostly high-quality, though there are a few low points. Premium trappings—the real-wood trim and leather upholstery—feel genuinely premium, but they're let down by bargain-bin trim like hard plastics, chrome-painted plastics, and cheap-feeling switchgear in places. But there are plenty of places to store smaller items, as well as cupholders for all.

The Navigator has an equipment list that keeps with first impressions; its features list delivers exactly what you'd expect in a richly appointed but conservative luxury vehicle—along with a surprisingly up-to-date set of connectivity and convenience features. Power-deployable running boards, to help ease ingress and egress, are standard, and for 2011, a voice-controlled navigation system, HD Radio, Sync connectivity, and Sirius Travel Link information services are now standard. Ford's MyKey system, which allows owners to set limits on top speed and radio volume, is now standard. The SYNC and Sirius Travel Link system offers voice-activated control of climate and navigation systems, plus the ability to search traffic and weather conditions in real time. Other noteworthy features include a rearview camera system, rain-sensing windshield wipers, EasyFuel capless fuel fill, Front Park Assist, and heated second-row seats.

Source: Internet/TheCarConnection

2011 Lincoln MKZ

2011-04-01T13:00:00.001-07:00

The Basics

Since it's shed Volvo, Jaguar, Land Rover and Aston Martin--not to mention Mercury--Ford has been voicing bigger plans for its Lincoln brand. More luxurious cars are on the way, with more distinctive powertrains and even higher technology, we're promised.

Key Takeaway

The 2011 Lincoln MKZ has a foot in both luxury worlds, with buttery leather and wood for traditionalists, and hybrid power with flower petals for the high-minded greens.

In the meantime, Ford has a Lincoln lineup that owes plenty to similar Ford-brand products. The MKZ sedan is the best example of how close today's Lincolns can seem to current Fords, while still delivering about as much differentiation as a Lexus ES 350 does from a Toyota Camry.

The MKZ wears a front end all its own, and it's drama-infused. The wings and ribs contrast deeply with the traditional luxury-car dash and its bands of wood and swaths of Scottish leather. The LCD panel in the center can be a jarring note--but it's also the window to a bundle of electronics that keep drivers in SYNC with music and callers while they're keeping both hands on the wheel.

With its more tidy proportions, the MKZ doesn't have the kind of spread-out space you'll find in a bigger Buick or Chrysler, but the same scale works to its advantage in handling. The MKZ's electric power steering feels almost natural, and its ride quality just firm enough, more so with a Sport package and 18-inch wheels.

Then there's the MKZ Hybrid, which Ford pitches at the same price as the conventionally powered V-6 MKZ. It keeps the 41-mpg city fuel economy of the similar Fusion Hybrid, but instead of rewarding green drivers with leaves, it shows its appreciation for gentler driving with...flowers.

With jazzy style, the luxury goods it needs and a new outlook on what luxury actually means to non-cigar-smoking, non-McMansion-dwelling urbanites, the MKZ Hybrid is a clear marketing win as Lincoln specs out a somewhat opaque future. To our testers, the Hybrid makes eminently better sense than the less imaginative MKZ--at zero cost added.

Source: Internet/TheCarConnection

1955 Lincoln Indianapolis Concept Car

2011-03-01T14:51:00.000-08:00

Source: Internet

Lincoln Town Car Concept

2011-03-01T13:14:00.001-08:00

Source: Internet

New Lincoln Museum

2011-02-01T16:16:00.000-08:00

Lincoln is one of America's truly great marques, but recent years have found it becoming more of an orphan at Ford, to the point where people were doubting its survival. Fortunately Lincoln seems to be rediscovering its identity with at least one new model, the MKZ, showing promise. Perhaps the best indicator that Lincoln has a future is Ford's willingness to invest in its history by supporting the new Lincoln Museum in partnership with the Lincoln Motor Car Foundation. (The Foundation was formed in 1999 by members of various Lincoln owner's clubs and retired Ford Motor Company Executives.)

A new, 20,000 square foot dedicated building is to be constructed on the campus of the Gilmore Car Museum in Hickory Corners, Michigan, a 90 acre park-like setting midway between Chicago and Detroit, also the setting for the Classic Car Club of America Museum, the Tucker Historical Collection and the Pierce-Arrow Museum. "This is a long overdue initiative," said Peter Horbury, Ford Executive Director, Design, The Americas. "Lincoln represents over eighty years of wonderful history and fantastic automobiles. From the early, elegant cars of the 1920's to the pure and simple Continentals of the 1960's, Lincoln has a wonderful story to tell. We look forward to helping the new Lincoln museum become an exciting and educational destination."

[Source: Hemmings eWeekly Newsletter]

Lincoln Zephyr Convention

2011-02-01T16:10:00.000-08:00

One glance at this poster should send you packing to the joint National Convention of the Lincoln Owners Club and the Lincoln-Zephyr Owners Club, which will take place on June 4-8 in (appropriately) Lincoln, New Hampshire. Quite aside from the fact that Lincoln made some of the finest automobiles in America, I'm entranced by the juxtaposition of a Lincoln Zephyr coupe with the famed Zephyr passenger train, in its time a design and technology trendsetter. Lincoln named its new lower-priced model after the transcontinental speed queen and in doing so gave the world a real beauty, with considerable input from Edsel Ford. The convention is taking place in a most scenic location: the Mountain Club on Loon Mountain, in the heart of New Hampshire's beautiful White Mountains. An all-Lincoln car show is scheduled for Friday, June 6. If you're a Lincoln follower contact the Lincoln Owners Club and if you're a Zephyr admirer check the club's Web site.

Source: Internet

The 2011 Lincoln MKX

2011-01-18T06:56:00.000-08:00

The 2011 Lincoln MKX, which is closely related to the 2011 Ford Edge, hasn't been completely redesigned, but almost. Flaunting new sheetmetal, new powertrains, new interiors with better-quality materials, and a new suite of technology branded under the MyFord Touch and MyLincoln Touch umbrella, the new MKX finally appeals to top rivals from European and Japanese luxury brands, as well as Cadillac, with world-class features and interior appointments.

Depending on how you see it, the new, more distinctive Lincoln look is either an eyesore or a breathtaking departure. The twin-wing grille is for sure striking, but those grilles balance out the glass areas nearly perfectly, with good scale. The shape has been smoothed out, too. Inside, the 2011 Lincoln MKX cabin chucks whatever was left of lower-rent shapes and materials in the Ford empire. Subtracting the buttons from swoopy new instrument panel and center stack gave designers the space to lay out winged themes, and the feel and fit of interior materials has been ratcheted up several levels, with choices of metallic trim, light or dark woods. The MKX elevates the business-class aesthetic out of simple wood and leather cliches, and marries it with real haute technology—not an easy task.

The 2011 MKX is fitted with a new 305-horsepower, 3.7-liter V-6 that's shared with the 2011 Ford Mustang. Offered here with a six-speed SelectShift automatic transmission, there's ample performance to knock off a gentleman's B for straight-line performance—in the neighborhood of eight seconds to 60 mph, and a top speed in the 125-mph range. The engine's muted much better here than in the Mustang, of course, thanks to layers of laminated glass and acoustic damping, and it's probably everything a luxury-crossover buyer not seeking Cayenne Turbo-style thrust will want. The MKX now has electric power steering and steers fairly well, and doesn't wander much at all on decent-to-awful turnpike pavement textures. It also grabs its share of country roads with gusto—up to the point any 4000-pound crossover feels unhappy about exactly what you're doing back there.

The cabin of the 2011 Lincoln MKX hasn't been supersized, it sticks more closely to its job detail of being able to carry five adults in comfort than last year's version. The front seats have memory functions and the best driving position is easy to ferret out, with the height of the seat and with standard power tilt/telescoping steering. The rear bench reclines a bit so the tallest colleagues won't get bent out of shape on a lunch run. Cargo space in back is a bit shy of some larger five-passenger crossovers, though the Lincoln's add-ons will dazzle anyone who starts asking impolite questions about overall cubic feet.

MyLincoln Touch is the star of the MKX cabin; it marries Ford's SYNC and its Bluetooth-controlled, voice-activated technology with a pair of LCD screens flanking the speedometer, a big LCD touchscreen in the middle of the dash, and a pair of swipe-touch bars. The dozens of buttons you'd find on another car's audio, navigation and climate controls are simply gone, replaced by the touch-sensitive functions on the screen and by dueling sets of steering-wheel-mounted buttons and those winged bars. It's a revolutionary feature, allowing a host of navigation and media functions, too, such as finding the closest Starbucks with your voice, or tagging you music and syncing with iTunes.

Source: Internet

1955 Lincoln Futura

2011-01-03T00:45:00.000-08:00

Source: Internet

Presidential Cars (Lincoln)

2010-12-02T12:10:00.000-08:00

Lincoln Limousine used by President Calvin Coolidge, c. 1924

Lincoln has a long history of providing official state limousines for the U.S. President. The first car specially built for Presidential use was the 1939 Lincoln V12 convertible called the "Sunshine Special" used by Franklin D. Roosevelt. It remained in use until 1948.

A 1950 Lincoln Cosmopolitan called the "Bubble Top" was used by Presidents Truman, Eisenhower, Kennedy, and once by Johnson. It was retired in 1965.

The Lincoln limousine made famous in Dallas was a 1961 Lincoln Continental convertible, custom built by Hess and Eisenhart of Cincinnati, and known as the SS-100-X. The Secret Service had the car fitted with a 1962 grill for aesthetic reasons. It was in use from 1961 to 1977, having undergone extensive alterations which made it an armor-plated sedan after Kennedy's assassination. A 1969 Lincoln was used by Nixon and a 1972 Lincoln used by Presidents Ford, Carter, Reagan, and Bush. A 1989 Lincoln was the last Presidential Lincoln as of 2004. Cadillac supplied Presidential limousines in 1983, 1993, 2001, and 2004.

The John F. Kennedy limousine also included a "Plexiglas" bubble top to be used in the event of inclement weather. The 1961 vehicle was notorious for its inadequate cooling of the rear of the passenger cabin while the bubble top was in place, particularly in sunshine. In order to prevent excessive heat and discomfort to the passengers, the top was often removed prior to parades, as was the case in Dallas on November 22, 1963.

Though it was always assumed that President Lyndon Baines Johnson had the car destroyed after the assassination of President Kennedy,[citation needed] the 100-X was turned over to the Secret Service, Army Materials Research Center, Hess & Eisenhart, Pittsburgh Plate Glass Company, and Ford Motor Company for retrofitting of armor plating, permanent sedan roof, new interior, improved air-conditioning system, electronic communications equipment, bulletproof glass, a new paint treatment, as well as cosmetic alterations to remove damage incurred during the assassination, among other changes. The car is also on display at the Henry Ford Museum.

The Johnson Administration also used three 1965 Lincoln Continental Executive Limousines. Two limousines for the President and one for Secretary of Defense Robert McNamara, as well as a 1968 "stretch" Lincoln to be used in Washington, D.C., and Austin, Texas. This vehicle is on display at the Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum.

The 100-X was modified again in 1967. Later, under President Richard Nixon, the large one-piece glass roof was replaced with a smaller glass area and a hinged roof panel. It remained in service until 1977 and resides in its final configuration at the Henry Ford Museum.

President Nixon ordered a 1969 model limousine, through Lehman-Peterson of Chicago. This vehicle also had an added sunroof so that Nixon could stand upright when appearing before parade-goers if desired. This vehicle was equipped with several features, such as retractable hand grips and running boards, options later copied by Hess and Eisenhart. This car is now located at the Nixon Library in Yorba Linda, California.

In 1974, Ford supplied a 1972 Continental model which was stretched to 22 feet (7 m), outfitted with armor plating, bullet resistant glass and powered by a 460 cu in (7.5 L) V8 engine. This limousine was used by Presidents Gerald Ford, Jimmy Carter, and Ronald Reagan, and is on display at the Henry Ford Museum. This model was also altered a number of times during its history, including a full body redesign in 1979. This was the limousine that Reagan was about to enter during his assassination attempt in 1981.

Lincoln Futura

2010-11-02T02:07:00.000-07:00

1955 Lincoln Futura Concept

The Lincoln Futura was a concept car designed by the Lincoln division of Ford Motor Company. It was built by Ghia entirely by hand in Italy at a cost of $250,000 and displayed on the auto show circuit in 1955.

Futura's styling was extravagantly impractical even by the standards of the '50s, with a double, clear-plastic canopy top, exaggerated hooded headlight pods, and very large, outward-canted tailfins at both ends of the vehicle. Nevertheless, the Futura had a complete powertrain and was fully operable in contrast to many show cars then and now. Its original color was white, and was one of the first pearlescent color treatments, using ground pearl to achieve the paint effect. The Futura was powered by a 368 cubic inch Lincoln engine and powertrain; the chassis was that of a Lincoln Mark II.

The Futura was a success as a show car, garnering a great deal of favorable publicity for Ford. It was released as a model kit and a toy, and in a much more subdued form its headlight and tailfin motifs would appear on production Lincolns for 1956 and 1957. It even played a prominent part in a movie, 1959's It Started with a Kiss, starring Debbie Reynolds and Glenn Ford. For the movie, it was painted red, as the pearlescent finish did not photograph well.

After that, though, the car would logically have been forgotten and perhaps destroyed, as most show cars of that time were. However, it was somehow sold into the hands of George Barris, one of the great auto customizers. As the car was never titled and was therefore uninsurable, it was parked behind Barris' shop where it sat idle for several years and was allowed to deteriorate.

In 1966 Barris was requested to design a theme car for the Batman television series, Barris then contracted stylist Dean Jeffries to build a car for the show. Jeffries worked on the design and initial fabrication for the Batmobile, using a 1959 Cadillac, but when the studio wanted the car faster than he could deliver, he turned it back to George Barris. With the short notice, Barris thought the Futura might work well, and using Jeffries initial car, decided that its unusual winged shape would be an ideal starting point for the Batmobile. Barris hired Bill Cushenberry to do the metal modifications to the car.

Barris went on to build three fiberglass replicas using the frames and running gear from 1966 Ford Galaxie cars for the show circuit, three of which were covered with a felt-like flocking finish in the 1970's. Barris later acquired a fourth replica, a metal car built on a 1958 Thunderbird.

Replica

In the 1990's, Bob Butts (under George Barris' consent) made replicas of the Batmobiles. He took one of the Barris-built replica Batmobiles and made a mold of it. Based on pictures from when the Futura was shown in the 1950's, he retrofitted one of his Batmobile replicas into the Futura. He only created one copy and since the original Futura became the Batmobile, this is the only known Futura in existence.

Bob Butts Replica as seen in Ohio November 7th 2009.

Source: Wikipedia

Lincoln Versailles

2010-11-02T02:00:00.000-07:00

The Lincoln Versailles was the first mid-size car from Ford Motor Company's Lincoln luxury division. It was sold from 1977 to 1980, as a four-door sedan only, with a total production of 50,156. The Versailles was largely a response to the great success of the smaller Cadillac Seville which had appeared in 1975. The Seville was based upon the Chevrolet Nova and became an instant hit. Ford responded by choosing the Ford Granada and Mercury Monarch as the base for a new mid-size Lincoln sedan.

1977–1980

History

Ford did not have as much development capital to spend on its vehicles as General Motors, which was a problem that has often led to the similar bodies of Ford and Mercury models. Until the Versailles, however, care had generally been taken to give Lincolns a distinct appearance and feel, in order to hide their sometimes humble origins although by the seventies the similarities were very apparent. But the Versailles was visibly a Ford Granada clone and quickly became one of Lincoln's greatest sales disasters.

Unable to afford a new body, Lincoln stylists attempted to disguise this fact with a Lincoln-esque grille and wheels, along with a "humped" trunk lid that mimicked the spare tire bulge of the Continental Mark coupe. Whether these elements really worked on a smaller vehicle could be debated, but what was in between was indisputably Granada. Doors and windows were interchangeable, the roofline was identical and inside, the potential luxury buyer faced the same dashboard design as the budget-minded Granada customer. Perhaps most tellingly, the Granada windshield wipers remained present and exposed, long after hidden wipers had become expected not just on luxury cars, but even on intermediates. Even more, the base model Versailles for model year 1977 was exactly the same car as the top of the line 1976 Mercury Grand Monarch (which could have been purchased for 50% less than the Lincoln counterpart).

1980 Lincoln Versailles rear, showing extended roofline & continental trunklid

A somewhat longer, more formal roofline (via a hidden fiberglass cap) was grafted on for 1979, with a carriage-style landau vinyl roof. The car was also given some genuine firsts. The Versailles was the first American car to use halogen headlights and the first to use clearcoat paint, which would shortly spread throughout the industry. Buyers evidently noticed, because sales went up to 21,000, then virtually stopped. The Versailles was withdrawn before the end of the 1980 model year with only about 4,000 produced, although prototypes for the next generation design had already been built.

Unlike other Lincoln vehicles, and the Cadillac Seville of the same period (the "Elegante" package from 1978), the Versailles was available in standard sedan form only with no "designer editions" or luxury packages adding to its title (i.e-"(Title) Edition").

Lincoln remained out of the luxury mid-size market for a couple of years, then re-entered the market in 1982 with the downsized Lincoln Continental.

Technical specifications

The car's mechanicals, along with its body, were somewhat lackluster. The standard 351 cu in (5.8 L) V8 was carbureted, as opposed to the Seville's fuel injected 350 cu in (5.7 L). Even worse, Ford's situation with regard to the tightening fuel-economy standards was precarious, as it had not been able to afford as fast a downsizing of its line as GM had managed. Consequently, almost immediately the Versailles was cut back to the smaller 302 in³ V8, which was very common in the Granada.

The rear differential used in the Versailles was the tried and true Ford 9-inch, but equipped with rear disc brakes, replacing the drums on the Granada and the Monarch. A Versailles complete rear end assembly or brake setup can be fitted to many other 1960's & 1970's Ford products, making them a popular swap.

At least in its brake setup, the Versailles did measure up to its Cadillac rival. A unique and rigorous quality-control regime was also used at the factory, according to advertising. The car sold 15,000 units in its first year, compared to the Seville's 45,000 that same year. For 1978, sales were about half of the mediocre 1977figure. The car's close relationship to the Granada had an unforeseen consequence. Although the Versailles was a sedan-only model, its trim and mechanical parts would bolt right onto a Granada coupe. An unknown number of these two-door conversions were made by owners with a sense of humor, particularly as donor Versailles began to depreciate and show up in wrecking yards.

