1969 Lincoln Continental-Mark III
"The most authoritatively styled, decisively individual motor car of this generation"
Our Lincoln is a one "family" owned car since it was bought at Himes Lincoln-Mercury in Hackensack, NJ in the spring of '69. It was purchased for my grandmother, Mary. It's been garage-kept since new and continues to beat the odds of time, as she is still original inside and out and only driven about 11,000 miles. My dad and myself have taken it to local shows in Central New Jersey and won several best in show awards. In September 1999, the car won 3rd Place at the LCOC meet at Ellenville, NY.
Since my dad has owned the car, all repairs and parts are OEM or equivalent. It is his desire to preserve the original nature of the car. If it were my car, I would add an electronic ignition system, heavier spark plug wires, and actually change the fan belts. In the last 20 years, we have had to replace the fuel lines, the fuel level sensor, ignition lock, radiator hoses, the left headlamp door motor, exhaust system, left brake drum, and the tires and wheels.
The 1968-1969 Mark III is considered to be the best year for performance and overall quality. The workers at the Wixom plant took much pride and special care in building each 1969 Mk III. The 1970-71 was not under such a watchful eye . The totally new Continental IMCO engine was computer-designed to meet federal emissions standards which resulted in improved efficiency, exceptional fuel mileage, and reduced tailpipe emissions without a smog pump, (however, they were added to the 1970-71.) 460ci V8, 10.5:1 comp, 365HP, 500 ft/lbs of torque @2800RPM, 4 BBL Autolite 4300 4-V 617cfm carburetor, breaker-point ignition with vacuum and centrifugal advance, Autolite spark plugs, Select Shift Turbo-Drive (C-6) 3speed automatic transmission, 2.80:1 limited slip rear, dual exhausts.
Other options: automatic climate control, A/C, rear reading lamps, power windows, power antenna, AM mono radio, 2-way power driver and passenger seats, rear ventilation, Cartier dashboard clock with roman numerals, warning lamp system, full vinyl roof.
Starting in 1961, Lincoln produced one model as a result of the near-failure of the division in the late '50s. Through the '60s the Continental was Ford's premium luxury car and it grew in popularity with its suicide doors and conservative styling and performance. The release of the Mark III was executed at the right time; at the height of the musclecar era and the press and the public were eager to get behind the wheel. In 1969, it was an exceptionally equipped vehicle: a two-door car with leather interior, a very smooth luxury-car ride, a long list of options to choose from, and the latest and largest Ford engine; one that runs and idles quietly, yet reminds you there are 460 cubes under the hood when you step on the gas.
For further information, press articles, and reviews on the Continental Mark III check out http://www.lincolnversailles.com/LCM3/LCM3%20Home.htm
My 2nd ride, a 1986 Pontiac Parisienne Brougham is for sale at $2150, check it out http://www.cardomain.com/ride/2446968. I also have created a page for my 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme http://www.cardomain.com/ride/3322785. Thanks a lot for looking and visiting my pages ! !
--vinaay--
