For the historical body style, see
Town car.
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 the 2011 model years. Often converted into a stretch limousine, it is the most commonly used limousine and chauffeured car in the United States and Canada.
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, superseding the
Continental as the flagship for the Lincoln brand as well as for Ford
Motor Company.
Featuring a standard V8 engine, body-on-frame design, rear-wheel drive and large exterior and interior dimensions,
the Town Car was based on the
Ford Panther platform. This gave it powertrain and suspension commonality with the
Mercury Grand Marquis and the
Ford LTD Crown Victoria (later the
Crown Victoria).
This design made them durable even in the rough conditions taxi and
livery cars are subjected to, and easy and cheap to repair when they did
suffer damage.
Town Cars are typically operated in commercial service for at least 400,000 miles.
Its large dimensions made it the largest car in production in North
America. From 1997 to 2011, the Town Car was the longest car (but not
the heaviest) 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.
After its discontinuation following the 2011 model year, the Town Car
was left without a direct replacement. Although dimensionally a
full-size sedan, the
Lincoln MKS's architecture is considerably different as it has a front-wheel drive unibody platform with optional all-wheel drive. The MKS is marketed more as of a successor to the sportier
Lincoln LS
as well as the 1995–2002 Continental. To fill the gap left by the Town
Car, Lincoln has remained in livery markets by developing a limousine
variant of the
MKT full-size crossover vehicle, which was made available around the second quarter of 2012 and is known as the "MKT Town Car."
Lincoln is also believed to be preparing a true Town Car successor on a
rear-wheel drive platform to rival the Mercedes S-Class and BMW
7-series.
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 1920s 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 1970s and 1980s 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
 |
| Also called |
Lincoln Continental (1980)
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 |
5.0L/302cui V8 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)
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 lb (410 kg), 1 in (25 mm) in width, 14 in
(360 mm) in length, and 10 in (250 mm) in wheelbase. Despite these
dimensional regressions, engineering changes (such as the lack of
sufficient engine compartment room to fit a big-block engine) allowed 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 1970s 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. The 1980 Lincoln Continental was the
base series and the 1980 Lincoln Continental Town Car was the upgraded
trim series. For 1981 Lincoln used the names Continental and Town Car on
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
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 1990's.
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 cu in (4.9 L) 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. Also, beginning with the 1988 model year, the Lincoln star
became taller and narrower, as opposed to the more square-like
appearance that it had used for decades. The narrower star design
continues to this day.
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 cu in (7.5 L) optional). The 460 cu in (7.5 L)
V8 engine was last available in the 1978 model year. These were
replaced with the smaller 5.0L/302cui 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
 |
| Production |
1989–1997 |
| Model years |
1990–1997 |
| 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 1980s model. The revised interior featured a new
dashboard, seats, and door panels.
Town Car was still available in three trim levels: Base (renamed
"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 1990's, Town Car sales regularly exceeded 100,000
units with 120,121 Town Cars being sold in 1994 alone.
The vehicle was so widely received that it was named the 1990 Motor Trend Car of the Year.
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. 1991 saw the introduction of Ford's new Modular V8, a 4.6 L 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
(15 kW) 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 lb·ft (37 kg·m) of torque. As a result, the fuel mileage decreased by one, bringing that to 18 miles per US gallon (13 L/100 km) city and 25 miles per US gallon (9.4 L/100 km) highway.
There were three distinct models that remained throughout this generation Town Car's life cycle:
The Base (later Executive) Town Car offered six-passenger seating
with two bench seats, an A/M-F/M stereo with cassette player and four
speakers, power seats in the front, a four-speed automatic transmission
(later with overdrive), cloth seating surfaces, fifteen-inch tires with
laced alloy wheels, a digital LED dashboard, trip computer, dashboard
clock, and keyless entry with Ford's Securicode keyless entry keypad.
The Signature added leather seating surfaces and an available cloth imitation convertible roof.
Finally, the top-of-the-line Cartier offered a JBL-branded sound
system with amplifier, a security system, alloy spoked wheels, and other
exclusive details.
A Jack Nicklaus Edition Town Car, based on the Signature Series Town
Car, was available from 1991 to 1993. It offered special commemorative
badges, gold lettering for exterior badges, gold front grille spokes, a
gold Lincoln hood emblem, gold laced alloy wheels, gold interior
accents, and a JBL premium sound system with amplifier. This Town Car
celebrated professional golfing legend Jack Nicklaus. Production of this
one-of-a-kind Town Car ended in 1993.