Today

Today, the Versailles' lack of success is working for it. The fairly small number produced has given the car rarity value, and Versailles values are reportedly going up. As the enthusiast site lincolnversailles.com puts it, "Finding few Versailles buyers during the late 1970s, today it is being viewed as a future classic. Low mileage and restored Versailles are, now, being advertised with list prices from $5,500 to $10,000."

In early calendar 2005, as a 2006 model, the Lincoln Zephyr (shortly renamed the Lincoln MKZ) was introduced, an update of the Versailles' basic concept in that it was very much an up-trimmed Ford (in this case, the Ford Fusion).

Source: Wikapedia

Ford Charts Turn-Around For Lincoln With Seven Revamped Models

2010-10-04T15:37:00.000-07:00

Ford Motor Co. must establish Lincoln as a solid luxury brand in the United States before taking it abroad, CEO Alan Mulally said Thursday.

That could take five years -- enough time for Lincoln to introduce seven new or refreshed models.

"Once we get Lincoln going in the U.S. and people appreciate it, I think there will be a lot of customer pull around the world for Lincoln," Mulally told reporters at the Paris Motor Show.

Lincoln has fallen from the top-selling luxury brand in the country, with peak sales of 231,660 in 1990, to No. 6 in 2009, with sales of 82,800, according to Autodata Corp.

Key to reviving Lincoln's appeal, and elevating its status, is reducing the number of U.S. dealers -- 1,187 today -- and demanding higher dealer standards to better compete with foreign brands.

Ford has said it won't terminate Lincoln dealers, but it is banking that many will voluntarily step aside after deciding they can't afford to make the investment that Ford will require.

"This is a pivotal time," said Bob Tasca Jr., president of Tasca Automotive Group in Cranston, R.I., and chairman of the Lincoln Mercury Dealer Council. "Opportunity comes once in a brand's lifetime."

Much of the campaign to reinvent Lincoln centers on dealers, who will meet in Dearborn next week to learn what Ford expects of them.

"Company leaders and select dealer representatives are working together to help create a new and improved luxury ownership experience for future customers," said Lincoln spokesman Christian Bokich.

Details are being kept under wraps. But since June, senior Ford managers have met four times with a Lincoln advisory committee. There is an ongoing debate about what would constitute the optimum number of Lincoln dealers, as Ford uses the year-end demise of its Mercury line as a springboard to rehabilitate the brand.

Analysis of the luxury market suggests Lincoln should be pared to about 350 outlets in major markets, to directly compete with the upscale foreign brands. But its domestic rival, General Motors Co.'s Cadillac, has 1,260 U.S. dealers.

"Over 1,000 places to buy Lincoln are too many and it isn't working," said Tasca, but 300 may not be enough to sustain the brand. "There will be a place in the middle that would work."

Tasca says Ford "won't put a gun to anyone's head. It will be up to the individual dealer to make a business decision."

There are 264 dealers who sell Lincoln and Mercury in their showrooms. Some will fold without the volume boost from Mercury, others likely will consolidate with Ford franchises.

But hundreds, especially in smaller markets, could decide the return is not worth the investment that will be asked of them.

Much of Ford's focus is on determining the optimal number of Lincoln dealers in the top 30 metropolitan markets. Half of the brand's sales are from rural dealers in cities without competition from luxury foreign brands.

Ford must align Lincoln dealers with where luxury buyers are concentrated, said analyst Rebecca Lindland of IHS Automotive in Lexington, Mass.

"They have to do significant regional studies before closing doors to avoid a backlash because people are used to a dealer around the corner," she said.

Dealers to get overview
In Dearborn Monday, dealers will get an overview of the luxury landscape, comparing Lincoln with benchmark brands such as Lexus, BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Audi. The next day, they'll hear details about the plan to make Lincoln competitive, covering everything from dealership facilities, signs and furniture to staff training.

"Lincoln must portray an upscale image to go head-to-head with the European luxury brands," said Randy Berlin, a director with dealer consultant Urban Science of Detroit.

A Lincoln franchise needs to be clearly delineated from the Ford brand, preferably with its own entrance and ambiance, Berlin said. "The worst scenario is someone who diminishes the brand for others," he said.

"You won't see a gorilla on the roof of a Lincoln dealer during a sale."

Ford has not set investment figures because there are many variables, Mark Fields, Ford president of the Americas, said recently.

Sheldon Sandler, CEO of dealer financial consultants Bel Air Partners LLC in Skillman, N.J., estimated the cost of refurbishing a dealership at $500 million to $2 million. A new standalone showroom could run as high as $5 million, depending on real estate prices, he said.

"It will be up to the individual dealer to decide if they can make it without Mercury and how much they need to invest in Lincoln for the future," Tasca said.

"Some will say they can't make it."

Lou Stanford, owner of Varsity Lincoln in Novi, knows it will be tough after losing Mercury.

"It will be a struggle until we get more products," he said. "I have no intention of closing or consolidating."

The overhaul will be long and expensive, Lindland said, noting that Cadillac's rehabilitation took a decade and cost billions.

And it will take time, Berlin said: "Consumers need experience with the product and ownership before they can say 'Lincoln' and 'BMW' in the same breath."

Source: The Detroit News

Lincoln Premiere

2010-09-01T17:52:00.000-07:00

1956 Lincoln Premiere coupe

The Lincoln Premiere was a luxury car sold by Ford Motor Company's Lincoln-Mercury division. It was produced in both 2 and 4 door versions both seating 6 people. A limousine version was also offered, which had the same wheelbase as the sedan version, but its cabin extended further back, allowing for more space for rear passengers. The limousine version also had a division window. The Premiere was sold in the 1956 to 1960 model years, inclusive, and was positioned below the company's Continental and above the Capri. The vehicle featured a 6.0 L V8 and was approximately 223" (5664 mm) long. The vehicle weighed 4357 lb (1976.3 kg) and had a price tag of approximately $4,600 in 1956, which equals roughly $31,730 in 2005 dollars.

The Premiere was known for its stylish exterior, high-grade interior and some unique features. For example, when equipped with optional "factory air conditioning," the vents were located overhead, much like those in an aircraft. The cool air was directed to the roof via a pair of clear plastic ducts visible through the rear window at each side, connecting upward from the rear package tray.

Source: Wikipedia

Ford kills Mercury, will make Lincoln the most efficient luxury brand

2010-08-01T15:44:00.000-07:00

Lincoln Concept C

Ford Motor Company is finally getting serious about making Lincoln a top notch premium brand to compete with the likes of Lexus and Cadillac. To make that happen, the Blue Oval will introduce seven all new or heavily refreshed models to the Lincoln lineup in the next four years, each of which it claims will have segment-leading fuel efficiency.

245diggsdiggFord's plans for Lincoln include offering Ecoboost engines in every model as well as new exclusive powerplants and advanced transmissions. Ford has already previously committed to having six-speed automatic transmissions in all of its models by 2012 and the rejuvenated Lincolns will likely be the first to move to seven- or eight-speed gearboxes. Even the massive Navigator full-size SUV will get an Ecoboost V6 sometime after it debuts in the F150 pickup truck later this year.

This announcement also brings confirmation that Lincoln will get its first ever C-segment vehicle built on the next-generation Ford Focus platform. That car may be based on the Concept C that was shown at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show. Lincoln is also getting its hybrid this fall when the MKZ hybrid goes on sale.

In order to free up the engineering resources to put all of this effort into Lincoln, Ford finally bit the bullet today and pulled the plug on the Mercury brand. Mercury hasn't had an exclusive model since the Cougar was discontinued in 2002, and its sales have dropped by more than 70 percent in the past several years. Mercury production will end later this year.

Source: Green Autoblog

Can Automatic Car Washes Damage Your Car?

2010-07-01T10:37:00.001-07:00

Automatic/drive-through car washes are more popular than ever because they save time and hassle.

But are automatic car washes safe for your car? In fact, in many instances, they are the "safest" course of action for many car owners who want to keep their car clean.

In fact, automatic car washes can be safer for your car's finish than washing your car yourself because do-it-yourselfers sometimes don't use enough water to safely remove dirt; or they wash the car in direct sunlight -- which can burn spots in the paint. Or they use the wrong type of soap -- such as dishwashing detergent, which removes protective wax and leaves a chalky residue on the finish. Or any one of several common mistakes can end up doing more harm than good.

Cars by the numbers:

3 Most Popular Muscle Cars6 Cheap Cars with Great Gas Mileage10 Fastest Sports CarsKeeping your car clean and the finish looking good can also mean higher resale value when it comes time to get a new car. All else being equal, a car with faded paint and a dingy overall look sells for 10-20 percent less than an otherwise identical vehicle that just looks nicer.

So how often should you have your vehicle washed? That depends on how quickly it gets dirty -- and how dirty it gets. For some cars, once a month or so is sufficient -- especially if the car is lightly used and kept in a garage. But some cars will need a bath more often -- especially those that are parked outdoors where they're exposed to bird droppings, tree sap and so on, or driven in areas with very long/severe winters, where the roads are salted when it snows.

Here are a few important things to keep in mind when it comes to automatic car washes:

Be sure it's "brushless" -- Some older car washes still use abrasive brushes (instead of cloth), which can leave small scratches in a car's finish. On older cars with so-called "single stage" paint jobs, light scratches could usually be buffed out; but all modern cars use a "base/clear" system with a thin, transparent layer of clear coat on top of the underlying color coat to provide the shine. Once the thin clear coat is damaged, often the only way to restore the shine is to repaint the damaged area.

Another safe bet is "touchless" car washes that use only high-pressure water jets and detergents to clean the car -- without physically touching it at all. There is virtually no chance of your vehicle suffering any cosmetic damage this way. Some areas have "self-service" coin-operated hand washes, which are great for spraying away heavy dirt buildup. You'll usually need to bring your own bucket, wash cloth/sponge and dry towels, though.

Watch out for the after-wash wipe-down -- Most drive-through washes use a strong jet of heated air to force excess water off after the car goes through the wash. Many full-service car washes will then have you drive the car (or drive it for you, in some cases) away from the wash area to be hand-wiped by attendants. This is usually OK -- provided the attendants are using fresh, clean (and soft) towels to do so. Be alert on busy days, when lots of other cars have gone ahead of you. If you see the attendants using obviously dirty old rags to wipe the car down, you should say "thanks, but no thanks" -- and drive away wet. Dirt and other abrasives in the rags can scratch the finish just like sandpaper. Simply driving away from the wash and letting air flow over the car to dry any remaining water won't hurt anything -- and is the best guarantee of a no-damage experience. Any lingering streaks can easily be cleaned up at home yourself using readily available spray cleaners designed for just this purpose. (Honda Pro Spray Cleaner & Polish is excellent for this; it also provides UV protection and easily and safely cleans off bugs, tar and road grime, etc. without water.)

Hold off on the extras -- A "works" car wash can cost twice as much as the basic wash, but you may not be getting twice the wash for your money. Undercarriage rustproofing, for example, is of dubious value. Effective rustproofing is applied to brand-new metal, in order to seal it from contact with external corrosives such as road salt. Most new cars are extensively rustproofed at the factory during the assembly process; further "treatment" is superfluous -- and a money-waster.

On the other hand, if the wash offers an undercarriage bath, it may be worth the additional cost. Jets of water sprayed directly underneath the car can break loose accumulated crud that would be difficult (and unpleasant) to try to remove yourself using a garden hose. It's also important that underbody drainage holes not be obstructed by mud and other buildup; accumulated moisture can accelerate rust or (in the case of the air conditioning system) lead to the formation of mold in the system. The undercarriage bath should help keep those drain holes clear.

Do, however, think twice about spray-on wax. This typically adds at least a couple bucks to the cost of the wash and while it doesn't hurt anything, it's no substitute for hand-applied polish/wax. Spray-on "wax" may provide a short-term gloss enhancement, but doesn't protect against UV sun damage the way hand-applied wax does. Ditto the cost of having an attendant spray Armor All (or a similar protectant) on your tires to make them shiny. The cost for this extra can be equivalent to the cost of buying an entire bottle of the stuff on your own.

Wheel and tire cleaning is an exception; the heavy-duty cleaners used by the car wash do a great job of removing baked-on brake dust, etc., that can otherwise be a real chore to clean on your own, using over-the-counter cleaners, a hand brush and a hose. It's especially important to keep aluminum alloy wheels clean; brake dust can eventually permanently stain them if it's not regularly cleaned away.

Finally:

Make sure your car's OK before you leave -- While many car washes will have a disclaimer posted that they are "not responsible for any damages that may occur" as a result of running your car through their wash, that doesn't mean you should automatically absolve them of any damage their equipment or personnel may have caused. If you notice something, ask to see the manager and point it out to him; whether "legally liable" or not, he may offer to fix the problem in the interest of customer relations. And even if he does not, you can still pursue the matter with a higher-up (such as the company headquarters, if the wash is a franchise, as many associated with big-name gas stations often are). If you have a cell phone with a camera, use it to take a photo of the damage in order to support your claim. And it ought to go without saying that you should never leave your purse or other valuables in the car if you use a wash where an attendant will have access to the vehicle's interior.

Source: Autos.aol

Lincoln Marketing Targeting "Gen Xers"

2010-06-29T00:11:00.000-07:00

Adopting a youthful, sporty image worked wonders for Cadillac, so it's no surprise to hear that Lincoln has decided to pursue a younger demographic with its new marketing campaign.

Lincoln is reportedly interested in targeting its ad materials to the "Gen X" crowd. Ranging between the ages of 35 and 45, these buyers are seen as key to Lincoln because they're reaching their earnings potential, and that they don't seem to have an opinion - good or bad - on the brand.

"They are wide open to the message," says Lincoln Marketing Manager Thomais Zaremba. "We have no baggage with them."

Lincoln's spacey ad campaigns are chock full of slick graphics and CGI, and feature '80s songs performed by modern alt-rock groups like Shiny Toy Guns and Australian singer Sia. Zaremba hopes the ads will appeal to the "children of the '80s," and make Lincoln's presence known to a group that may also be considering a Lexus, Audi, or BMW for the first time.

Source

Lincoln History

2010-06-29T00:10:00.000-07:00

Source: Lincoln
1917 The Lincoln Motor Company is founded in Detroit by Henry Leland to build Liberty aircraft engines for the First World War.
1920 The first Lincoln car, the 'L' series, is introduced.

1922 The Ford Motor Company acquires Lincoln at the urging of Edsel Ford.

1936 The Lincoln Zephyr, the first successful streamlined car, is introduced.

1940 Zephyr becomes the basis for the original Lincoln Continental - a car Frank Lloyd Wright declared to be the most beautiful in the world. It also was the first vehicle honored for design excellence by the Museum of Modern Art in New York.

1956 The Continental Mark II, which was developed under the direction of Edsel Ford's son, William Clay Ford, establishes the classic hood, cabin and deck proportions of the modern luxury coupe.

1961 A new Continental is introduced. It remains one of the most enduring designs of all time. Its sheer body surfaces, unique center-opening doors and chrome accented upper shoulder line established a signature look for Lincoln that was totally unique.

1968 The Lincoln Mark III, the first of a new generation of Mark-series coupes, is introduced.
1970 The Continental is redesigned. The new car is built on a 127-inch wheelbase frame and offers V-8 engines that range in size up to 460 cubic inches (7.5-liters). Throughout the 1970s, Continental is offered with a Town Car package that included special leather seats and wood appliqués in the cabin.

1981 The Lincoln Town Car is introduced as its own line. The new car is built on a 117.3-inch wheelbase and is powered by a 5.0-liter V-8 engine.

1990 The second-generation Town Car is introduced. The car is powered by the venerable 5.0-liter V-8. The wheelbase is unchanged. For the first time, Town Car is offered with dual front air bags, speed-sensitive power steering and rear air spring suspension. Anti-lock brakes are optional.

1998 The third-generation Town Car is introduced. The wheelbase is slightly longer than the previous car, but the exterior design is more contemporary. The engine is a modern overhead cam 4.6-liter V-8. A Watt's linkage rear suspension and other chassis refinements are adopted.

The Navigator is introduced. As the first American luxury sport-utility vehicle, it became an overnight success. Fully 60 percent of Navigator customers are new to the Lincoln brand.

1998 - 2001 Lincoln Mercury relocates its headquarters from Detroit to Irvine, Calif., in the heart of the country's largest market for luxury vehicles. Its permanent headquarters opens in 2001.

1999 The Lincoln LS is introduced and is named Motor Trend's 2000 'Car of the Year.' Fully 70 percent of LS customers are new to the Lincoln brand.

2000 Dedicated Lincoln design, product development, purchasing, finance and manufacturing organizations are established.

2001 The Lincoln MK 9 concept is unveiled. Together with the Continental concept, it points to the design direction of future Lincoln vehicles.

The 2002 Lincoln Blackwood is launched. It faithfully recreates the 1998 concept vehicle.

The 2003 Lincoln Town Car is unveiled by Ford Motor Company President and Chief Operating Officer Nick Scheele at the Henry Ford Estate in Dearborn.

2002 The 2003 Lincoln Navigator is revealed at the Los Angeles Auto Show and the all-new 2003 Lincoln Aviator is revealed at the New York Auto Show. The new Navigator, Aviator and Town Car will be joined by a new 2003 LS later in the year.

The Lincoln Continental concept is introduced at the Los Angeles Auto Show. It embodies elegance, simplicity and restraint.

1959 Mark IV

2010-06-29T00:09:00.000-07:00

2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid boasts luxury plus efficiency, but is it enough?

2010-06-29T00:07:00.001-07:00

2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid

Earlier this week we reported that Ford had plans to repurpose its very well-received hybrid powertrain in the Lincoln MKZ. Makes sense, right? Both the Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan (sister cars of the MKZ) benefit from the fuel-sipping mill, and by adding a bit of electric power to the Lincoln lineup, Ford is hoping to attract more buyers into its luxury division's showrooms. What's more, since Lincoln vehicles carry higher price points than comparable Ford or Mercury products, the return on this hybrid investment means a larger profit margin for the automaker as a whole.

Well, now it's official. For the 2011 model year, the Lincoln MKZ will offer the award-winning 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder gasoline/electric powertrain from the Fusion and Milan hybrids, good for up to 41 miles per gallon in the city. In doing this, Lincoln aims to compete directly with the recently introduced Lexus HS250h, and since the MKZ will net six more MPGs than the HS, it can safely take the title of most fuel-efficient luxury sedan in America. What's more, the MKZ is slightly larger than the Lexus, and if Ford plays its cards right, we wouldn't be surprised if the MKZ Hybrid is less expensive than the HS, as well.

