17k Original Miles: 1972 Lincoln Continental Mark IV

Lincoln knew that the Continental Mark III was a tough act to follow, thanks to its sales success. However, the Mark IV proved a worthy successor, exceeding the company’s wildest expectations. This Mark IV rolled off the line in 1972, and it is fair to say it has led a sheltered life. It has rarely seen action, with its odometer showing 17,000 original miles. It presents superbly and is ideal for enthusiasts seeking a high-end survivor. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting the Lincoln listed here on eBay in Mesa, Arizona. Handing over $27,900 would allow you to drive away in this turnkey classic.

Lincoln released the Continental Mark IV in 1972, continuing the trend set by its predecessor of platform sharing with the Ford Thunderbird. It represented a canny business move, lowering the development costs for what was a prestige model. This Mark IV is a first-year example that presents beautifully. The original owner combined Pastel Lime paint with a Dark Green vinyl top, creating an extremely attractive vehicle. The seller supplies an excellent image gallery, with the close-up shots revealing only a few minor imperfections. However, they aren’t visible from a few feet away, guaranteeing that this unrestored survivor will receive positive comments wherever it goes. The dry location has protected this classic from rust, and a garage-kept history has protected the paint from deterioration. The trim is spotless, and the tinted glass is crystal clear.

Lincoln adopted a “one size fits all” philosophy with the Mark IV’s mechanical specifications. Buyers received a 460ci V8, a three-speed C6 automatic transmission, power steering, and power brakes with rear anti-lock. The V8 developed 212hp and 342 ft/lbs of torque when this car was shiny and new, with both figures quite modest given a curb weight of almost 5,000 lbs. Therefore, performance would be relatively leisurely, although the motor’s low-end torque delivery would have made city traffic and open-road overtaking relatively effortless. The seller claims this Lincoln has a genuine 17,000 miles on the clock, but they don’t mention any documentation. It retains its correct accessories, belts, hoses, and an older set of Michelin tires identical to those the car would have worn when it left the factory. This Lincoln runs and drives well, with no identified needs or shortcomings.

The positive vibes created by this Lincoln’s exterior continue into the interior. The Dark Green leather trim matches the vinyl top and is free from wear. It carries the wrinkles of gracefully aging leather and is consistent with the mileage claim. The carpet is spotless, as are the headliner, dash, pad, and woodgrain trim. Did someone mention luxury? This Mark IV covers those bases with air conditioning, power windows, power front seats, cruise control, a Cartier clock, and an AM radio/8-track player. It isn’t fully loaded, but life aboard this classic will still feel pretty special.

Lincoln rode the crest of a wave in 1971, with the Mark III setting a new sales record of 27,091 vehicles. The company must have thought that life couldn’t get much better, but the Mark IV raised the bar considerably. Lincoln sold 48,591 examples in 1972, with the tally peaking at 69,437 in 1973. Because it was based on the Thunderbird, the low development cost allowed Lincoln to make a considerable profit on every vehicle. This first-year Mark IV is a beauty, and would suit enthusiasts seeking a spotless 1970s luxury car from an era when fuel costs mattered little. If you fit that mold, this Mark IV deserves a closer look.