1967 Lincoln Continental IV Convertible. Beige version

The Lincoln Continental is a series of mid-sized and full-sized luxury cars produced by Lincoln, a division of the American automaker Ford Motor Company.

The model line was introduced following the construction of a personal vehicle for Edsel Ford, who commissioned a coachbuilt 1939 Lincoln-Zephyr convertible, developed as a vacation vehicle to attract potential Lincoln buyers. In what would give the model line its name, the exterior was given European “continental” styling elements, including a rear-mounted spare tire.

Fourth generation (1961–1969)

For the 1961 model year the Lincoln range was consolidated into one model. Following the $60 million in losses to develop the 1958–1960 cars, all models were replaced by a new Lincoln Continental.

Making its first appearance since 1948, the fourth-generation was available only as a four-door sedan and convertible until its 1966 model year refresh. The 1961 four-door sedan was listed at US$6,067 ($59,413 in 2022 dollars) and manufactured 22,303 while the convertible was listed at US$6,713 ($65,740 in 2022 dollars) and manufactured 2,857.

The new generation was nearly 15 inches shorter overall with a 8″ shorter wheelbase over its predecessor, though heavier than its Cadillac or Imperial counterparts.

Its construction and post-build quality control reflected Ford corporate management’s commitment to quality.

The 1961 Lincoln Continental and its designers received a bronze medal by the Industrial Design Institute (IDI) of New York, NY. It also won Car Life’s 1961 Engineering Excellence Award.

For 1966, the fourth-generation Lincoln Continental underwent a second mid-cycle redesign. To better compete against the Cadillac Coupe de Ville and the Imperial Crown Coupe, Lincoln introduced its first two-door pillarless hardtop since 1960.

Made in the USA

Years of production: 1966-1969

Engine: 8 cylinders; 7571 cc

Power: 340 HP

Max speed: 205 km/h

Weight: 2290 kg

Retro car show (PiterlandPetersburg)

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