Aside from the powertrain, the new hybrid doesn't differ too much from the rest of the MKZ range. Plenty of standard amenities are on tap, such as the cool-looking SmartGauge with EcoGuide, a reverse sensing system, heated and cooled front seats, Ford's MyKey system and – of course – SYNC.

But the big question surrounding the MKZ Hybrid isn't how well it will perform against the Lexus, but if it will carry enough extra kit to significantly differentiate it from a Fusion or Milan with the same powertrain. Consumers who are only looking for efficiency might be willing to sacrifice certain luxury amenities to save money, and this dilemma has always affected MKZ sales. Still, luxury-minted customers would be wise to look at this as an alternative option to the HS250h, and we'll keep a close eye on sales numbers when the MKZ Hybrid goes on sale later this year.

Source: Autoblog

1940 Lincoln Zephyr Brochure

2010-06-29T00:03:00.000-07:00

Source: Internet

Four Newest Trends For Car Thieves

2010-06-29T00:02:00.000-07:00

1. Odometer Fraud

Amid so many technological advances, the full digitization of the dashboard has had an effect on odometers. Odometer rollbacks are "back in a big way," said Christopher Basso of Carfax. "There is widespread use of digital odometers. People are getting software off the internet rather than cracking open the dash and hand-cranking back the odometer. It's harder to detect as there are no physical signs the vehicle has been tampered with."

Odometer rollbacks increased 57 percent from 2004-2008 (the last year for which data is available), with more than 450,000 cases reported annually. Over the last five years there's been a nearly 60 percent increase in the number of vehicles reported with odometer rollbacks, Basso says. The number of unreported cases -- where a consumer is unaware there is a problem -- is potentially much higher.

"It is a big and growing problem that continues to plague used-car buyers," said Basso.

But Frank Scafidi, of the National Insurance Crime Bureau, says rolling back odometers "is not as easy as it used to be."

"It happens here or there but it is not the predominant cause of auto fraud. Just like making moonshine, you're still going to find people somewhere doing it because they know how to do it. It's just now most people prefer to get their alcohol at a liquor store."

Poll
Have you been the victim of a vehicle break in?
Yes
No

2. Car Cloning

Scafidi says one of the newest auto frauds is "car cloning." Cloning occurs when multiple (usually higher-end) cars of the same model are stolen and registered with a VIN number from a legitimate vehicle.

"The thieves go get a VIN number from a showroom floor and reproduce it three or four times and attach it to the stolen vehicles and then ship them to four or five states," said Scafidi. "The multiple VIN numbers for us are the biggest red flags out there, and we go get 'em."

The FBI says that car-cloning rings -- often established for decades -- operate in most major cities nationwide. While there is no way to calculate true rates of car cloning, the FBI says it constitutes a "significant percentage" of vehicle thefts, the value of which totaled $6.4 billion in 2008. The agency recommends always buying your car from a reputable dealership and checking your car's VIN number with your state's licensing agency before you buy.

Common warning signs that you may have bought a cloned car include receiving unpaid traffic tickets you haven't sustained; a model being sold for much less than buyer's guides indicate it should be; scratches or evidence of tampering on the car's VIN number on the door frame or engine block; or a missing vehicle history report.

Terri Miller, director of Michigan's Halt Auto Theft program, says: "We're seeing a lot of cloning. They'll go to a scapyard and buy a clean title and they can then use that number on a vehicle of the same make and model."

3. Component theft and resale

With car stereos -- traditionally the item most stolen from cars -- getting harder to pilfer as a result of electronic security measures, thieves are getting more inventive.

Nationally, more than 75,000 airbags are stolen every year, according to the FBI. Thefts of GPS and DVD systems are increasing alongside the popularity of the devices among aftermarket buyers. Thefts of xenon headlights are also a growing problem. The advantage (or disadvantage) of component theft: The goods often are difficult to track and usually there's a fairly constant demand for them.

Miller says component theft is "the biggest thing. As cars are getting harder to steal, they have to steal parts of them. We're seeing easily fenced items such as tires, rims and GPS units getting stolen."

She says many items end up being sold online or on the street. In many cases buyers may think they're buying a legitimate product rather than a stolen part. She says that criminal enterprises, like legitimate businesses, mainly work on the basis of supply and demand.

"Occasionally, when, for example, Ford Taurus airbags are on back order, we'll see an increase in thefts."

4. Carjackings

You may think that carjackings had gone the way of spinning rims, but rates are holding steady in Southern California and increasing in Michigan. And there are pockets of America urban areas where the trend never really died down.

Officer Canales of the Los Angeles Police Department's Rampart Division says carjacking is still "pretty common."

"We get a few every now and then, usually a gun or knife is involved. It can be anything from high-value to low-value [cars] but we see more Hondas -- Accords and Civics -- and Toyotas."

Carjackings occur most frequently in urban areas and account for about three percent of all thefts, the Insurance Information Institute reports.

"A co-worker of my husband last week was carjacked outside a pizza parlor," Miller said. "He pointed a gun and said, 'You know what I want,' and drove off in his brand-new Mustang.

"Most carjackings involve a weapon so we always advise motorists to hand over their keys before they become a statistic," Miller says.

Where You Live Is As Important As What You Drive

A motor vehicle is stolen in the United States every 33 seconds, according to the FBI. In 2008, most vehicles -- or 37.8 percent, were stolen in the South, followed by the West at 33.9 percent, the Midwest at 18.3 percent and the Northeast at 10 percent. But thefts are decreasing by about 12 percent year on year for the last five years.

"Thefts follow technology," said Scafidi. "Smart keys or digital security devices are playing a big part in the reduction."

Source: AOL Autos

Classic Lincolns

2010-06-28T23:37:00.001-07:00

1956 Lincoln Continental Mark II

1955 Lincoln Futura

1940 Lincoln Continental

1958 Lincoln Continental Mark III

1934 Lincoln Model KB limousine

Source: ClassicCars

Les Hilgers 1950 Lincoln Custom

2010-06-02T22:28:00.001-07:00

You can have all the '49-50 Mercs in the world because with '50 Lincoln customs being built like Les Hilgers, them ol' Mercs don't stand a chance. Les covered the Lincoln steel in gold metalflake before lowering the car over capped and whitewall wrapped steelies. A 351ci Windsor engine provides the go, shifted by a C4 trans. With our cutoff date moved well into the '60s now, it was an obvious choice to go with Les' '50s-style custom Lincoln for a Top 100 honor.

Source: Streetrodderweb

New York 2010: 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid is exactly what we expected

2010-04-08T12:48:00.001-07:00

2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid

Ford has reminded us over and over again about its plans to offer a full line of electified vehicles in the United States. The Escape and Mariner hybrids started this trend, the Fusion and Milan hybrids are garnering lots of praise, and with new products like the Transit Connect Electric and Focus Electric hitting the streets in the not-too-distant future, the automaker appears to be fulfilling its goals. The newest addition to the electrified lineup is this 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid, which builds upon the success of its Fusion and Milan sister hybrids.

With fuel economy ratings of 41 miles per gallon in the city and 36 on the highway, the MKZ Hybrid will lay claim to the most fuel-efficient luxury sedan in America, besting its nearest competitor,the Lexus HS250h,by six MPGs. Ford has also assured us that the MKZ will be priced below the Lexus, making it a more affordable alternative for shoppers. Aside from the addition of the four-cylinder hybrid powertrain, not much changes from the standard MKZ and Ford is hoping that this vehicle will bring more buyers into Lincoln showrooms when the car hits dealerships this fall.

Source: Autoblog

Review: 2010 Lincoln MKT EcoBoost AWD has a good personality and great moves

2010-04-08T11:49:00.001-07:00

2010 Lincoln MKT EcoBoost AWD

Approaching the 2010 Lincoln MKT for the first time is like meeting a blind date. You've been told by friends she has a good personality, which immediately has you wondering what she looks like. From a distance you see your fears confirmed: She's a big girl with a toothy grin and a weird hump. If super models are your thing, you'll be disappointed by this three-row crossover sitting alone in the corner with a red carnation in her hair. But if you meet her with an open mind, you'll find that a good personality goes a long way.

It's our job to go on blind dates with vehicles before you do, and despite the MKT's controversial design, we're glad we sat down and got to know her. Now, if you can't get over seeing a beached whale in your driveway every morning, stop reading; no twin-turbo direct-inject V6 engine, advanced infotainment features or luxurious appointments will change your mind. We'll agree to disagree and you'll probably pass judgment on the MKT from afar, not even giving it the courtesy of a test drive before shacking up with that German model. Will you regret not getting to know the MKT like we did? Read on to find out.

The Lincoln MKT has a sister – the Ford Flex. Both models are based on Ford's D4 full-size CUV platform and built in Oakville, Ontario. In past years, that would mean the Flex and MKT were near identical twins, the Lincoln version merely a rebadged interpretation of the Ford, with a new grille and more upscale materials. The MKT, however, is more like a big sister to the Flex – still related but not its twin.

Ford calls it a "differentiated top-hat strategy." The two vehicles share the same platform, suspension, engines and other mechanicals, but everything you can see and touch without the use of a wrench is unique to both. Lincoln designers, perhaps restless after being tethered to Ford designs for so long, went a little nuts.

We count three design elements that make the MKT controversial, and we'll start with that grille. It's called a "dual wing" in Lincoln parlance and can also be seen on the MKZ, MKS and newly redesigned 2011 MKX. We're all for establishing a consistent brand identity, but someone should've had the foresight to consider what enlarging Lincoln's new corporate face by 125 percent would look like. Now we know: Not so good. It's a shame too, as the rest of the front fascia is clean – elegant even – with interesting details like the centered crease that runs forward from the base of the windshield, splits the Lincoln logo and terminates in the undercarriage. But who notices stuff like that when faced with the grille's mighty wingspan?

The other two off-putting design elements are an upward kink in the rear fender and that forward-leaning rear hatch. Whether or not you like the kink is up to you. We don't really understand its purpose, but it doesn't ruin the design. The canted hatch, however, steals valuable cargo space and headroom from third-row passengers. There's only 17.9 cubic feet of cargo space with the third row upright, though that jumps to 75.9 when it's stowed. The Flex, however, with its right angles and slab sides, is easily a more practical crossover because the MKT makes sacrifices at the altar of the aesthetic gods.

Aside from those three distracting elements, Lincoln designers did well making the MKT's outward appearance live up to its more-expensive-than-Flex price tag. Our tester's White Platinum Metallic Tri-Coat paint was as flawless as a pearl, while the lack of cladding, sparing use of chrome and simple surfaces reminded us of contemporary furniture design. The MKT would be right at home in a SoHo loft parked next to a $5,000 Italian sofa.

Once you get past the exterior (if you can), an interior awaits that's above reproach. The materials are first rate, featuring stitched leather on the padded dash, center console and doors. Real Olive Ash wood trim cuts across the middle and also tops the big multifunction steering wheel, and those Canyon-colored leather seats are supremely comfortable and supportive with 12-way adjustability for both the driver and front seat passenger, as well as being heated and cooled.

While two second-row captain's chairs are an option, we prefer the 60/40 split bench our tester was equipped with. The third row can fit two people in a pinch, but we'd rather stuff a third in the middle before banishing anyone to the back. Regardless of which seat you're assigned, Lincoln's optional Panoramic Vista Roof bathes the whole interior in soft light, which helps neutralize claustrophobia for passengers who might feel closed in by the vehicle's high beltline.

Functionally, the MKT carries forward the segment-leading infotainment systems that are now a huge selling point for Ford. This current-generation system features SYNC, SIRIUS Satellite Radio with Travel Link, a 10 GB HDD, USB and auxiliary inputs, along with Bluetooth connectivity. We're particularly impressed that most Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with SYNC now also handle Bluetooth audio. That means in addition to routing calls through the vehicle, a Bluetooth-compatible music player can also play tunes through the THX-certified stereo without plugging in. All is controlled using a big touchscreen with sharp graphics and an easy-to-understand interface that also doubles as a monitor for the rear view camera, which you're gonna need when backing this big girl up.

On the topic of not hitting things, the MKT can be had with two technologies that help you avoid rearranging its sheetmetal. The first is the Blind Spot Monitoring System, an admittedly ubiquitous piece of tech in large vehicles these days, but a helpful one in the MKT with its rather large blind spots. The second is Active Park Assist, another technology you can find in other high-end automobiles, but the Lincoln's system is by far the best we've used. Simply pull the MKT alongside an open parking spot on the street, hit the APA button and inch forward. When the system senses there's enough room to parallel park, put the vehicle in Reverse and let go of the steering wheel. You're on braking duty, but the system will steer and park this barge perfectly every time.

Low-speed maneuvers are one thing, but how does the MKT perform above parking lot speeds? In a word, remarkably. For one, our tester's push button starter fires up Ford's 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 producing 355 horsepower at 5,700 rpm and 350 pound-feet of torque at just 3,500 rpm. We've sampled this engine in the Ford Taurus SHO and Flex, as well as the Lincoln MKS sedan. It's a superlative mill using twin turbos and direct injection to create a power band as deep as Warren Buffet's pockets. With the EcoBoost V6, you wouldn't know the MKT with all-wheel drive weighs a smidge over 5,000 pounds because effortless power is its calling card, just like a larger V8. The upside is better fuel mileage: We experienced a range of between 19–22mpg, which is at the hind of the EPA's 16 city/22 highway mpg estimate. The downside: no V8 vibrations or acoustics.

The MKT uses a six-speed transmission with paddle shifters to carve the EcoBoost's output into maximum thrust chunks. Shifts are smooth and transparent while dropping kids off at soccer practice and making back-and-forth trips to Home Depot, but those oddly shaped paddle are there in case manual control is required. Rare among flappy paddles, up and down shifts are activated on the same paddle, not split on either side. Pull back on either paddle for upshifts and push forward with either thumb for downshifts. It takes some getting used to, but manually controlling shifts means the engine will be at your beck and call rather than preoccupied with maximizing fuel economy.

We were all set to comment on the MKT's handling, steering and breaking in the context of a long road trip we had planned that would rack up over 800 miles, mostly on the highway. It would've been what you expect with remarks about how the MKT goes great in a straight line and soaks up expansion joints like a Tempur-Pedic mattress. All that's true, but a navigation glitch by yours truly meant the nav system plotted our route without the benefit of high- and byways. A blessing in disguise, we road tripped from Cleveland to D.C. on back roads only and had a rare chance to flog the MKT on some of Pennsylvania's windiest roads.

While using the MKT more like a Mustang than the three-row crossover it is, we isolated the one difference that makes it a better driving vehicle than competitors like the Audi Q7 above or Buick Enclave beneath: it's low. Other large CUVs have enough token ground clearance to pretend that "off road" is some place they're actually going to explore, but the MKT drops that pretense and hunkers down over its 20-inch wheels wearing P255/45VR20 all-season rubber. That lower center of gravity combined with all-wheel drive, big contact patches and enough ribbon-smooth pavement to wrap the Keystone state in a bow turned out to be a delicious recipe for surprisingly fun driving.

Fortunately, the MKT's power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering didn't spoil our fun in Pennsylvania back country. Heavy assist is present at low speeds to help turn the tiller of this 5,000+ pound CUV, but as speed climbs that buffer begins to fade and you can feel the friction between the road and tires. This feedback helps your fingers know which direction the wheels are pointed instead of just using your eyes. The four-wheel disc brakes kept up as well, though their mushy feel didn't always inspire confidence even if they did arrest motion well enough when asked.

Are we saying that the MKT is the best handling big CUV out there? No, we're saying that if you require three rows of seating and like the finer things in life, there aren't many better handling large luxury crossovers available, short of a much more expensive and narrowly focused BMW X5 M. In other words, if you want a luxury CUV that feels more like a wagon than a wannabe 'ute, get the MKT.

There's also the issue of price, and the MKT scores well here with a $49,200 base MSRP for the EcoBoost model. When equipped with comparatively powerful V8 engines, the German competition (Audi Q7, BMW X5 and Mercedes-Benz GL) all start above $55,000 with less standard equipment. Our MKT EcoBoost tester came with a $4,000 Elite Package that adds navigation, a THX-certified stereo, the Panoramic Vista Roof and Blind Spot Monitoring System. The only other option we had was Active Park Assist for $595, though Adaptive Cruise Control is also available for $1,295. Even still, the MKT EcoBoost tops out fully loaded where its Germanic competition is just starting.

So our blind date with the 2010 Lincoln MKT turned into a week-long getaway where the journey was more enjoyable than the destination. It does everything well that you'd except, and proved to be extremely comfortable, luxurious and technologically advanced enough to impress the editors of Engadget. But we were most surprised with how well this lady dances, something we would never have known if we saw her sitting alone in the corner and made a B-line for the door.

Source: Autoblog

Refreshing or Revolting: 2011 Lincoln MKX

2010-04-05T14:32:00.001-07:00

2011 MKX Front View

With the compact and midsized premium crossover segments completely saturated, we think Lincoln's decision to boldly restyle of the MKX was a good one.

We're not necessarily saying we like the new design, but it's certainly eye-catching. It starts, predictably, with Lincoln's two-part grille. Most of the automaker's lineup sports confusing and identical-sounding "MK" names -- well, now the front styling will appear similar too.

2010 MKX Front View

2010 MKX Interior

2011 MKX Interior

Overall, the 2011 MKX has more presence than the 2010 Lincoln, which had a larger grille stretched from one headlight to the other. Headlights on the 2011 model are pulled back, as on the MKZ, MKT, and MKS. A character line starts at the headlight, echoing the line of the wheel well bulge, making the MKX appear bigger.

If you've seen the 2010 MKX at night, you know how attractive the long and horizontal taillights appear. That design is replaced on the 2011 model with smaller, chrome-lined units. There are two red reflector bars on the rear bumper to add a bit of visual interest while the rear windshield wiper is out in the open unlike the hidden units on the Lexus RX 350.

The segment-leading Lexus doesn't have much over the Lincoln in the interior department. The 2011 MKX interior is a big improvement over the outgoing car, and perhaps is one reason the 2010 MKX has $4000 on its hood this month. The navigation screen on the center dash is much larger than before, and the rest of the audio and climate controls look less Ford parts bin than before.

The wood trim on the 2011 MKX's steering wheel is less conspicuous than on the 2010 model, and the buttons have moved higher, making them more usable. The instrument cluster is also completely new and, it appears, borrowing a page from the Ford Fusion Hybrid's display.