1995 Facelift
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 1970's, 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, and offered lighted vanity
mirrors in the headliner for the two outboard rear seating positions.
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
 |
| 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)
2001–2004 Town Car L: 221.3 in (5,621 mm)
2005–2011 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
Hongqi CA7460/Hongqi Qijian(红旗旗舰) |
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 3 in (76 mm) in overall
length, the new Town Car was 2 in (51 mm) wider, 1 in (25 mm) taller,
with a slightly longer wheelbase as well.
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 year. In late 2000, the Touring Edition featured a
more powerful 235 hp (175 kW) version of the Town Car's Modular V8 engine, dual exhaust pipes and unique 16" alloy wheels with larger tires.
According to Consumer Guide the car scores above average in the
premium luxury segments 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 new "L" designation was used on Lincoln Town Cars with extended
wheelbases from 2000 to 2011. The L editions offered an additional 6 in
(150 mm) of rear-seat legroom, as well as remote access audio and
climate controls mounted in the rear center armrest. Also included was a
two-way travel switch for the front passenger seat base (a feature
shared with the extended-wheelbase Jaguar XJ). This
L designation was 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 (2000–2003),
Ultimate (2004 only), and Signature (2005–2011) trim levels. For the
2000–02 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. Fleet buyers got a version of the "L" under the Executive trim
designation.
Hongqi CA7460
In China, FAW made a licensed version of the Lincoln Town Car and was rebadged as
Hongqi CA7460(红旗CA7460),
Hongqi Qijian(红旗旗舰) from November 10, 1998
to 2005.
However the limousine version continues to be produced and sold in china.
2003 facelift
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. Also for 2006, Lincoln
offered a 25th Anniversary Edition package to commemorate the 25th
anniversary of the Town Car.
For 2008, many previous options were included in the base price. The
Town Car was available in two models: the Signature Limited 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 three-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 Limited and the
extended wheelbase Signature L. 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 hp (167 kW; 227 PS) for the fleet-based Executive, while the
Signature got 239 hp (178 kW; 242 PS). 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.
Sales
| Calendar Year |
American sales |
| 1998 |
97,547 |
| 1999 |
84,629 |
| 2000 |
81,399 |
| 2001 |
66,859 |
| 2002 |
59,312 |
| 2003 |
56,566 |
| 2004 |
51,908 |
| 2005 |
47,122 |
| 2006 |
39,295 |
| 2007 |
26,739 |
| 2008 |
15,653 |
| 2009 |
11,375 |
| 2010 |
11,264 |
| 2011 |
9,460 |
| 2012 |
1,001 |
660,129 Town Cars were sold during this period.
Discontinuation
In spite of declining sales, the Town Car remained one of the best
selling American luxury cars; it was the United States' and Canada's
most used limousine and chauffeured car.
In 2006, as part of
The Way Forward, Ford considered ending production of Lincoln's largest model as part of the 2007 closing of the
Wixom Assembly Plant.
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."
Ford ultimately decided to keep the model and move assembly to the
St. Thomas Assembly Plant in Ontario, Canada; this was home to the
Ford Crown Victoria and
Mercury Grand Marquis; both models also used the Ford Panther platform. The Town Car's manufacture resumed at its new location in late 2007.
The first Canadian-assembled Town Car was built on January 10, 2008.
However, in Canada, Town Cars were sold exclusively for fleet and
livery sales, having been discontinued in retail markets after the 2007
model year.
In 2009, the fate of all three Panther-platform models was determined
when Ford announced the 2011 closure of the St. Thomas Assembly Plant.
For the limousine and livery markets, Ford had promised availability of
the Town Car through the 2011 model year;
retail sales continued on a limited basis in the United States and for
export. 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). On August
29, 2011, the final Town Car rolled off the assembly line, without any
fanfare or announcement from Ford.
With the discontinuation of the Town Car, Lincoln has moved to remain
in livery markets by developing a limousine variant of the MKT full-size CUV.
The MKT limousine will be available around the second quarter of 2012 and will be called "MKT Town Car."
Lincoln is also believed to be preparing a true Town Car successor on a
rear-wheel drive platform to rival the Mercedes S-Class and BMW
7-series.
