Vehicle Description
Chassis No. 0Y85H405253
In the spring of 1956, Ford's executive committee made the decision
to discontinue the Continental Mark II and shutter the Continental
Division. This move led to the cancellation of plans for a 1958
Continental Mark III. Instead, the Continental and Mark III names
were transferred to the Lincoln Division, which introduced a new,
more competitively priced series of vehicles. This transition set
the stage for the 1958 Continental Mark III, 1959 Mark IV, and
ultimately, the 1960 Mark V. These models epitomized American
automotive excess of the late 1950s, showcasing Ford's first
post-war unibody design. The Mark V's imposing 131 inch wheelbase
necessitated a powerful 430 cu-in V8 engine, refined to 315
horsepower in 1960 for improved fuel efficiency. Its titanic
proportions place it among the largest sedans ever produced by Ford
Motor Company or any American manufacturer.
For 1960, the Continental Mark V also received notable aesthetic
changes, distinguishing it from its Mark III and IV predecessors.
These included flatter front bumpers with iconic "Dagmar"
protrusions, relocated Mark V badging, and four horizontal chrome
spears on the front fenders. A redesigned grille, an exquisitely
crafted one-year-only dashboard, and completely revised rear
styling further set the 1960 model apart. Mechanical refinements
included a transition to a leaf spring rear suspension and
relocated fuse box for improved accessibility.
This handsome 1960 Lincoln Continental Mark V Convertible,
resplendent in period-correct Cherokee Red, was formerly part of
the renowned Kughn Collection. A single control folds the white
vinyl soft top under a motorized rear deck panel and retracts the
power glass rear window, leaving a sleek unbroken line and
revealing its opulent interior. Luxuriously upholstered in rich red
leather, the cabin features an engine-turned dashboard with Space
Age-inspired instrumentation and a period-correct Town & Country
radio, while six-way power-operated seats offer supreme comfort.
This exquisite example also features the only option available to
Continental Mark V buyers in 1960: air conditioning.
Acquired by the consignor in 2016, this beautifully preserved
Continental subsequently received an Antique Automobile Club of
America (AACA) Junior Award in 2017, followed by a Senior Award in
2018 at the Winter Meet in Mobile, Alabama. It is accompanied by
its spare wheel, jack, and an owner's manual. Representing the
zenith of Lincoln's most flamboyant era, this Continental Mark V
offers its next custodian a superb blend of period charm and
effortless cruising. A fine addition to any collection of American
automobiles, this Mark V presents an opportunity to acquire a true
icon of mid-century automotive design - an era when American luxury
knew no bounds.