Overall, we'd have to say the 2011 MKX is a step above the 2010 Lincoln.

Source: Motortrend

Lincoln Prepares MKS, MKZ, MKT for 2009 SEMA Show

2010-02-22T13:09:00.001-08:00

With Ford Motor Company as the primary sponsor of the 2009 SEMA show, we're not too surprised to hear three customized Lincolns will debut in Las Vegas.

Raceskinz has added its subtle touch to the MKS. Carbon fiber accents have been tastefully added to both interior and exterior components -- the roof panel, mirrors, door panels, and the dash trim all have a carbon fiber overlay. The MKS is also outfitted with black rims that feature a subtle polished lip. "Carbon fiber is to us what chrome was to our previous generation," said Tirrelle Lazada-Smith, co-owner of Raceskinz. "It is not gaudy or overdone."

Rick Bottom Designs tricked out an MKT, dubbed the "Panache." With door handles and the antenna shaved, the MKT is as sleek as they come. A chrome beltline molding and lowered suspension further enhance its lines. Sprayed in Turnin' Orange, the Lincoln appears orange in the sun but has a red hue in the shade.

A Lincoln MKZ was revamped by the guys at 3dCarbon. The MKZ is highlighted by mild enhancements like 20-inch deep-dish wheels, an upgraded exhaust, and custom lower door moldings. "The ride and feel of the new MKZ inspired us to enhance the design with a lower stance and conservative touches of aerodynamic styling," said 3dcarbon owner Ernie Bunnell.

Lincoln, with the help of the three customization shops, proves that the brand's vehicles don't have to be conservative. "Lincoln as a brand is continuing to attract younger customers to the showroom with products like the MKS, MKZ, and the new MKT luxury crossover," said Amy Marentic of Ford.

Source

Next Generation Ford Sync to Incorporate WiFi

2010-02-22T13:07:00.001-08:00

Automotive manufacturers have been incorporating more and more technology into cars, and several have gone so far as to add WiFi, making the car a mobile hotspot. Any car equipped with Ford’s next-generation Sync system can be turned into a mobile hotspot.

Unlike other automakers that offer in-car WiFi, Ford does not require a separate subscription for the service. Instead, owners use a USB wireless card (obtained from a cell phone carrier) that gives them access to wireless anywhere service is available. Plugging the wireless card into the Sync USB port transforms the whole car into a mobile hotspot.

“While you’re driving to grandma’s house, your spouse can be finishing the holiday shopping and the kids can be chatting with friends and updating their Facebook profiles,” said Mark Fields, Ford president of the Americas. “And you’re not paying for yet another mobile subscription or piece of hardware because Ford will let you use technology you already have.”

Ford added this technology to its Sync system as people are becoming increasingly connected. Today, there is almost nowhere in the country someone can go and have no way to check email or Web sites to get news. According to a survey by the Consumer Electronics Association, more than one-third of Americans are interested in the ability to check email and access the Web while on the road.

In addition to providing a secure connection for adults to check email, the in-car WiFi also provides for the ultimate rear-seat entertainment system. Instead of using a DVD player and in-car TV screen, kids can now use their own (or their parents’) laptops to provide hours of entertainment perusing the Web or watching streaming video independently of the sibling sitting next to them.

With the new WiFi connection, Ford will also be able to more readily keep the systems up to date. Users will be able to download Sync updates that will allow them to connect and use most devices with the system. Ford’s new second-generation Sync system debuts on select vehicles sometime next year.

Source

2010 Detroit: Lincoln Claims Freshest Luxury Lineup with Redesigned MKX

2010-02-22T13:02:00.000-08:00

With four new nameplates in five years, Lincoln is claiming the freshest luxury lineup in the industry, but it’s the introduction of the redesigned 2011 Lincoln MKX that truly unifies the products. In addition to the corporate face, the updated five-passenger crossover features a larger engine and an all-new infotainment system that removes all physical knobs and buttons from the center stack.

“We redefined the Lincoln lineup for a whole new era of luxury,” said Mark Fields, Ford president of the Americas. “MKX is unmistakably Lincoln.”

The revised exterior brings the MKX into line with the family look established by the MKS sedan. Most notably, the cheese-grater grille on the old MKX has been replaced with Lincoln’s signature split-wing grille. The hood, fenders, and wheel offerings are also new. In the rear, the full-width tail lamps have been replaced by more traditional pieces, lit by LEDs. To replace the horizontal red element, a stamped crease below the Lincoln badge now defines the rear hatch.

Growing from 3.5 liters to 3.7 liters, the engine now makes 305 hp and 280 lb.-ft. To maintain efficiency while increasing the performance, the Duratec powerplant uses twin-independent variable cam timing and late-closing intake valves. Fuel economy stands at 25 mpg on the highway, while city fuel economy hasn’t been announced yet. A six-speed automatic is still the sole transmission and buyers can choose either front- or all-wheel drive.

Inside, drivers will notice a new infotainment system that incorporates three LCD screens along with touch-sensitive buttons on the center-stack. Known as MyLincoln Touch, the system provides navigation, phone integration via Bluetooth, audio entertainment, and climate control. The driver interacts with the system through the 8-inch touch screen in the center stack, two small LCDs in the instrument cluster, and two five-way buttons on the steering wheel. In place of traditional knobs, the MyLincoln features two touch-sensitive sliders to control audio volume and fan speed. As a passenger drags their finger across the horizontal lip, a light follows along to acknowledge their touch. Ford intends to equip MyFord Touch on 80 percent of its vehicles from its three brands, but all Lincolns will have the technology as standard.

Source

Lincoln C Concept At Detroit Auto Show

2010-02-06T13:50:00.000-08:00

After hours footage from the 2009 Detroit Auto Show reveals how the cars are loaded onto their turntables.

Source: Youtube

C Concept, Lincoln, Detroit Auto Show.

2010-02-06T13:48:00.000-08:00

Sit in on the Lincoln press conference at the Detroit Auto Show and see C Concept, MKS and new 2010 MKT.

Unexpected Auto Show Musical (2010 Lincoln MKT)

2010-02-06T13:46:00.000-08:00

It seemed like just a typical day at the 2010 San Diego Auto Show. Audiences gathered around a 2010 Lincoln MKT, awaiting to hear if they had won a football signed by San Diego Chargers running back LaDainian Tomlinson. They never expected what came next...

Dare to do More (Lincoln Spotlight)

2010-02-06T13:41:00.000-08:00

Source: Youtube

Lincoln Press Conference at 2010 Detroit Auto Show

2010-02-06T13:33:00.000-08:00

The wraps came off of the 2011 Lincoln MKX with industry-exclusive technologies, world-class craftsmanship and power that doesn't sacrifice fuel economy. The new 2011Lincoln MKX further elevates the midsize luxury crossover. It will be the first vehicle on the road to envelop drivers in the MyFord/MyLincoln Touch infotainment experience.

Source: Youtube

Detroit 2010: Lincoln MKX gets facelift, MyLincoln Touch

2010-01-12T01:19:00.000-08:00

2011 Lincoln MKX

The final piece of the Lincoln puzzle is here. Meet the new 2011 MKX. And yes, it does look quite a bit like the MKT. Depending on where you stand vis-a-vis the current MKX, the visual difference is either just a change, or a much needed improvement. Most of us are siding with the latter, though we fully realize that many folks simply don't like the MKT. Bottom line, it is what is.

The really story is not the exterior - it's the interior. Specifically, the MKX is the first vehicle getting Ford's all new Minority Report-inspired (no, really) MyFord Touch system. Although in this application the futuristic navigation, entertainment, climate and phone system is called MyLincoln Touch. Hey, what's in a name.

There's more inside to greet you than just MyLincoln Touch, as the MKX features vastly improved materials than not only the previous car, but all other Lincolns. We touched, we felt and please trust us - the MKX is an nice, upscale place to be. Also, they've banished buttons. Literally, there aren't any on the center stack. Instead you're treated to a series of touch sensitive sliders. George Takei would be stoked. The best part: all this inner goodness will soon be making its way across the Lincoln lineup.

Click Here for Complete Article

Source: Autoblog

MORE LUXURY: GENUINE WALNUT APPOINTMENTS HIGHLIGHT NEW LINCOLN MKZ EXECUTIVE PACKAGE

2010-01-07T01:50:00.001-08:00

2010 Lincoln MKZ: The distinctive Lincoln style is readily apparent in the 2010 Lincoln MKZ

Executive Appearance Package for the 2010 Lincoln MKZ, available later this summer, features more genuine walnut wood appointments

Navigation System with Sirius Travel Link™ is included in the 2010 Lincoln MKZ Executive Appearance Package

The new 2010 Lincoln MKZ received a Top Safety Pick rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS)

DEARBORN, Mich., June 25, 2009 – A new trim level featuring additional wood appointments and unique trim has been added to the 2010 Lincoln MKZ, providing customers the opportunity to choose an even more luxurious model. Available in late summer, the new Executive Appearance Package offers more traditional luxury appointments and expands the range of Lincoln MKZ option packages.

Early sales of the 2010 Lincoln MKZ indicate there is indeed consumer appetite for well-equipped versions of the newest sedan from Lincoln.

"We are encouraged by the number of customers who are purchasing our luxury packages. The Executive Appearance Package gives customers yet another terrific option when considering the new Lincoln MKZ," said Greg Scott, Lincoln MKZ marketing manager. "With more wood finish and upgraded trim on the interior and five color choices on the exterior, this new package nicely complements the popular Sport Appearance Package."

Interior highlights of the Executive Appearance Package include:

Available in Dark Charcoal or Cashmere color
Luxury leather-trimmed seats
Unique door trim with stitching
Unique console armrest insert
Genuine Swirl Walnut wood instrument panel accents
Genuine Swirl Walnut wood console
Premium front and rear floor mats with the Lincoln star
Exterior color choices with the Executive Appearance Package include:

Tuxedo Black
White Platinum
Brilliant Silver
Sterling Gray
Sangria Red

Lincoln signature design

The new 2010 Lincoln MKZ was launched this past spring and features Lincoln signature design elements, including the split-wing grille and thinner wraparound headlamps for a wider, sportier look. The Lincoln MKZ's presence is enhanced by available 17-inch machined aluminum or chrome wheels or 18-inch polished aluminum wheels which are included in the Sport Appearance Package with sport-tuned suspension.

Inside, MKZ's cabin reflects an even more upscale look featuring genuine aluminum and wood depending on the trim package, an all-new instrument panel and detailed touches including new welcome lighting, chimes and tuxedo stitching on luxury Bridge of Weir leather-trimmed seats.

This world-renowned luxury leather from Scotland, pioneered on the classic Lincoln Continental Mark II and used on the Lincoln MKS, trims the MKZ seats. The MKZ leather is unembossed, allowing the natural beauty and character of the grain to shine through. The leather is milled for up to 12 hours to ensure a buttery soft feel.

Faster engine performance, strong fuel economy

The award-winning 3.5-liter V-6 Duratec engine powers the 2010 Lincoln MKZ, delivering 263 horsepower at 6,250 rpm and 249 ft.-lb. of torque at 4,500 rpm on regular gasoline while still remaining among the leaders in fuel economy in its segment with EPA-estimated 18 mpg city and 27 mpg highway for the front-wheel drive MKZ.

The 3.5-liter uses a compact, lightweight dual-overhead cam valvetrain for peak power and smooth operation at high rpms. This engine also incorporates intake variable cam timing to optimize valve timing for a smooth idle and an impressively broad torque curve with good power. Powertrain performance is improved dramatically, with 0-60 mph times dropping from 7.7 to 7.1 seconds.

A high 10.3:1 compression ratio and aluminum cylinder heads designed for high air flow and optimized combustion help complete the package, supporting the engine's ability to deliver great performance and fuel economy along with low emissions. The six-speed transmission is outfitted with lower early gears for better acceleration and taller high gears for better highway mileage.

The six-speed SelectShift Automatic™ transmission comes available in both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. Customers can select a manual mode for enhanced sportiness, with downshifts locked out to help protect the engine from over-revving. The "enhanced overdrive cancel" mode locks out the fifth and sixth gears, allows shifts at higher speed for more engine braking and downshifts for "grade assist" functionality.

Better ride comfort

The 2010 Lincoln MKZ was significantly revised and uniquely tuned for ride comfort. The rear suspension lower control arm attachment point was changed to move the roll center closer to the center of gravity, which improves ride-handling characteristics. The turning radius has been reduced as well. Also added is a new hydraulic variable-flow steering pump that changes the flow rate to give better response at higher speeds and ease parking efforts at low speeds.

The Lincoln MKZ's available All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system has been retuned for better traction and lower noise, vibration and harshness (NVH). The system uses an electro-mechanical clutch and employs two basic modes of torque transfer – pre-emptive torque (before wheel slip) and slip-control torque (after wheel slip). This dual system helps give the driver confidence in a variety of situations, while the suspension has been specially tuned to be more neutral when cornering.

The AWD system works in harmony with brake traction control to deliver more confidence to Lincoln MKZ customers. Ford's AdvanceTrac® Electronic Stability Control – standard on every new Lincoln MKZ – helps keep drivers in command as well.

The MKZ sport version includes special sport suspension tuning with stiffer springs and larger stabilizer bars, 18-inch Euroflange polished wheels, unique darkened grille, darkened headlamps and an interior with contrasting piping and special appliqués.

"The driving experience has been improved, delivering a better ride and vehicle control," said J.D. Shanahan, chief engineer. "Ride enhancements, a new sport package, new technologies, the signature Lincoln design and a strong quality story help the new Lincoln MKZ set a new standard in midsize luxury sedans."

Class-leading interior quietness

Refinements to the powertrain are complemented by improvements to cabin noise levels. Ford research shows the 2009 MKZ beats the 2009 model year Lexus ES350 and Acura TL in key interior quietness attributes such as road noise at 30 mph. For the 2010 model year, the Lincoln MKZ is even quieter.

NVH improvements include:

A new acoustic laminated windshield featuring a layer of sound-absorbent vinyl sandwiched between two sheets of glass to soften noise levels
Thicker rear backlight for improved wind noise
Improved body/door sealing to reduce wind noise
New expandable stuffers in the fenders and pillars
Constrained layer damping material on the entire floor to reduce road noise
An all-new acoustic headliner to further deaden interior noise
Technology and information at your fingertips
The new Lincoln MKZ is more than just a pretty face and striking new interior. New technology and convenience features help Lincoln's new midsize sedan stand out, too.

Available later this summer is the next generation of SYNC® with Traffic, Directions and Information.

This newest application provides personalized, real-time information to help drivers get to where they're going with information they need – new services come with no monthly subscription fees for the first three years to the original vehicle owner.

Other standard or available technologies on the 2010 Lincoln MKZ include:

Segment-exclusive, first-in-class Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®) with Cross Traffic Alert (CTA), which can help make navigating traffic and parking lots easier
Voice-Activated Navigation System with SIRIUS Travel Link™
Easy Fuel™ Capless Fuel-Filler
Keyless Entry Keypad
Reverse Camera System
Ambient Lighting System
THX® II Premium Certified Audio System with 5.1 Surround Sound
Rain-sensing wipers
Adaptive HID headlamps
SOS Post Crash Alert System™
Top safety rating from Insurance Institute for Highway Safety

The new Lincoln MKZ recently received a Top Safety Pick rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). To earn a Top Safety Pick rating, a vehicle must receive a rating of "good" in offset frontal impact, side impact and rear impact evaluations and offer electronic stability control. The structure of the Lincoln MKZ helps it withstand intrusion in many accidents, including the most common frontal and side impacts.

The tailor-welded B-pillars between the front and rear doorframes are designed to help channel energy below the level of the occupants. At the torso level and above, the structure helps prevent intrusion into the passenger compartment.

Front and side-protection elements on the Lincoln MKZ include:

First use on a Ford vehicle of dual-phase, high-strength steel rails on the front end;
Two energy absorbing foam blocks between the inner door panels and interior trim, aligned with the occupants' chest and hip;
Side-intrusion beams inside the door, anchored at the hinge and latch areas;
Tailor-welded steel in the B-pillar structure with extra thickness – nearly a quarter inch of solid steel – above the beltline; and
Front-seat side air bags for front occupants and side-curtain air bags for head protection in both rows.
The 2010 Lincoln MKZ carries a starting manufacturer's suggested retail price of $34,965, including destination and delivery, excluding tax, title and license fees.

Source: Ford

1955 Lincoln Futura Concept

2009-12-28T23:22:00.000-08:00

1955 Lincoln Futura Concept

The Lincoln Futura was a concept car designed by the Lincoln division of Ford Motor Company. It was built by Ghia entirely by hand in Italy at a cost of $250,000 and displayed on the auto show circuit in 1955.

Futura's styling was extravagantly impractical even by the standards of the '50s, with a double, clear-plastic canopy top, exaggerated hooded headlight pods, and very large, outward-canted tailfins at both ends of the vehicle. Nevertheless, the Futura had a complete powertrain and was fully operable in contrast to many show cars then and now. Its original color was white, and was one of the first Pearlescent color treatments, using ground pearl to achieve the paint effect. The Futura was powered by a 368 cubic inch Lincoln engine and powertrain; the chassis was that of a Lincoln Mark II.

The Futura was a success as a show car, garnering a great deal of favorable publicity for Ford. It was released as a model kit and a toy, and in a much more subdued form its headlight and tailfin motifs would appear on production Lincolns for 1956 and 1957. It even played a prominent part in a movie, 1959's It Started with a Kiss, starring Debbie Reynolds and Glenn Ford. For the movie, it was painted red, as the pearlescent finish did not photograph well.

After that, though, the car would logically have been forgotten and perhaps destroyed, as most show cars of that time were. However, it was somehow sold into the hands of George Barris, one of the great auto customizers. As the car was never titled and was therefore uninsurable, it was parked behind Barris' shop where it sat idle for several years and was allowed to deteriorate.

In 1966 Barris was requested to design a theme car for the Batman television series, Barris then contracted stylist Dean Jeffries to build a car for the show. Jeffries worked on the design and initial fabrication for the Batmobile, using a 1959 Cadillac, but when the studio wanted the car faster than he could deliver, he turned it back to George Barris. With the short notice, Barris thought the Futura might work well, and using Jeffries initial car, decided that its unusual winged shape would be an ideal starting point for the Batmobile. Barris hired Bill Cushenberry to do the metal modifications to the car.