Trim levels
Signature Series Identification Label
In 1981 the Town Car was introduced in three trim levels:
the base model, the mid-range Signature Series, and the top-of-the-line
Cartier Series. In 1991, the Executive Series became the designation
for the base/entry model. In 2004, the Cartier name was dropped and
replaced by Ultimate, and the Executive Series name was now only used
for fleet vehicles going forward. This left the Signature Series as the
entry level model. In 2005, however, the lineup was changed again and
all three trim levels carried a Signature badge: Signature, Signature
Limited, and Signature L. In 2006 and 2007, a Designer Series was added
to fit in between the mid-range Signature Limited and the
top-of-the-line Signature L. Starting in 2008 and through the end of the
model run, the Signature Limited and Signature L were the only retail
trim levels available.
Signature (1981–2011)
The Signature Series was the mid-level, and also 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 base trim level and
Ultimate was now used to describe the upper level trim. In 2005 the
Ultimate was dropped and all trim levels were changed to a version of
Signature. The base 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 with a Designer Series being added between the
Signature Limited and top-of-line Signature L. By 2008, 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,
including LWB or "L" versions 2000–2003. 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.
Executive (1991–2003 for retail and 2004–2011 for fleet)
The Executive Series was the base trim level and thus the most
affordable Lincoln Town Car from 1991 through 2003. After 2003, the
Executive Series designation continued on, but for fleet vehicles only
and included both SWB and LWB versions.
Limited (2000–2004) and
Signature Limited (2005–2011)
"Limited", as an option package, was available on Signature trim models
from 2000 to 2003 and on the Ultimate in 2004. Starting in 2005, Limited
(known as Signature Limited) became its own trim level.
Ultimate (2004)
Ultimate was only used on the 2004 Town Car. The Ultimate designation
replaced Cartier for 2004 and was used for the top-of-line model. Like
the Cartier, it was offered in SWB and LWB versions.
Designer (2006–2007)
The Designer Series was an
upper-middle trim level in between the
Signature Limited and Signature L. This trim included two-tone interior
accents, a special higher quality leather called
Provence
leather. The rear seats also included four way adjustable head
restraints exclusively on this trim for the standard wheelbase. On the
exterior special chromed B pillars and chrome wheels were included.
Trim level timeline
| Lincoln Town Car Timeline |
| Trim level |
1980s |
1990s |
2000s |
| '81 |
'82 |
'83 |
'84 |
'85 |
'86 |
'87 |
'88 |
'89 |
'90 |
'91 |
'92 |
'93 |
'94 |
'95 |
'96 |
'97 |
'98 |
'99 |
'00 |
'01 |
'02 |
'03 |
'04 |
'05 |
'06 |
'07 |
'08 |
'09 |
'10 |
'11 |
| Entry |
Base |
Executive Series |
Signature Series |
Signature Limited |
| Mid-level |
Signature Series |
|
Signature Limited |
|
| High-end |
Cartier Series |
Ultimate |
|
Designer Series |
|
| L |
|
Cartier L |
Ultimate L |
Signature L |
| Fleet |
|
Executive, Executive L |
Special editions
Sail America Commemorative Edition
This special edition 1987 Signature Series model came in white with a
blue carriage roof and had white leather interior with blue piping and
special badging. Ford Motor Company was one of the corporate sponsors of
the "Sail America Foundation" syndicate, owner of the 1987 America's
Cup winning yacht
Stars & Stripes 87.
Special Edition
The 1989 Town Car Signature Series was offered with a Special Edition
package featuring a carriage roof, JBL audio system, leather-wrapped
steering wheel, and "Special Edition" badging. This replaced a Gucci edition Town Car that had been in the works.
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
1996 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" 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. Features included unique accent stripe, leather
seats, wood instrument panel trim, window badging, cellular telephone, power moonroof, JBL audio system, auto electrochromatic dimming mirror with compass, and traction assist.
Cypress Edition
Also in 1996, Lincoln offered a Signature Series Cypress Edition which
featured Cypress Gold Frost exterior paint, two-toned leather interior,
and red Cypress tree badging.
Touring
Touring/Touring Sedan option packages were offered on Signature trim
level models from 1996 to 2002. Specific options varied through the
years with latter packages becoming more focused on sporting performance
and handling features.
Pro Series
In 2005, a Pro Series edition/option package was available on the
Signature Limited and included embroidered "Pro Series" logos on
driver/front passenger seat backs, 9-spoke chrome wheels, chrome
B-pillar, two-tone instrument panel, and floor mats with "Pro Series"
brushed aluminum badges.
25th Anniversary Edition
Lincoln commemorated the 25th anniversary of the Town Car by offering a
25th Anniversary Edition package on the 2006 Signature Limited. The
package included chrome B-pillar and door handles, unique Eucalyptus
wood applique and matching steering wheel with wood inserts, scuff
plates with "25th Anniversary Edition" and "25th anniversary" badging,
Provence leather individual 40/20/40 lounge seating with individual
comfort, shirring, contrast piping and rear seat adjustable headrests,
foglamps, and 9-spoke chrome wheels.