Barris went on to build five duplicates for the show circuit, three of which are covered with a felt-like finish. For the filming of the Batman Series, Barris replaced the Lincoln frame and engine with 1966 Ford Galaxie parts.

External links:

LincolnFutura.com

A very comprehensive Futura page

It Started with a Kiss at Yahoo movies

Futura/Batmobile toys

George Barris interview

Original Batmobile at Barris' own website

Volo Auto Museum Hollywood collection page

First Look: Lincoln C Concept

2009-12-28T23:17:00.001-08:00

Forget the Continentals of your past, or the big, long rear-drive concepts of the early '00s. While BMW has proven that rear-wheel-drive c-segment size luxury works, with its 1 Series, Lincoln is turning next to the 2011 Ford Focus' platform for post-global warming luxury. To prepare us for a CAFE-friendly world, Lincoln rolled out the C concept (for c-segment, and so far, without an "MK" prefix) at Detroit.

Looking much like a Renault with Lincoln's "flying wing" '41 Continental retro cue grille, the C is about the length of the '11 Focus, but about 2.75-inches wider for three-abreast seating via two flat benches. Ford designers cite the '39 Lincoln, '56 Continental II and '61 Continental as inspiration. But the a-pillar is curved much like a Renault Espace's, and the c-pillar ends in a Clio-esque bustle trunk. While there's no tumblehome, a deep shoulderline accents the profile.

The stainless steel-like top is actually aluminum with a metalized paint, and the gray interior wood trim is recycled driftwood veneer.

The Lincoln C has more interior space than a '61 Continental, J Mays and Freeman Thomas proudly note. The engine, theoretically - Lincoln didn't open the hood -- is a planned 1.6-liter EcoBoost four with central direct injection, variable valve timing on both cams and an interesting stop/start system to shut down the engine for red lights and stop signs. Restarts use a fraction of the starter energy required for a cold start by injecting and igniting fuel in the cylinder closest to top-dead-center on the compression stroke. The six-speed, twin-clutch "Powershift" transmission uses more efficient dry clutches (Audi DSG's wet clutches require an oil pump). It gains 9-percent better fuel economy than a conventional automatic transmission, Ford says. Including some key weight savings, Ford expects the EcoBoost-powered C would get about 25-percent better fuel economy than a similar car with a 2.0-liter.

Inside, the C is a showcase for Ford's Microsoft Sync of the future, a two-way voice command system featuring avatar Eva, a kind of female HAL with a British accent and access to the Internet via the driver's mobile phone. Ford expects features like a navigation system that supplies the most fuel-efficient route (for when gas next breaches $4/gallon), restaurant reviews and the like will be the foundation for its future Sync systems. Anyway, the owner will be able to configure it to his or her preferences, much like on an Apple iPhone, and update it regularly with a thumb drive.

Other interior features include no b-pillar (which Mays insists is approaching production viability, even if the "suicide door" feature that accompanies it is only for show), a hubless steering wheel rendered in Apple-computer white plastic, thin-seat technology for better interior room (another near-production feature), hand-drawn floral patterns laser-etched into the otherwise stark white leather seats, weight- and height-sensing power head restraints, and stereo speakers in the headliner, which surrounds a Lincoln-symbol glass sunroof.

Thomas says the instrument panel, which includes a "privacy" screen to allow passengers to look at the Internet without distracting the driver, is "not a lot of separate parts, almost like an iPhone." (Domestic and foreign auto designers have evolved from evoking the translucent iMac in their designs at the beginning of the decade to talking about the iPod, and now the iPhone.)

North America design chief Peter Horbury says his favorite feature, though, is a device in the car's grille that recognizes other Lincoln Cs and automatically "winks" the left headlight, Mini Cooper-owner style. Question is, can Lincoln build a c-segment car with so much appeal that owners "wink" or wave at others voluntarily? We may have to ask that question again when Lincoln markets a c-segment car, in as little as two or three years.

Read more: Click Here

Source: Motortrend

FORD'S NEW ACTIVE PARK ASSIST AIMS TO CURB STRESS

2009-12-04T23:23:00.001-08:00

DEARBORN, Mich., June 3, 2009 – It's an everyday maneuver that can add stress and elevate blood pressure in novice and veteran drivers alike. It's parallel parking.

Active Park Assist, an all-new driver aide technology available in the distinctive new 2010 Lincoln MKT three-row luxury crossover vehicle, will address the "top 10" anxieties in the parallel parking process. They are:

Will I find a parking spot?
Will my vehicle fit?
Am I lined up correctly?
Did I "cut it" properly?
Am I in?
Am I too far from the curb?
Am I sticking out?
Am I too close in front or back?
Do I have to try again?
Will I be embarrassed?

How it Works

At the push of a single button on the Lincoln MKT center console, Active Park Assist initiates the parallel parking process.

Once the system is activated it begins scanning for an appropriate parking spot, eliminating anxiety number one. When a suitable space is detected an audible signal will sound and the cluster-mounted message center will display a space found notification.

Active Park Assist will coach the driver with a prompt when to stop, shift to reverse and let the system take over. Anxiety number two is eliminated as the system will not select an inappropriately sized space.

Anxieties numbers three and four are eliminated as Active Park Assist will calculate the appropriate trajectory, regardless of the distance between the Lincoln MKT and the vehicle parked in the space just ahead. Furthermore, the trajectory determined by the system will properly place the vehicle in the selected space.

Anxieties five through eight are addressed by Active Park Assist with the calculated trajectory, or the "cut it" element of the parallel parking maneuver. All steering is performed by the system, so the driver only needs to brake. Active Park Assist also properly positions the Lincoln MKT relative to the curb.

Anxiety number nine is addressed with coaching messages. If the vehicle is not positioned properly in the space, the system will continue to coach the driver for proper placement. The driver will shift and brake normally, but the system steers the vehicle throughout the maneuver.

Anxiety number ten is addressed by the system as Active Park Assist will park the vehicle swiftly and surely, every time. System accuracy will position the MKT properly, and embarrassment is thankfully avoided.

Active Park Assist is enabled by Electric Power Assist Steering (EPAS) which is standard on 2010 Ford vehicles equipped with the 3.5-liter EcoBoost™ V-6.

Active Park Assist is optional on the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6 equipped Lincoln MKT, on sale at Lincoln dealerships, late this summer.

For more information:
Active Park Assist Fact Sheet

Source: www.ford.com.

LINCOLN MKT EARNS 'TOP SAFETY PICK,' PUSHES NEW FRONTIER OF CRASH-AVOIDANCE TECHNOLOGIES

2009-12-04T23:20:00.000-08:00

SUMMARY:

The all-new 2010 Lincoln MKT three-row luxury crossover received a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS)
MKT offers a high level of crash protection – including state-of-the-art side air bags that are designed to deploy up to 30 percent earlier than traditional air bag systems – while offering a segment-first, forward collision warning system as part of Lincoln's push into new crash-avoidance technologies
MKT offers an array of standard driver-awareness features – including a first-in-class Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®) with Cross Traffic Alert (CTA)
Ford Motor Company has more IIHS Top Safety Pick ratings than any other automaker and more U.S. government five-star ratings than any brand

CONTEXT / BACKGROUND:

The all-new 2010 Lincoln MKT three-row crossover – arriving in dealerships now – is raising the bar not only on luxury, but also on safety after earning a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). To earn this designation, a vehicle must receive a rating of "good" in offset frontal-, side- and rear-impact evaluations and offer electronic stability control. The new MKT offers an array of standard crash-protection, crash-avoidance and driver-awareness features, and further solidifies Ford Motor Company's industry-leading number of Top Safety Picks.

DETAILS:

Lincoln is offering luxury crossover customers a fresh new choice with the 2010 Lincoln MKT, a three-row crossover that delivers the optimal blend of distinctive design, interior spaciousness and craftsmanship, fuel economy, and advanced driver aid and safety technologies.

The Lincoln MKT joins the two-row Lincoln MKX midsize premium crossover, the sporty Lincoln MKS luxury sedan launched in 2008 and the midsize Lincoln MKZ in earning coveted IIHS Top Safety Pick ratings, building on Ford Motor Company's safety leadership.

Technology under the skin

The Lincoln MKT features an advanced structural safety system that combines octagonal front frame rails, tunnel rails and support members that are designed to absorb and redirect crash forces away from the passenger compartment.

Lincoln MKT also includes Side Protection And Cabin Enhancement Architecture (SPACE®) to optimize side-impact occupant protection. The SPACE system integrates a hydroformed high-strength steel tube in the floor that runs the width of the vehicle from B-pillar to B-pillar and reinforcements along the rocker panels to help protect passengers in side-impact incidents.

Lincoln MKT also features Ford's enhanced Personal Safety System™, combining multiple technologies to tailor the air bag package and safety belt functions to the individual passenger and the accident circumstances. The system can identify variables, such as severity of the crash, weight of the individual passenger and safety belt usage to adjust air bag deployment force.

Additional Lincoln MKT safety technologies include:

Safety Canopy® is Ford's exclusive side-impact protection system employing side curtain air bags to help protect front and outboard rear passengers in both rollover and side-impact crashes.

Belt-Minder®, a reminder technology for driver and front seat passenger, takes over after the initial federally required safety belt reminder stops chiming to encourage usage of safety belts, the No. 1 life-saving device in automobiles.

SOS Post-Crash Alert System™ unlocks the vehicle doors and activates the horn and emergency flashers in the event air bags are deployed.

MyKey™ allows parents or other concerned owners to restrict certain Lincoln MKT features when in the hands of a MyKey driver. MyKey encourages safety belt usage, provides earlier low-fuel warnings, engages applicable driver aid systems, and sounds speed chimes at preset levels while limiting audio system volume and top vehicle speed.

Lincoln MKT also delivers abundant driver-awareness and security technologies including:

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) uses radar to detect moving vehicles immediately ahead and modify cruising speed if necessary.

Collision Warning with Brake Support, enabled by ACC, provides the driver with a "heads-up" display that flashes on the windshield when the system senses slower moving traffic ahead. If the driver doesn't respond, the system will pre-charge the brakes to prepare the vehicle for a more aggressive stop to help avoid some of the most common rear-end accidents.

SecuriCode™ Keyless Entry Keypad uses a touch-sensitive surface allowing the driver to enter a five-digit code to unlock the doors.

Adaptive Headlamps with standard High-Intensity Discharge (HID) Lamps enhance nighttime visibility. Sensors monitor Lincoln MKT speed and steering wheel input to engage headlamp movement to increase the driver's field of vision.

Auto High Beams coupled with Adaptive Headlamps enhance nighttime visibility by switching to high intensity when no other vehicles are in range.

Rain-Sensing Wipers use an optical sensing system to gauge precipitation and automatically activate and adjust the wipers.

Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®) with Cross Traffic Alert uses two multiple-beam radars in the rear quarter panels (one per side) for two different – but important – purposes. BLIS checks the defined blind spot zone, which is about 10 feet from the back of the bumper to the outside mirrors. When a vehicle is detected, an amber light, in the outside mirror of whichever side that vehicle is on, lights up. CTA notifies the driver of impending traffic when backing out of a parking spot and warns the driver when a vehicle is detected within three car widths of either side of the vehicle. As with BLIS, the driver is warned with a beep and light in the outside mirror on the side of the traffic.

Rear View Camera System uses the center stack-mounted touch/navigation screen for projection and activates upon reverse gear engagement.

Lincoln SYNC® is an award-winning voice-activated communications and entertainment system developed by Ford and Microsoft that fully integrates Bluetooth®-enabled mobile phones and digital media players into the vehicle. SYNC incorporates 911 Assist™, which can notify a local 911 emergency operator in the event of an air bag deployment when a cell phone is properly paired, turned on and connected to SYNC, and when the vehicle has battery power.

QUOTES:

"Earning a Top Safety Pick rating is great news because the Insurance Institute's tests are some of the most demanding conducted outside of our own laboratories, and customers increasingly rely on them when choosing a new vehicle."

1949 Lincoln Cosmopolitan

2009-11-18T22:32:00.001-08:00

1949 Lincoln Cosmopolitan

The first all-new postwar Lincolns were introduced in 1949 and were set apart from the 1948 models with a more streamlined appearance and recessed headlights. The top-of-the-line model was the Cosmopolitan and could be distinguished with its one-piece windshield and chrome spears along the front fenders.

Produced until the early 1950s, the Cosmopolitan was offered in four body styles: club coupe, town sedan, sport sedan, and convertible. Weighing over 4,400 pounds, the convertible was the heaviest model and was also the most expensive with a base price tag of $3,948. Only 1,230 convertibles were produced.

Standard features of the Cosmopolitan included power windows, power seats, and a three-speed manual transmission. It was powered by a 336.7 cubic-inch V-8 that produced 152 horsepower.

First Drive: 2010 Lincoln MKT EcoBoost has soul of a sports sedan, controversial

2009-11-06T04:46:00.000-08:00

2010 Lincoln MKT

In 1998, Lincoln's overall sales made it the number one luxury brand in America. The Navigator, Continental and Town Car weren't exactly world beaters – let alone an enthusiast's cup of Darjeeling, but the typical Lincoln buyer was getting precisely what he or she expected: soft, cozy, squishy cruisers for soft, squishy old people. In the decade that followed, Ford's U.S. luxury arm has seen about as much success as a modern day typewriter salesman. Mistakes have been made. The Blackwood. The Aviator. The LS. All big-time blunders – tragically so with the Romulan cloak-inspired design of the LS, as it was a pretty good car under that anonymous sheetmetal – and all consigned to history.

It's easier than ever to tell a Lincoln from 100 yards out.

Fast forward to 2009, and yesterday's gaffes have been replaced with a group of indecipherably-named vehicles that don't seem to be catching the eye of the car-buying public. The MKS, MKZ and MKX are nice enough, with tons of tech and luxury amenities, but America's buying public doesn't seem impressed.

Admittedly, the biggest reason Lincoln was kicking ass on the luxury sales charts last decade was the Navigator. It was big, it could haul heavy loads and it had an over-the-top style that affluent Americans were looking for at the time. Today's Lincoln lineup continues to feature the Navi, but the hefty SUV is no long the toast of the town and its massive girth and lousy fuel economy are borderline synonymous with PR losers like global warming and dependence on foreign oil. The 2010 Lincoln MKT is sized to replace the Navigator, but with the improved packaging, comfort and efficiency of a car-based crossover. We exercised a pair of EcoBoost-powered luxury barges through the twists and turns of Ann Arbor, Michigan to answer one simple question: does the 2010 Lincoln MKT have what it takes to become the spiritual successor to the Navigator and help shake the Lincoln brand of its decade-long sales slump? Hit the jump to find out.

Source: Autoblog Click Here For Article

Lincoln MKT earns Top Safety Pick from IIHS

2009-11-06T04:06:00.001-08:00

2010 Lincoln MKT

Ford has dumped all of its latest safety gadgets into the already structurally sound 2010 Lincoln MKT, and the Blue Oval's engineering labor appears to have paid off as the luxury crossover has just scored a Top Safety Pick from the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety. The Top Pick status of the 5,000 lb MKT doesn't come as a surprise, as it is mechanically identical to the well-regarded Ford Flex.

The MKT scored a "Good" rating in each category, including structure, injury measures and restraints. The IIHS added that "dummy movement was well controlled. After the dummy moved forward into the airbag, it rebounded into the seat without its head coming close to any stiff structure that could cause injury."

The Lincoln MKT comes with standard equipment like an advanced structural safety system that combines octagonal front frame rails, tunnel rails and support members that are designed to absorb and redirect crash forces away from the passenger compartment. Along with the usual safety suspects like side curtain airbags, Ford offers optional safety equipment like Adaptive Cruise Control, Collision Warning Brake Control and a Blind Spot Information system. Hit the jump to read the Ford press release.

Source: Ford]

PRESS RELEASE:

* The all-new 2010 Lincoln MKT three-row luxury crossover received a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS)

* MKT offers a high level of crash protection – including state-of-the-art side air bags that are designed to deploy up to 30 percent earlier than traditional air bag systems – while offering a segment-first, forward collision warning system as part of Lincoln's push into new crash-avoidance technologies

* MKT offers an array of standard driver-awareness features – including a first-in-class Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®) with Cross Traffic Alert (CTA)

* Ford Motor Company has more IIHS Top Safety Pick ratings than any other automaker and more U.S. government five-star ratings than any brand

CONTEXT / BACKGROUND:

The all-new 2010 Lincoln MKT three-row crossover – arriving in dealerships now – is raising the bar not only on luxury, but also on safety after earning a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). To earn this designation, a vehicle must receive a rating of "good" in offset frontal-, side- and rear-impact evaluations and offer electronic stability control. The new MKT offers an array of standard crash-protection, crash-avoidance and driver-awareness features, and further solidifies Ford Motor Company's industry-leading number of Top Safety Picks.

DETAILS:

Lincoln is offering luxury crossover customers a fresh new choice with the 2010 Lincoln MKT, a three-row crossover that delivers the optimal blend of distinctive design, interior spaciousness and craftsmanship, fuel economy, and advanced driver aid and safety technologies.

The Lincoln MKT joins the two-row Lincoln MKX midsize premium crossover, the sporty Lincoln MKS luxury sedan launched in 2008 and the midsize Lincoln MKZ in earning coveted IIHS Top Safety Pick ratings, building on Ford Motor Company's safety leadership.

Technology under the skin

The Lincoln MKT features an advanced structural safety system that combines octagonal front frame rails, tunnel rails and support members that are designed to absorb and redirect crash forces away from the passenger compartment.

Lincoln MKT also includes Side Protection And Cabin Enhancement Architecture (SPACE®) to optimize side-impact occupant protection. The SPACE system integrates a hydroformed high-strength steel tube in the floor that runs the width of the vehicle from B-pillar to B-pillar and reinforcements along the rocker panels to help protect passengers in side-impact incidents.

Lincoln MKT also features Ford's enhanced Personal Safety System™, combining multiple technologies to tailor the air bag package and safety belt functions to the individual passenger and the accident circumstances. The system can identify variables, such as severity of the crash, weight of the individual passenger and safety belt usage to adjust air bag deployment force.

Additional Lincoln MKT safety technologies include:

* Safety Canopy® is Ford's exclusive side-impact protection system employing side curtain air bags to help protect front and outboard rear passengers in both rollover and side-impact crashes.

* Belt-Minder®, a reminder technology for driver and front seat passenger, takes over after the initial federally required safety belt reminder stops chiming to encourage usage of safety belts, the No. 1 life-saving device in automobiles.

* SOS Post-Crash Alert System™unlocks the vehicle doors and activates the horn and emergency flashers in the event air bags are deployed.

* MyKey™ allows parents or other concerned owners to restrict certain Lincoln MKT features when in the hands of a MyKey driver. MyKey encourages safety belt usage, provides earlier low-fuel warnings, engages applicable driver aid systems, and sounds speed chimes at preset levels while limiting audio system volume and top vehicle speed.

Lincoln MKT also delivers abundant driver-awareness and security technologies including:

* Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) uses radar to detect moving vehicles immediately ahead and modify cruising speed if necessary.

* Collision Warning with Brake Support, enabled by ACC, provides the driver with a "heads-up" display that flashes on the windshield when the system senses slower moving traffic ahead. If the driver doesn't respond, the system will pre-charge the brakes to prepare the vehicle for a more aggressive stop to help avoid some of the most common rear-end accidents.

* SecuriCode™ Keyless Entry Keypad uses a touch-sensitive surface allowing the driver to enter a five-digit code to unlock the doors.

* Adaptive Headlamps with standard High-Intensity Discharge (HID) Lamps enhance nighttime visibility. Sensors monitor Lincoln MKT speed and steering wheel input to engage headlamp movement to increase the driver's field of vision.

* Auto High Beams coupled with Adaptive Headlamps enhance nighttime visibility by switching to high intensity when no other vehicles are in range.

* Rain-Sensing Wipers use an optical sensing system to gauge precipitation and automatically activate and adjust the wipers.

* Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®) with Cross Traffic Alert uses two multiple-beam radars in the rear quarter panels (one per side) for two different – but important – purposes. BLIS checks the defined blind spot zone, which is about 10 feet from the back of the bumper to the outside mirrors. When a vehicle is detected, an amber light, in the outside mirror of whichever side that vehicle is on, lights up. CTA notifies the driver of impending traffic when backing out of a parking spot and warns the driver when a vehicle is detected within three car widths of either side of the vehicle. As with BLIS, the driver is warned with a beep and light in the outside mirror on the side of the traffic.

* Rear View Camera System uses the center stack-mounted touch/navigation screen for projection and activates upon reverse gear engagement.

* Lincoln SYNC®is an award-winning voice-activated communications and entertainment system developed by Ford and Microsoft that fully integrates Bluetooth®-enabled mobile phones and digital media players into the vehicle. SYNC incorporates 911 Assist™, which can notify a local 911 emergency operator in the event of an air bag deployment when a cell phone is properly paired, turned on and connected to SYNC, and when the vehicle has battery power.

QUOTES:

"Earning a Top Safety Pick rating is great news because the Insurance Institute's tests are some of the most demanding conducted outside of our own laboratories, and customers increasingly rely on them when choosing a new vehicle."
– Sue Cischke
Group vice president of Ford Sustainability, Environment and Safety Engineering

"The MKT's array of advanced safety technologies raises the bar for luxury vehicles and pushes the new frontier of 'active' crash-avoidance features that help drivers avoid or reduce the severity of accidents. In the unfortunate event of an accident, the MKT offers a high level of crash protection, including leading crash-safety ratings such as the IIHS Top Safety Pick."
– Steve Kozak
Chief engineer, Ford Safety Systems

"Not only is the all-new Lincoln MKT Top Safety-rated, it is packed with standard luxury features and an array of state-of-the-art technologies, and is unsurpassed in its segment for highway fuel economy."
– Kate Pearce
Lincoln MKT marketing manager

About Ford Motor Company

Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 201,000 employees and about 90 plants worldwide, the company's automotive brands include Ford, Lincoln, Mercury and Volvo. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford's products, please visit www.ford.com.

What Happens To Your Car Payments If You Die?

2009-11-06T03:55:00.000-08:00

Few people like to think about that great parking lot in the sky, but the fact is, every one of us is going to run out of gas sooner or later. Our descendants/heirs/kids/next of kin will hopefully see to a proper sendoff for us, but what about the ride sitting in the driveway that we still owe a bundle on? Are descendants obligated to make car payments on leases and loans for cars they don’t own and haven’t signed any contracts for? We asked key auto industry people to state official policies.

“In the event an automotive loan customer/co-buyer/co-lessee passes away,” says Tony Sapienza, a Global Communications Manager for GMAC, Chrysler’s auto lender, “The first step is that GMAC will ask that the family or Power of Attorney provide us with a copy of the Power of Attorney and death certificate. We also advise family or POA for the customer to continue making payments on the vehicle as they communicate with us how they’d like to proceed.”

Sapienza says heirs aren’t officially on the hook to foot the balance of the loan.

“There are several options," said Sapienza. "[This includes the] payoff of the vehicle, the family assuming payments if they so desire or the family voluntarily surrendering the vehicle if they determine they do not need or can’t afford it.”

Of course, finance companies being finance companies, none of the proffered options include a hug and a softly spoken, “Money isn’t everything. Take a month to think about it and call us when you’re ready---we know this is a difficult time for you.”

Justin Leach, a spokesperson for Toyota Financial Services, explains how an estate can ultimately be responsible.

“If the family wants to keep the vehicle, they can continue, of course, to make the car payments," Leach said. "If they don’t want it, they can return it, we’ll sell the vehicle at auction and apply the proceeds against what’s owed. If they owed $12,000 and we sell it for $10,000, for example, one of our probate attorneys will bill the estate for the balance.”

Leach recommends planning ahead.

“At the time of purchase, some customers will get Credit Life Disability Insurance, which takes care of outstanding balances," he said. "They pay it off in the event of a death and you get to keep the car. It obviously depends on what the family wants to do, but it isn’t too complicated, really---keep it or return it. Hopefully they’ve bought good insurance and it takes care of it for them.”

Leach also notes current policies have changed with the times.

“Some time ago you could just bring a car back,” he said. “And some companies would just eat the difference and not go after the difference in court. It’s not like that anymore.”

Insurance payments have to be thought of as well.

“If an insured dies, coverage will be provided until the end of the policy period for anyone covered under the policy at the time of the insureds," said Krissy Posey, an Allstate spokesperson. "A spouse has a duty to notify us whenever someone on the policy needs to be removed, and if a friend is acting as the insured’s legal representative, he/she may be covered under the policy until the end of the premium period.”

Final (ahem) word? Plan ahead for your own eventual destination.

Source: Autos Aol

MORE LUXURY: GENUINE WALNUT APPOINTMENTS HIGHLIGHT NEW LINCOLN MKZ EXECUTIVE PACKAGE

2009-10-15T10:49:00.001-07:00

2010 Lincoln MKZ: The distinctive Lincoln style is readily apparent in the 2010 Lincoln MKZ

Executive Appearance Package for the 2010 Lincoln MKZ, available later this summer, features more genuine walnut wood appointments

Navigation System with Sirius Travel Link™ is included in the 2010 Lincoln MKZ Executive Appearance Package

The new 2010 Lincoln MKZ received a Top Safety Pick rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS)

DEARBORN, Mich., June 25, 2009 – A new trim level featuring additional wood appointments and unique trim has been added to the 2010 Lincoln MKZ, providing customers the opportunity to choose an even more luxurious model. Available in late summer, the new Executive Appearance Package offers more traditional luxury appointments and expands the range of Lincoln MKZ option packages.

Early sales of the 2010 Lincoln MKZ indicate there is indeed consumer appetite for well-equipped versions of the newest sedan from Lincoln.

"We are encouraged by the number of customers who are purchasing our luxury packages. The Executive Appearance Package gives customers yet another terrific option when considering the new Lincoln MKZ," said Greg Scott, Lincoln MKZ marketing manager. "With more wood finish and upgraded trim on the interior and five color choices on the exterior, this new package nicely complements the popular Sport Appearance Package."

Interior highlights of the Executive Appearance Package include:

Available in Dark Charcoal or Cashmere color
Luxury leather-trimmed seats
Unique door trim with stitching
Unique console armrest insert
Genuine Swirl Walnut wood instrument panel accents
Genuine Swirl Walnut wood console
Premium front and rear floor mats with the Lincoln star
Exterior color choices with the Executive Appearance Package include:

Tuxedo Black
White Platinum
Brilliant Silver
Sterling Gray
Sangria Red

Lincoln signature design

The new 2010 Lincoln MKZ was launched this past spring and features Lincoln signature design elements, including the split-wing grille and thinner wraparound headlamps for a wider, sportier look. The Lincoln MKZ's presence is enhanced by available 17-inch machined aluminum or chrome wheels or 18-inch polished aluminum wheels which are included in the Sport Appearance Package with sport-tuned suspension.

Inside, MKZ's cabin reflects an even more upscale look featuring genuine aluminum and wood depending on the trim package, an all-new instrument panel and detailed touches including new welcome lighting, chimes and tuxedo stitching on luxury Bridge of Weir leather-trimmed seats.

This world-renowned luxury leather from Scotland, pioneered on the classic Lincoln Continental Mark II and used on the Lincoln MKS, trims the MKZ seats. The MKZ leather is unembossed, allowing the natural beauty and character of the grain to shine through. The leather is milled for up to 12 hours to ensure a buttery soft feel.

Faster engine performance, strong fuel economy

The award-winning 3.5-liter V-6 Duratec engine powers the 2010 Lincoln MKZ, delivering 263 horsepower at 6,250 rpm and 249 ft.-lb. of torque at 4,500 rpm on regular gasoline while still remaining among the leaders in fuel economy in its segment with EPA-estimated 18 mpg city and 27 mpg highway for the front-wheel drive MKZ.

The 3.5-liter uses a compact, lightweight dual-overhead cam valvetrain for peak power and smooth operation at high rpms. This engine also incorporates intake variable cam timing to optimize valve timing for a smooth idle and an impressively broad torque curve with good power. Powertrain performance is improved dramatically, with 0-60 mph times dropping from 7.7 to 7.1 seconds.

A high 10.3:1 compression ratio and aluminum cylinder heads designed for high air flow and optimized combustion help complete the package, supporting the engine's ability to deliver great performance and fuel economy along with low emissions. The six-speed transmission is outfitted with lower early gears for better acceleration and taller high gears for better highway mileage.

The six-speed SelectShift Automatic™ transmission comes available in both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. Customers can select a manual mode for enhanced sportiness, with downshifts locked out to help protect the engine from over-revving. The "enhanced overdrive cancel" mode locks out the fifth and sixth gears, allows shifts at higher speed for more engine braking and downshifts for "grade assist" functionality.

Better ride comfort

The 2010 Lincoln MKZ was significantly revised and uniquely tuned for ride comfort. The rear suspension lower control arm attachment point was changed to move the roll center closer to the center of gravity, which improves ride-handling characteristics. The turning radius has been reduced as well. Also added is a new hydraulic variable-flow steering pump that changes the flow rate to give better response at higher speeds and ease parking efforts at low speeds.

The Lincoln MKZ's available All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system has been retuned for better traction and lower noise, vibration and harshness (NVH). The system uses an electro-mechanical clutch and employs two basic modes of torque transfer – pre-emptive torque (before wheel slip) and slip-control torque (after wheel slip). This dual system helps give the driver confidence in a variety of situations, while the suspension has been specially tuned to be more neutral when cornering.

The AWD system works in harmony with brake traction control to deliver more confidence to Lincoln MKZ customers. Ford's AdvanceTrac® Electronic Stability Control – standard on every new Lincoln MKZ – helps keep drivers in command as well.

The MKZ sport version includes special sport suspension tuning with stiffer springs and larger stabilizer bars, 18-inch Euroflange polished wheels, unique darkened grille, darkened headlamps and an interior with contrasting piping and special appliqués.

"The driving experience has been improved, delivering a better ride and vehicle control," said J.D. Shanahan, chief engineer. "Ride enhancements, a new sport package, new technologies, the signature Lincoln design and a strong quality story help the new Lincoln MKZ set a new standard in midsize luxury sedans."

Class-leading interior quietness

Refinements to the powertrain are complemented by improvements to cabin noise levels. Ford research shows the 2009 MKZ beats the 2009 model year Lexus ES350 and Acura TL in key interior quietness attributes such as road noise at 30 mph. For the 2010 model year, the Lincoln MKZ is even quieter.

NVH improvements include:

A new acoustic laminated windshield featuring a layer of sound-absorbent vinyl sandwiched between two sheets of glass to soften noise levels

Thicker rear backlight for improved wind noise

Improved body/door sealing to reduce wind noise

New expandable stuffers in the fenders and pillars

Constrained layer damping material on the entire floor to reduce road noise

An all-new acoustic headliner to further deaden interior noise

Technology and information at your fingertips

The new Lincoln MKZ is more than just a pretty face and striking new interior. New technology and convenience features help Lincoln's new midsize sedan stand out, too. Available later this summer is the next generation of SYNC® with Traffic, Directions and Information.

This newest application provides personalized, real-time information to help drivers get to where they're going with information they need – new services come with no monthly subscription fees for the first three years to the original vehicle owner.

Other standard or available technologies on the 2010 Lincoln MKZ include:

Segment-exclusive, first-in-class Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®) with Cross Traffic Alert (CTA), which can help make navigating traffic and parking lots easier
Voice-Activated Navigation System with SIRIUS Travel Link™

Easy Fuel™ Capless Fuel-Filler

Keyless Entry Keypad

Reverse Camera System

Ambient Lighting System

THX® II Premium Certified Audio System with 5.1 Surround Sound

Rain-sensing wipers

Adaptive HID headlamps

SOS Post Crash Alert System™

Top safety rating from Insurance Institute for Highway Safety

The new Lincoln MKZ recently received a Top Safety Pick rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). To earn a Top Safety Pick rating, a vehicle must receive a rating of "good" in offset frontal impact, side impact and rear impact evaluations and offer electronic stability control. The structure of the Lincoln MKZ helps it withstand intrusion in many accidents, including the most common frontal and side impacts.

The tailor-welded B-pillars between the front and rear doorframes are designed to help channel energy below the level of the occupants. At the torso level and above, the structure helps prevent intrusion into the passenger compartment.

Front and side-protection elements on the Lincoln MKZ include:

First use on a Ford vehicle of dual-phase, high-strength steel rails on the front end;

Two energy absorbing foam blocks between the inner door panels and interior trim, aligned with the occupants' chest and hip;

Side-intrusion beams inside the door, anchored at the hinge and latch areas;

Tailor-welded steel in the B-pillar structure with extra thickness – nearly a quarter inch of solid steel – above the beltline; and
Front-seat side air bags for front occupants and side-curtain air bags for head protection in both rows.

The 2010 Lincoln MKZ carries a starting manufacturer's suggested retail price of $34,965, including destination and delivery, excluding tax, title and license fees.

Lincoln Custom

2009-09-01T05:29:00.000-07:00

The Lincoln Custom was a custom limousine and long-wheelbase touring sedan from Ford's Lincoln luxury division, manufactured only in 1941 and 1942. It was a replacement for the large Model K Lincolns (produced from 1934-1939) and earlier luxury cars that had been well-known and respected through the 1920's and 1930's.

The Lincoln Custom was based on the Lincoln Zephyr, a smaller, unit-bodied, mid-range priced vehicle introduced in 1937 with a smaller 292 cu. inch V-12 (based on the Ford V-8). This car competed with the smaller Packard 110, Packard 120 and Cadillac Series 60 and La Salle; smaller cars introduced in the mid-30's to a shrinking luxury car market. For example, the mighty Lincoln Model K sold only 3024 in the first year of its introduction in 1934 and only 133 units in 1939, the last year of production. 1940 saw only the Zephyr and the ultra-high priced Continental carrying the Lincoln name.

The wheelbase of the Lincoln Custom was 138 inches compared to the Zephyr's 125. Both vehicles used the same V-12 engine that was enlarged for 1942 to 305 cubic inches (130 horsepower). The engine was the weakest point of the 1942 models, being very prone to overheating and premature wear. The 305 cubic inch version was reduced to the 292 inch (120 horsepower) version after World War II in an attempt to promote longevity. The V-12 was the only engine used in Lincolns until the totally new 1949 models came out with a flathead V-8 based on a Ford truck engine.

The 168H (1941) and 268H (1942) Lincoln Custom featured two models: the Model 31 eight- passenger sedan and the model 32 eight-passenger limousine. Differences included a division window and different front seat upholstery for the limousine. Both utilized a 3-speed transmission with Borg-Warner overdrive. A small number were modified by the few custom coach builders left in the United States before the was. An interesting fact is that the 1942 models introduced power windows to the luxury car field; electric and hydro-electric powered limousine dividers having previously been offered.

Specifications were as follows:

1941 - Model 31 Sedan, 4250 lbs., $2750, 355 built

Model 32 Limousine, 4270 lbs., $2836, 295 built
1942 - Model 31 Sedan, 4380 lbs., $2950, 47 built

Model 32 Limousine, 4400 lbs., $3075, 66 built

For 1942, the Zephyr-based waterfall grill was changed to a broad full-width grill that extended above and below the hood and was also used in the 1946-1948 models (Lincoln sedan and Lincoln Continental). These changes were undoubtedly due to the major Cadillac and Packard grill design changes during these immediate pre-war years, whose production and sales far outpaced Lincoln.

After World War II, production of these vehicles was not resumed. The former Zephyr became the only Lincoln sedan and was available in both standard and DeLuxe versions. The famous Lincoln Continental remained as a limited production, very expensive (and not very reliable) semi-custom offering from the luxury division of Ford Motor Company. For 1949, a major revamp of the entire Lincoln line was made, eliminating the slant-back Zephyr and custom Contintental and introducing relatively modern V-8 power.

A special 1942 limousine was provided to the White House for the President's use. This car weighed more than 7000 lbs. and was refitted with a 1946 grill clip after the war for modernization. Cadillac and Lincoln vied for visibility and prestige by supplying limousines and other special vehicles to the White House (generally by means of a $1.00 per year or other low-cost lease arrangement). Packard and Chrysler were rarely able to penetrate this exclusive market.

'73 Lincoln Continental 'Thunder Road'

2009-08-16T05:05:00.000-07:00

"Thunder Road" took 2000 man-hours and $140K to create. Built by famous hot rod enthusiast, John Withers. One of the most desired customs in history. Custom fabricated body, interior, audio (karaoke, synthesizers, amp, etc.), motor (Ford 460 Big Block) and paint (6 clear coat layers). Guaranteed to get more attention than anything out there.