Continental Edition
Offered in 2010 and 2011 was the Continental Edition package; available
as an option only on the Signature Limited trim. The package added
Continental badging, chrome 17" wheels and accents to the B-pillars. On
the interior, the Continental name was embroidered on the front seats
and front floor mats.
Ballistic Protection Series
Starting in 2003, the Lincoln Town Car had been available featuring
ballistic protection
from the factory. Adding nearly $100,000 to the base price, the armored
body and bulletproof glass raised the curb weight of the Town Car to
nearly 7,000 pounds.
Other changes to the suspension and brakes were intended to preserve the handling of the Town Car.
Aftermarket
Throughout the entire run of the Town Car, numerous aftermarket
companies and Lincoln-Mercury dealerships offered unique "trim packages"
that typically included special roof treatments, grilles, wheels, and
badging. These were especially popular in the 1980s and 1990s.
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.
It should be noted that Motor Trend has changed the criteria by which
it awards its highest accolade: Originally, Car of the Year awards went
to the vehicle model which was the most significantly improved over the
previous year's design in all respects. Currently, no such consideration
is given to contenders for this award, and vehicles are considered for
the award even if in their first year of production.
Engine specifications
| Trim level |
Year |
Engine |
Power |
Torque |
| First Generation |
Executive
Signature
Cartier |
1981 |
4.9 L 5.0L Windsor V8 |
130 hp (97 kW) at 3400 rpm |
230 lb·ft (310 N·m) at 2,200 rpm |
| 1982 |
134 hp (100 kW) at 3400 rpm |
245 lb·ft (332 N·m) at 2,200 rpm |
| 1983 |
140 hp (104 kW) at 3200 rpm |
250 lb·ft (340 N·m). at 2,000 rpm |
| 1984–1985 |
140 hp (104 kW) at 3200 rpm |
250 lb·ft (340 N·m) at 1,600 rpm |
| 1984–1985 |
(Dual Exhaust) |
155 hp (116 kW) at 3600 rpm |
265 lb·ft (359 N·m). at 2,000 rpm |
| 1986–1989 |
4.9 L 5.0L Windsor V8 |
150 hp (112 kW) |
270 lb·ft (370 N·m) at 2,000 rpm |
| 1986 |
(Dual Exhaust) |
160 hp (119 kW) |
280 lb·ft (380 N·m) at 2,200 rpm |
| 1987–1989 |
(Dual Exhaust) |
160 hp (119 kW) |
280 lb·ft (380 N·m) at 2,200 rpm |
| Second Generation |
| Executive Series |
1990 |
5.0 L Windsor V8 |
150 hp (112 kW) |
270 lb·ft (370 N·m) at 2,000 rpm |
| 1991–1996 |
4.6 L Modular V8 |
210 hp (157 kW) |
275 lb·ft (373 N·m) at 3,250 rpm |
| 1997 |
190 hp (142 kW) |
265 lb·ft (359 N·m) at 3,250 rpm |
Signature Series
Cartier |
1990 |
5.0 L Windsor V8 |
160 hp (120 kW) |
280 lb·ft (380 N·m) at 2,200 rpm |
| 1991–1997 |
4.6 L Modular V8 |
210 hp (157 kW) |
275 lb·ft (373 N·m) at 3,250 rpm |
| Third Generation |
Executive Series
Signature Series |
1998–2000 |
4.6 L Modular SOHC 16V V8 |
205 hp (153 kW) |
| 2001–2002 |
235 hp (175 kW) |
287 lb·ft (389 N·m) at 3,500 rpm |
| 2003–2007 |
239 hp (178 kW) |
287 lb·ft (389 N·m) at 4,100 rpm |
Signature Touring
Signature Limited
Ultimate
Designer Series |
1998–2002 |
239 hp (178 kW) |
287 lb·ft (389 N·m) at 4,100 rpm |
| 2005–2011 |
| 2004 |
| 2006–2007 |
| Cartier |
1998–2000 |
220 hp (164 kW) |
290 lb·ft (390 N·m) at 3,500 rpm |
| L Edition |
2000–2002 |
235 hp (175 kW) |
285 lb·ft (386 N·m) |
| 2003–2011 |
239 hp (178 kW) |
287 lb·ft (389 N·m) at 4,100 rpm |
See also
External Links:
Source: Internet