Source: Hotrod Hotline

'39 Lincoln Zephyr Sedan Delivery with matching Harley ~

2009-08-16T04:54:00.000-07:00

The DECO LINER 1939 Lincoln sedan delivery with a matching Harley Davidson transported inside it took three years to build. Lincoln Zephyrs were never made in a sedan delivery body style, so DECO RIDES created one based on the design of the famed “SCRAPE” Lincoln Zephyr coupe that sold at auction to the Petersen Museum in 1999 for $275,000. Starting with a new DECO RIDES fiberglass Zephyr sedan delivery body, the unique front wheel drive chassis was designed and built by Gary Brown in Indianapolis. BROWN’s METAL MODS did the majority of the construction of the car. The concept of the car and bike was conceived by Terry Cook.
See it work on You Tube. Go to BACK DOOR HOG.

To fit the bike inside, it required the use of a front wheel drive platform to eliminate the rear differential so a minimum height rear floor could be attained to house a 39.5-inch tall motorcycle. Because a low cross member was required for a 9-foot long ramp holding a lowered, custom bike to fit inside, for rear suspension Gary chose a Fat Man Fabrications front suspension setup with Air Ride Technologies air bags. Short tie rods attached to the frame prevent the spindles from steering in the rear. A nine foot long polished aluminum U-channel ramp, powered by an electric motor that turns an equally long threaded screw, moves in and out of the back of the car at the touch of a switch. The bike is rolled onto the ramp, strapped in position, and the ramp is electrically moved into the car.

Brown chose the mid 90’s Chevy S-10/Blazer or GMC Jimmy/S-15 four wheel drive as the basis for the chassis. The rear half of the S-10 frame, the driveshaft and the 4WD rear were eliminated, the rear of the transfer case was sealed off and the V-6 was replaced with a new 350 Chevy small block V-8 crate motor that bolted right up to the rebuilt Chevy 700R4 automatic transmission. Brown fabricated a new rear half of the chassis.

Cook feels this car presents two new concepts to the rodding world. He insists it is not about the bike, it is about the concept of the bike in the car. The second is the decorative exterior metal trim. Actually this is not a new concept as mid-30’s Paris custom coach built cars used ornate metal trim. Terry is an admitted junkie of the work of the late Jacques Saouchik and Guiseppi Figoni, and the Brightwork on this car reflects their 1930’s era art deco designs. Pro panel beater Tommy Caruso of CONTOUR METALSHAPING in Plainfield, NJ hammered the majority of the steel that decorates the exterior of the delivery. Cook and Caruso worked together to lay out the designs in masking tape. It was then transferred to chipboard patterns and then to sheets of 19 gauge .040 cold rolled steel. Tommy hand shaped the contour of each piece. Despite the trim bridging the bottom of the front fender wheel well openings, the tires are able to steer lock to lock. Cost of the exterior trim and chrome plating alone exceeded $35,000.

Another metal man involved in the project was Denny Jamison of AUTOMOTIVE HAMMER ART in Gasoline Alley in Indianapolis. After Juan “Motyme” Rice of Chicago started the ’92 Harley Sportster construction, Cook designed and Denny hand shaped both the streamlined aluminum body for DECO SCOOT as well as the metal trim for the bike and the back door of the delivery. Chrome plating for the trim was done by The FINISHING TOUCH of Chicago. Juan Rice also fabricated the three matching tail light lenses for the car and bike by hand from 2 x 2 x 12 blocks of clear Lucite.

Strader’s Auto Interiors of Greenwood, DE used silver and black naugahyde to do the panels below the beltline. The bucket seats are from a Viper and the front fender of the bike serves as an armrest when the bike is tucked inside the car.

Brown used one pair of linear actuators (electric screw jacks) to raise and lower the hood while a second pair operate the rear door. Brown’s Metal Mods not only engineered and built the entire car and hand a hand in the bike, they also did all the bodywork and paint using RM Carizzma True Violet pearl pearlescent purple The headliner is painted suede Matte Uno Fed-X purple by RM. Because the fiberglass DECO RIDES sedan delivery body comes with a smooth inner fiberglass liner, the upper rear quarter panes and headliner were painted rather than upholstered. One nice design feature of the inner body is the streamlined shape of the inner wheel well humps. Another point of interest is the 1960-’62 Chrysler 300 “goldfish bowl” instrument cluster.

Source: Hotrod Hotline

'61 Lincoln Continental Convertible

2009-08-16T04:35:00.000-07:00

Awesome new pearl blue paint
Beautiful chrome and trim.
Original excellent condition leather interior.
New dark blue Mercedes Benz canvas convertible top, all mechanisms just rebuilt.
All power options.
AC Custom hidden sound system, Satellite Radio.
Stock 430ci V-8 engine w/automatic transmission.
New dual exhaust system with Flowmaster mufflers.
Professionally lowered.
These Lincoln Continental Convertibles are becoming highly collectible

Source: Hotrod Hotline

1952 Lincoln Cosmopolitan

2009-08-16T04:23:00.000-07:00

Source: Hotrod Hotline

Lincoln MKR Concept Car from NAIAS

2009-08-01T04:34:00.001-07:00

Classic 1932 Lincoln Zephyr

2009-08-01T04:30:00.000-07:00

1956 Lincoln Continental Mark II

2009-08-01T03:52:00.000-07:00

Drive The Lincoln Difference

2009-07-31T09:13:00.000-07:00

Why Lincoln. Why Now.

2009-07-31T09:02:00.000-07:00

If you've been considering trading up to the luxury and technology available in a new Lincoln, now would be a great time to act. If you have already purchased from us, we appreciate your business. Please pass this offer to family and friends.

Why Lincoln.

Lincoln has the luxury you deserve and the technology you expect.

Why Now.

The government's CARS program, better known as "Cash for Clunkers," is offering a $3,500 or $4,500 incentive when you trade in a qualifying vehicle at our dealership. We are your Cash for Clunkers Specialist, and no one makes it easier to recycle your ride.

Please contact us immediately; you may also be eligible for THOUSANDS of dollars in private offers this month that are compatible with all rebates and incentives.

This is a government program, and rules are subject to change. Vouchers are available at participating dealers and are limited. Rebate varies based on vehicle age, ownership length and old/new vehicle fuel economy. Not all vehicles qualify. Offer good while voucher supplies last or until 11/1/09. See cars.gov or ford.com for complete details.

Hi-Tech Car Door

2009-07-20T06:19:00.000-07:00

Source: YouTube

Lincoln MK9

2009-07-01T04:01:00.000-07:00

In 2004, car maker Lincoln introduced two concept car models intended to fill the void left in the Lincoln line-up by the Mark Series which was discontinued in 1998. These models were the Mark X and MK9. Concerning the heritage of the Mark the Ford Motor Company press release states, "Throughout its history, Lincoln has used the Mark name to signal a truly special vehicle... the 1956 Continental Mark II... became a classic for its high quality... The 1969 Mark III was Lincoln's most successful new model at the time, selling more than 30,000 units."

Lincoln MK9

The Lincoln MK9 was a Lincoln concept car first showcased in 2004. The vehicle hinted at a future comeback of a Lincoln Personal luxury car. The MK9 was a follow-on vehicle from the 2003 Lincoln Navicross concept, with similar styling cues.

The MK9 kicked off Lincoln's new naming convention of using letter and number combinations while hinting at a continuation of the Lincoln Mark series. While the naming system is similar to that of Mercedes-Benz or BMW, it does not contain any references regrading the vehicle's engine size or generation.

The Concept car features Lincoln's hallmark waterfall grille with the Lincoln star at its center. Two chrome accents on top of the vehicle's left and right shoulder run the entire length of the car. Chrome accented air vents are located near the doors on the front fenders.

The interior is flushed with lacquered wood and leather. Dark Cherry wood is used for the floor, while white leather is used for the headliner. The seats are models after the "Eames Lounge Chair" from the 1950s and are trimmed in red leather.

Lincoln Mark X

The 2004 concept Lincoln Mark X (pronounced Mark 10) was based on a "Lincolnized" 2004 Ford Thunderbird body design and chassis, with a folding hard top replacing the Thunderbird's convertible top and optional one-piece removable hard roof. It introduced the new fine lace-like "egg crate" chrome grille configuration characteristic of future Lincoln vehicles, though it shared some of its other design elements with the MK9.

The Mark X concept model features a convertible panoramic glass roof. The interior was also based on a "Lincolnized" version of that in the standard Thunderbird (which in turn is derived from the Lincoln LS) - which differentiates it from the MK9 interior. The Mark X's interior is, according to Ford Motor Company's press release, "dressed in Lime Sorbet with white Corian accents, polished aluminum, dark chrome, natural grain leather seating surfaces, plush sheepskin flooring and tailored tone-on-tone stitching throughout. Its four-spoke, power-adjustable steering wheel also is leather wrapped."

The Mark X was 185" long, and featured 21" chrome alloy wheels, and 3.9 L V8 with 280hp.

External links:

Lincoln Mark MK9

IGN website summary of Mark X

Lincoln Concept Vehicles - Previous Auto Show Photographs (2003-2006)

The Crisp, Edgy Lincoln Navicross Concept

2009-06-19T11:36:00.000-07:00

When two of your three brands are damaged, concern for your company’s long term viability is warranted. Though the Ford brand itself has taken its lumps, Ford’s truck line up and a new fleet of cars has made Ford desirable again. Were that true for the company’s Mercury and Lincoln brands.

Mercury, in particular, has little reason for continuance for one simple reason: not a single model is anything but a rebadged Ford. Unfortunately, the same can be said for Lincoln as the Navigator, MKZ, and MKS are copies of Ford models. But in the case of Lincoln, at least Ford took some care to lux out these “near luxury” models.

The tide for Ford appears to be turning thanks to the sell of of three premium brands: Aston Martin, Jaguar, and LandRover. Jaguar, in particular, represented a financial black hole as FoMoCo poured billions of dollars into the brand while neglecting Mercury and Lincoln.

Though Mercury is still without solid evidence that it should survive for the long term, Lincoln is finally making a case for its survival. Indeed, sales are up and with the all-new MKS making its debut in Summer 2008, Lincoln may finally have a model worthy enough to take on Cadillac.

The concept Navicross made its debut at the 2003 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) and helped usher in the 2006 MKS concept which also was first unveiled in Detroit.

You may not like the looks of the Navicross or wonder how the vehicle will fit in with Ford’s plans for Lincoln, but rest assured that this vehicle or something like it will probably come to fruition. Now that Ford management has its sense back and has tossed its three money losing premium brands, attention can be given to back Lincoln.

Note the rear hinge for the rear doors — this vehicle evokes the “suicide door” theme of the mid-1960s era Continental. The truck compartment is interesting, somewhat like a hatch with a rear seat that folds flat.

The interior colors are a bit over the top for my tastes, but the center stack is clean looking — do you see the console area for the front passenger? This trend I believe will explode over the next few years as full-fledged entertainment and internet systems become standard on most vehicles.

Kudos for the Lincoln design team for creating the Navicross, a crossover sedan of sorts. Lincoln needs new and fresh material to attract buyers and the Navicross could be the right step in that direction.

Lincoln Premiere

2009-06-19T11:26:00.000-07:00

1956 Lincoln Premiere coupe

Lincoln Premiere 1956

The Lincoln Premiere was a luxury car sold by Ford Motor Company's Lincoln-Mercury division. It was produced in both 2 and 4 door versions both seating 6 people. A limousine version was also offered, which had the same wheelbase as the sedan but its cabin extended further back, allowing for more space for rear passengers, plus a division window. The Premiere was sold in the 1956 to 1960 model years, inclusive, and was positioned below the company's Continental and above the Capri. The vehicle featured a 6.0 L V8 and was approximately 223" (5664 mm) long. The vehicle weighed 4357 lb (1976.3 kg) and had a price tag of approximately $4,600 in 1956, which equals roughly $31,730 in 2005 dollars.

The Premiere was known for its stylish exterior, high-grade interior and some unique features. For example, when equipped with optional "factory air conditioning," the vents were located overhead, much like those in an aircraft. The cool air was directed to the roof via a pair of clear plastic ducts visible through the rear window at each side, connecting upward from the rear package tray.

Lincoln Futura

2009-06-19T11:14:00.000-07:00

1955 Lincoln Futura Concept

The Lincoln Futura was a concept car designed by the Lincoln division of Ford Motor Company. It was built by Ghia entirely by hand in Italy at a cost of $250,000 and displayed on the auto show circuit in 1955.

Futura's styling was extravagantly impractical even by the standards of the '50s, with a double, clear-plastic canopy top, exaggerated hooded headlight pods, and very large, outward-canted tailfins at both ends of the vehicle. Nevertheless, the Futura had a complete powertrain and was fully operable in contrast to many show cars then and now. Its original color was white, and was one of the first Pearlescent color treatments, using ground pearl to achieve the paint effect. The Futura was powered by a 368 cubic inch Lincoln engine and powertrain; the chassis was that of a Lincoln Mark II.

The Futura was a success as a show car, garnering a great deal of favorable publicity for Ford. It was released as a model kit and a toy, and in a much more subdued form its headlight and tailfin motifs would appear on production Lincolns for 1956 and 1957. It even played a prominent part in a movie, 1959's It Started with a Kiss, starring Debbie Reynolds and Glenn Ford. For the movie, it was painted red, as the pearlescent finish did not photograph well.

After that, though, the car would logically have been forgotten and perhaps destroyed, as most show cars of that time were. However, it was somehow sold into the hands of George Barris, one of the great auto customizers. As the car was never titled and was therefore uninsurable, it was parked behind Barris' shop where it sat idle for several years and was allowed to deteriorate.

In 1966 Barris was requested to design a theme car for the Batman television series, Barris then contracted stylist Dean Jeffries to build a car for the show. Jeffries worked on the design and initial fabrication for the Batmobile, using a 1959 Cadillac, but when the studio wanted the car faster than he could deliver, he turned it back to George Barris.[1] With the short notice, Barris thought the Futura might work well, and using Jeffries initial car, decided that its unusual winged shape would be an ideal starting point for the Batmobile. Barris hired Bill Cushenberry to do the metal modifications to the car.

Barris went on to build five duplicates for the show circuit, three of which are covered with a felt-like finish. For the filming of the Batman Series, Barris replaced the Lincoln frame and engine with 1966 Ford Galaxie parts.

External links:

LincolnFutura.com

A very comprehensive Futura page

George Barris interview

Original Batmobile at Barris' own website

Volo Auto Museum Hollywood collection page

Speed Camera's Appearing On U.S. Roads

2009-06-03T08:43:00.001-07:00

Coming Soon to a Freeway Near You?

by Craig Howie | AOL Autos [Source]

You may already have seen an ominous looking radar and camera perched atop a traffic light in your neighborhood. And almost all drivers have seen a patrol car cruising a freeway looking for speeders, or a law-enforcement officer standing at the side of a road wielding a radar gun. But most have yet to see a freeway speed camera, which are common in Europe but currently are operated in just two U.S. states. Opponents and backers of speed cameras both suggest that eventually speed cameras will become the norm on US freeways. But just how likely is a nationwide roll-out? And what factors stand in the way? We take a look.

Sponsoring Legislation In Maryland

Maryland's governor, Martin O'Malley, signed into law on May 19 Senate Bill 277, allowing the use of speed cameras in highway work zones and within a half-mile radius of schools, which means that they can be placed on freeways under these conditions. Maryland is only the second state behind Arizona to codify the use of freeway speed cameras into law. Hawaii piloted a program but dropped it, and similar programs near San Jose, Calif., and in southern Florida were dismantled after they were found to be operating outside of state law. Maryland's law takes effect from Oct. 1.

Sean Adamec, the governor's spokesman, responded to our inquiries.

"Maryland is in a unique position," Adamec said. "A pilot program in Montgomery shows it worked; it lowered incidences of fatalities, crashing and speeding and made neighborhoods safer. It's safer for kids, road workers and it's been shown to work based on evidence. The point of them isn't to raise money but to catch speeders and that in turn makes neighborhoods safer.

"We wouldn't propose any tax on motorists traveling at safe speeds. If it was revenue rising we would've done it years ago, [but cameras] slow people down so they don't need to levy so many fines. Of course there is a financial impact to make roads safer with less fatalities, but in the end you can't put a price on the life of a child."

Fighting Legislation In Arizona

Sam Crump, an Arizona assemblyman who is opposed to the speed cameras and has backed legislation to have them removed from the state's freeways in 2010, says the main backing for speed cameras within Arizona has come from "senior citizens groups," but there has been a surprising agreement between his core conservative followers and college students over privacy concerns.

"It's been the subject of some debate since we introduced it and some legislators have been surprised by the controversy," Crump said. "We expect it to come up for a vote in the next couple weeks. If it fails, we'll say more power to the people. But every time [a freeway speed-camera initiative] has been up for a vote in any place it has failed."

Arizona's former governor, Janet Napolitano, predicted Arizona's freeway camera system would generate $90 million in profit for the state in 2009, and $34 million for the private company that runs it. Crump, however says the system's total profit has been in the range of "$20 to $25 million a year," which leads him to suggest that speed camera detractors who say it's only a device to make money could be wrong.

"I caution people that it really is technology in the hands of Big Brother," Crump said. "We've got 70 or so [freeway speed cameras] right now, and they're looking at [a total of] 200."

Safety At Issue

Russ Rader, at the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety, says that, outside of freeways, speed cameras are used in 48 communities nationwide, including in Arizona, Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Mexico, Ohio, Oregon, Tennessee, Washington, and Washington DC. The group's research shows that photo enforcement "works to slow drivers down. Cameras do what police officers can't -- enforce speed limit laws 24/7. Speeding is a major safety problem on our roads. It contributes to one-third of all crash deaths."

The IIHS found that speed cameras "can substantially reduce speeding on a wide range of roadway types. Six months after implementation of speed cameras on residential streets and school zones in Montgomery County, Maryland, in 2007, the proportion of drivers exceeding speed limits by more than 10 mph declined by about 70 percent. Implementation of a 9-month pilot program using fixed speed cameras on a busy urban freeway in Scottsdale, Arizona, in 2006 was associated with up to a 95 percent decrease in the odds that drivers would travel more than 10 mph above the posted 65 mph speed limit."

"The main argument opponents use against camera enforcement is that it can be a cash cow for local governments," Rader said. "If you don't like the idea of sending revenue to your local government, don't break the law. It's hardly unreasonable to expect drivers to stay within 10 mph of the speed limit. I have an elementary school in my neighborhood, which is bisected by a major commuter road where drivers regularly speed like banshees. I want those drivers ticketed. Period. There aren't enough police officers to do that everywhere."

Nationwide Rollout?

Newspaper.com's Richard Diamond, an opponent of speed cameras, says it's hard at times to weigh which "side" -- opponents of the cameras, or their detractors -- is "winning."

"There are places where cameras are advancing, and places where they're retreating," said Diamond. "For politicians, the desire is on increase, but whether they can get away with it, that level has gone down."

He says lawmakers in Wisconsin, Ohio, Montana and Mississippi failed to get a freeway speed camera measure onto a ballot, but points to Maryland as an example of lawmakers' success. He says 13 states have specific laws banning freeway cameras, but he sees a natural progression from states using red-light cameras to using freeway speed cameras.

"The biggest issue opponents have is it creates a legal system where you're presumed guilty without a trial," Diamond said. "If a database says you're a criminal, you are. Once you let in the cameras it opens the door that this is OK."

He says protesting freeway speed cameras can be an arduous task.

"Somebody willing to go to the effort for 30 days and grab 20,000 signatures takes dedication."

Grassroots Activism

Todd Kandaris, at www.Camerafraud.com, says his Arizona-based group's campaign against freeway cameras started late in 2008 and his group's member numbers have swelled from 100 to about 1500. He says the group works to bring attention to the issue through protests and publicity stunts.

"Early on we concentrated on raising awareness and getting attention, [with] groups of people getting out there and protesting," said Kandaris. "We find that highway overpasses work well. Thousands [of motorists] go by in a given hour, and [it gets] lots of media attention. We demo'd in front of the manufacturer's headquarters. Earlier this year we introduced a citizen's initiative with the secretary of state, attempting to put the issue on the ballot, to let citizens vote on it in 2010."

He says the group must collect more than 150,000 signatures by July 2010 to place the issue on the statewide ballot, and is working with groups in Virginia, Louisiana, D.C., Texas and Ohio. "Cameras have never withstood a vote of the public, which tells you this is a device used by politicians and corporations to make money. It's not like we're a bunch of evil speeding people, we want traffic control as much as everyone else. We just think this is just a device to bilk money out of the public."

Legal Standpoint

Sherman Ellison, a California lawyer who fights regular speeding and traffic tickets, says that a key legal issue is the data-gathering system by which driver information is collected by companies and then distributed to law-enforcement agencies, who then issue the citation to the car's driver, or owner (which varies by state).

"If you were driving down the street and ran a red light and an officer pulled you over he'd write a ticket for failing to stop," Ellison said. "He would have visually observed [the offense] and you'd either plead or go to trial, where you'd be able to ask him for proof of that. In the photo context there is no officer, it's just a camera connected to a laptop, and that system sends that information to a company, whether that's Redflex or another, that sends data digitally to the contractor.

"The difficulty in this process is they will crop or enhance these photos or whatever they feel they have to do, for the determination of whether they broke the law. I demand that they prove this is a true and correct photograph and rarely they'll go through that process."

Redflex Responds

Cristine Weeks, a spokeswoman for Redflex, an Australian company headquartered near Phoenix that works in tandem with seven other vendors enforcing speed limits nationwide and operates Arizona's freeway speed-camera system, says several studies -- including those of the IIHS, Arizona State University and the Arizona Department of Transportation -- have demonstrated camera "efficacy and accident reductions."

She says the Redflex infrastructure was set up without any additional taxpayer funds and that the company contracts with various state and city departments in the same way as a waste-management company would. The company reported $88.2 million in revenue for its global operations in 2008 -- and an annual increase of 43 percent in U.S. traffic revenues from $44.3 million to $63.3 million -- and an operating profit of $10.6 million.

She says the company's data-gathering process involves analyzing digital still images as well as streaming video, and that the company performs a quality check of any images before sending them to law-enforcement officers, who review all of the evidence before authorizing any citation.

"Nothing is changed on the image. They are not 'Photoshopped,'" Weeks said. "It is impossible to 'shop in a light system. In the early days it was a question many wanted to know. [But] the agencies are walked through to see how the process works, and a violator can view their own video."

She says radars similar to mobile-police devices measure a motorist's time over distance and any breach of the speed limit results in a camera image of the front of the car, including the driver, and the car's rear license plate. She says although Arizona freeway drivers are not levied points on their license for any breach of the law, that as drivers are forced to pay more fines, they become "more aware" of their driving patterns, and modify their driving accordingly.

1941 LINCOLN CONTINENTAL

2009-06-01T14:11:00.000-07:00

1941 LINCOLN CONTINENTAL

Black with Red leather interior, V12 purrs like a kitten, very solid car with all its parts, runs great, looks great. Automatic, AM radio, leather seats, leather trim.

1941 Lincoln Zephyr 4-Door Sedan

2009-06-01T14:06:00.000-07:00

1941 Lincoln Zephyr 4-Door Sedan

Totally beautiful 1941 Lincoln Zephyr 4 door sedan with suicide doors, 282cid V12 engine and rated at 120hp. Car is mainly original. It has been painted and the front and rear seats have been re-upholstered with the same original material. Door panels and headliner are original. The original V12 engine has been rebuilt and it runs in perfect condition. The engine is barely audible at idle. The car has the original 3-speed manual transmission. It also has the original working radio and heater and the outside hood air vent. Original push-button door opener from the inside.

1962 Lincoln Continental - Elvis Presley

2009-05-31T11:12:00.000-07:00

1959 LINCOLN CONTINENTAL MARK IV

2009-05-31T11:08:00.000-07:00

1959 Continental Mark IV 4 door hardtop sedan, 9,810 original miles, Black with Red interior, absolutely mint condition, spotless in and out. 9,800 miles, automatic.

1959 Lincoln Continental Mark IV Convertible

2009-05-31T11:00:00.000-07:00

430 V8 with an automatic, power steering, power brakes with all power options. Restored to original specs. Classic convertible with white/black/red color combination. Restored. Power rear glass. One of the rarest big classic cars you may find. Loaded with all power options. Brand new NOS correct Lincoln top has never been put down.

1956 LINCOLN CONTINENTAL MARK II - MERLE NORMAN CAR

2009-05-31T10:56:00.000-07:00

1956 LINCOLN CONTINENTAL MARK II - MERLE NORMAN CAR

1956 LINCOLN CONTINENTAL MARK II ID# C5691327 THIS CAR WAS DELIVERED TO MRS. MERLE NORMAN, FOUNDER OF MERLE NORMAN COSMETICS, ON THE 21ST OF OCTOBER 1955,THE DATE OF THE MODEL'S U.S. INTRODUCTION, AND SHE RETAINED THE AUTOMOBILE ON HER ESTATE IN ARIZONA UNTIL HER PASSING IN 1972. AFTER A METICULOUS GROUND-UP RESTORATION, IT IS NOW THE VERY FINEST CONTINENTAL MARK II IN EXISTENCE. A WINNER OF NUMEROUS MAJOR NATIONAL AWARDS. IN 1995 IT WON THE BEST OF THE 1950'S DECADE AWARD AT THE 75TH ANNIVERSARY LINCOLN SHOW IN DEARBORN, AND IN JULY 1996 WAS AWARDED SENIOR 1ST PLACE GRAND NATIONAL AT THE ANNUAL A.A.C.A. GRAND NATIONAL MEET, THE HIGHEST AWARD GIVEN.

1956 Lincoln Capri 2-Door Hardtop

2009-05-31T10:52:00.000-07:00

Year: 1956 Lincoln Capri 2-Door Hardtop

Exterior Color: LIGHT BLUE
Interior Color: 2 TONE BLUE
Cylinders: V8
Engine: 285
Transmission: 3-SPEED AUTOMATIC

Gorgeous ground-up restoration of classic period luxury car. All original with many optional features including automatic, power steering, power brakes and original radio with power antenna. A fantastic driver. This car was the class of its time.

1956 LINCOLN PREMIERE CONVERTIBLE

2009-05-31T10:49:00.000-07:00

1956 LINCOLN PREMIERE CONVERTIBLE

1956 Lincoln Premiere Convertible Chassis No. 56LA8457L Specifications: 258bhp, 368 cu. in. V8 engine with four-barrel carburetor, Turbo-Drive automatic transmission, independent front suspension with coil springs, live axle rear suspension with leaf springs, four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes. The most attractive and desirable of the Premiere line has always been the Convertible Coupe. Just 2,447 examples were built, of which only a few still exist. This 1956 Lincoln Premier Convertible was the 195th car built and has been restored in its original exterior and interior colors. Options on this vehicle include power windows, power antenna, Town & Country radio, power seats and a unique angled dealer option continental kit. The history of the Premiere dates back to 1967 when Mr. Henry Ricci of Seattle, Washington purchased the automobile from the original owner. The Lincoln would remain in Mr. Ricci's personal collection until his death in 2001. The automobile was subsequently sold by the Ricci Estate to Mr. Tom Koens, who purchased the vehicle for a customer of his, Mr. Larry Kamuso, a collector of Fords and Oldsmobiles in Los Angeles. A year later, the car was sold to a Mr. Steve Price of Springfield, Virginia. Mr. Price commissioned a complete frame-off restoration for the Premiere, which included a total engine and drivetrain rebuild. He held onto the car for two years, driving it sparingly. In 2004, he sold the car in Hershey, Pennsylvania at the AACA auction to Mr. Bob Pittman, who invested in some additional electrical work, as well as refurbishing the dash and convertible top mechanism before selling it to the current owner. The Premiere was shown at an LCOC event in Scottsdale, AZ in 2006, where it scored 98/100. One point was lost because the windshield wiper washers did not work (a problem which has since been rectified) and the other point was deducted because the continental kit was not a manufacturer available option but rather a dealer option. Today the Premiere Convertible drives wonderfully, every system not only looks new, but works as it did the day it came off the assembly line. The car also comes with a detailed history since 1967, which includes the contact information of previous owners. So before you bid on this car, make sure you have plenty of room on your mantle, because if you ever choose to bring this trophy magnet to an LCOC or any other club event, plan on bringing home some hardware.

1956 LINCOLN CONTINENTAL MARK II

2009-05-31T10:47:00.001-07:00

1956 LINCOLN CONTINENTAL MARK II

Auto Trans, 2-Door, 2WD, 71K Miles, Leather Int, Lots of Chrome, New Exhaust, All Power, Exc Cond. Prvt Prty Sllr.

1956 LINCOLN PREMIERE

2009-05-31T10:44:00.000-07:00

1956 LINCOLN PREMIERE

Parts or Repairs to the 56 Lincoln: Paint $882.65, Clear Coat $100.00, Buffing $ 184.57, Break Shoes, Wheel Cylinders X 4 $ 286.50, New Battery, Power Steering, Head Gaskets/Valve cover gasket, 3 Exhausts Valves, New Valves/ complete valve job, Cylinder Heads Done, New Fuel Pump, Heater Control Valve, Radiator Cap, Boiled out Carburetor/ and New Kit, Rotor/ Points/ Distributor Cap/ Condenser, New Plug Wires, New Oil Filter/ Oil Breather Cap, Hood Insulation, Radio Cleaned/ New Tubes, Tail Light Lense, Floor Mats. Things Being Done Now: Emergency Break, Return spring, Coil springs (front and back), New Leaf in Leaf Springs ( in Back), Hood springs. Things To Do: Gas Gauge needs sending unit, Turn signals need flasher, Dash Lights, Front End Alignment, Gas Tank Neck needs Patch/Leaks at top, Continental Kit needs spring to hold front plate in place, Some rust underneath/ will need patching and undercoat, One valve lifter taps needs Rislone or adjustment, Electric windows fragile, Transmission has a slow leak when sitting for long periods of time(seals). There was air conditioning in the car, I have no idea if it is hooked up or even works. This was the first year for air in these cars. Also it rivaled Cadillac for most luxurious in 1956, and won. It had the most new unique options. The motor is a 368 V8, the transmission is a Hydromatic 3 speed automatic. And yes the brakes are drum. As for other things that need to be done: it also needs a headliner, paint repair on the dash, and the leather on the dash needs to be re-glued down. As well as other misc. things that any car collector would expect to need to be addressed.

1956 Lincoln Mark II

2009-05-31T10:41:00.000-07:00

1956 Lincoln Premier 2-Door Hardtop

2009-05-31T10:36:00.000-07:00

1956 Lincoln Premier 2-Door Hardtop

Winner in 2000 of "Ford Motor Company Global Car of the Year" and Motor Trend Car of the Year. This car sells with documented 71,466 miles. Purchased from famed hair stylist Paul J. Least, who purchased this car new. Powered by a V8 engine and automatic transmission. Matching numbers motor and drive train. Coral exterior with coral and white interior. The 1956 Lincoln Premiere was the prototype car for the "Batmobile" in the 1960's TV series. Setting on wide white wall tires with original hubcaps. Fender skirts, air conditioning, cruise control, dual exhaust, power antenna, power brakes, power steering, power windows, and power seats. Sells with the original owners manual. A rare chance to buy an award winning car with documentation.

1954 Lincoln Capri 2-Door Hardtop

2009-05-31T10:32:00.000-07:00

Year 1954 Lincoln Capri 2-Door Hardtop

Exterior Color: BLACK/YELLOW
Interior color: YELLOW/WHITE
Cylinders: V-8
Engine: 317.5
Transmission: HYDRA-MATIC

This is a beautiful black and yellow restoration of the 1954 Lincoln Capri. It is a numbers matching vehicle. The 1954 Lincoln Capri triumphed in the Carrera Pan Americana Mexican Road Race and turned heads with its overhead-valve V8 engine, pioneering suspension and smart styling. The car has speed and agility and was immortalized in the song, "Hot Rod Lincoln". The car boasts luxury with performance. Power windows, power steering and brakes and even a Hydra-matic automatic transmission. Some of the great additions include an original 1954 Lincoln colored sales brochure, an original 1954 "Life" magazine with the two page Lincoln Capri ad and an original August 1954 "MotorTrend" magazine article reviewing the 1954 Capri.

1954 Lincoln Capri

2009-05-31T10:29:00.000-07:00

1953 LINCOLN COSMOPOLITAN 2DR HT

2009-05-31T10:25:00.000-07:00

1953 LINCOLN COSMOPOLITAN

2DR HT 317.5, V8, AUTOMATIC, POWER STEERING, POWER BRAKES, POWER WINDOWS, POWER SEAT, FULL DISC SPOKE HUBCAPS WITH WIDE WHITE WALL TIRES, TINTED GLASS, FACTORY AM RADIO, CLOCK, FENDER SKIRTS, TWIN SPOT LIGHTS, FOG LIGHTS, FINISHED IN ITS ORIGINAL REGENT BLACK AND COLONY BLUE PAINT. THIS HIGH OPTIONED TRUE COLLECTOR CAR IS A GREAT SOLID UNRESTORED SURVIVOR THAT HAS BEEN MAINTAINED TO FACTORY SPECS, IS A GOOD WEEKEND CRUISER SHOWING ONLY 59,972 MILES. THIS CAR COMES TO YOU INSPECTED, SERVICED AND DETAILED SO YOU CAN HAVE YEARS OF FUN WITH YOUR MONEY WELL INVESTED WHILE YOU HAVE A BLAST!

1953 Lincoln Capri Convertible

2009-05-31T10:22:00.000-07:00

1953 Lincoln Capri Convertible

The most expensive and elegant Lincoln for 1953 was this Capri 2 door convertible. One of the most beautiful American designs of the 1950's, the Capri is powered by a 317.5cid, 205hp, 5 main-bearing V8 engine of exceptional smoothness coupled with a GM Hydra-matic automatic transmission. Options include: power brakes, power steering, power windows, 4-way power seat, whitewall tires and radio. Luxury appointments include a soft leather upholstered interior and dual spotlights. This is a solid, mechanically sound example of a rare and beautiful type.

1953 Lincoln Capri

2009-05-31T10:18:00.000-07:00

1952 Lincoln Capri

2009-05-31T10:15:00.000-07:00

1952 Lincoln Capri

Less than 30,000 miles, automatic, Two Tone Green with Two Tone Green interior, carpeted floormats. New and original condition, mint, owner since 1988, garage kept, non smoker, original white wall tires, car has been completely restored, first overhead V8 put in Ford products, 333ci engine.

1950 Lincoln Cosmopolitan Sedan

2009-05-31T10:11:00.000-07:00

Purchased in September 1997 from Towe Auto Museum in Deer Lodge, Montana. Always garaged. Extensive replacement of aged and defective "soft" parts and replacement of engine. Receipts for over $13,000 spent in making the car in good condition. Original paint still has luster. There are chips in several locations. Car was the property originally of a Montana rancher. When he had driven the car a relatively short time he had a fatal heart attack. His wife donated the car to the Towe Museum. A rare car capable of fast and fun driving. It would be perfect for a cosmetic upgrade.

1949 LINCOLN SEDAN

2009-05-31T10:09:00.000-07:00

472 Cadillac motor and transmission, lots of chrome, frame-off restoration, less than 10,000 miles since restoration. Always kept in heated garage! Less than 10,000 miles, automatic, Black Cherry with Light Gray.

1948 Lincoln Convertible

2009-05-30T03:41:00.000-07:00

Year 1948 Lincoln Convertible

Exterior Color: GREEN
Interior color: GREEN
Cylinders: 12
Transmission: MANUAL

The most important thing about this V12 powered Lincoln convertible is that it is not a Continental. It is much more rare and distinctive. This convertible is resplendent in Valley Green with green leather interior, matching green carpets and a tan cloth top and top boot. Its 305cid Flathead V12 engine drive through an overdrive 3-speed transmission giving it performance that will comfortably keep up with today's freeway traffic. As expected for Ford's top-of-the-line marque, it is comprehensively equipped including pushbutton radio, heater, clock, rear fender skirts with delicious chrome embellishments, hubcaps, trim rings and power windows. The restoration evidences very high quality workmanship and materials throughout, especially in the exceptionally crisp and sharp grille and trim chrome work - an area of these cars which is frighteningly expensive to restore and therefore frequently given short shrift in restorations - and the precise fit and function of the pushbutton-operated doors. The chassis, drivetrain and engine are like new. The 1948 Lincolns were succeeded very early in 1948 by the completely re-designed 1949 Lincolns and Cosmopolitans. Only 6,470 1948 Lincolns were built in all body styles. Of them, the convertible is far and away the most rare and sought by collectors and this is an exceptionally fine and sympathetically restored example that needs absolutely no excuses.