Although manufacturers focused on smaller and more efficient models during the 1970s, it was still possible to buy what is often referred to as a Land Yacht at the end of the decade. This 1979 Lincoln Continental Town Car perfectly encapsulates that philosophy because, with an overall length of over nineteen feet and a 400ci V8 under the hood, it is anything but small. This classic is a genuine survivor, and with only 40,000 miles on the clock, it should offer a new owner years of reliable luxury motoring. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Barney for spotting the Lincoln listed here on Craigslist in Vancouver, Washington. With an asking price of $11,500, you can’t say that the buyer isn’t getting a lot of car for their cash.
Lincoln aimed to reduce the size of its Fifth Generation Continental range when it hit the market for the 1970 model year. However, the introduction of 5-mph bumpers eventually made these the longest cars produced to that point by any of Ford’s marques. The Fifth Generation remained in production until 1979, with our feature car rolling off the line during the final model year. It is a one-owner survivor that the seller ordered in Wedgewood Blue with a matching vinyl top and the optional forged aluminum wheels. Faulting its presentation is seemingly impossible at first glance, but a close inspection reveals that the passenger-side taillight is broken. That isn’t a deal-breaker because I easily located an excellent OEM replacement for under $110. The seller uses the term “no major accidents” in their description, suggesting that this Continental may have experienced some minor hits in its time. However, the paint shines nicely, the vinyl looks excellent, and there is no evidence or mention of rust.
One of the most profound changes to the 1979 Continental range was the deletion of the 460ci V8 as an option. This left the 400ci powerplant as the only engine, which the company teamed with a three-speed automatic transmission and power-assisted steering and front disc brakes. The impact of emission regulations was graphically demonstrated by the Continental, with the 400 generating 159hp and 315 ft/lbs of torque. Those figures don’t sound too bad by the standards of the day, but with the V8 being asked to shift 4,800 lbs, acceleration wasn’t exactly brisk. However, cruising effortlessly on the open road was the Town Car’s forte, even if doing so resulted in it drinking from its tank at a rate of around 11 mpg. The seller states that this gem has been regularly maintained, recently receiving a new battery and a fluid change. They claim that the Continental has a genuine 40,000 miles showing on its odometer without mentioning verifying evidence. The ownership history and Service Records might remove any lingering doubts for potential buyers. Otherwise, it appears that this Lincoln is a turnkey proposition with no mechanical needs.
One of the defining interior features of American luxury cars from this era was the use of “pillow” seat cushions, and this Lincoln doesn’t fall short on that front. The Wedgewood Blue theme set by the exterior continues inside this classic, with the seller choosing that shade in Valleao velour cloth and vinyl. The lack of visible wear is consistent with the claimed odometer reading, while the absence of broken or crumbling plastic suggests the car has remained sheltered from UV exposure. It is refreshing to find no aftermarket additions, with the Town Car retaining all of its original factory equipment. This includes the air conditioning, power operation for the windows, locks, seats, and antenna, cruise control, a tilt wheel, and an AM/FM stereo radio/8-track player.
The classic world has something to suit every taste, and if your leanings are towards luxury, this 1979 Lincoln Continental Town Car would seem to tick that box. Its unmolested state makes it very attractive, and its overall condition is hard to fault. The fact is that it is about as relevant in the current automotive environment as a slide rule is in the age of the microchip, but some people are still happy to use a slide rule. If you yearn to escape from life’s hustle and bustle to move at a more sedate pace, doing so behind the wheel of this Lincoln could be a great way to achieve that goal.
Leisure suit and platform shoes sold separately
Good write-up Adam. “The fact is that it is about as relevant in the current automotive environment as a slide rule is in the age of the microchip…” is, I think, why I like it. It’s oppressively huge, the Wedgewood Blue paint is rather “loud” (with the blue them carried everywhere), it gets terrible mileage, its performance would be leisurely, it would handle like the boat it is, the list goes on.
But on the other hand, it would smoothly and quietly and effortlessly motor down the interstate, commanding attention all the while. A fine example of luxury American motoring in the late 70’s, a time of change in the industry.
This one is a keeper. My mom & dad owned one like this except theirs had the leather interior. The same color, the same wheels, the vinyl roof. When I hit hard times they loaned it to me and needless to say it was the longest car in the parking lot at work.
Just in time for me to comment! As I’ve frequently stated, It’s HUGE! It guzzles gas! It pollutes the air! It scares the birds! Other cars part like the Red Sea 🌊 to get out of the way! What’s NOT to love? Having the pleasure of once owning a 78 Town Coupe (with 460 V8),IMO these were the epitome of OTT excessively chromed upscale Luxury vehicles. We didn’t worry, just felt invincible driving down the road, looking out over acres of sculptured hood focused by the Lincoln hood ornament. How I wish I had never let it go. This one is a twin for one owned since new and frequently drawing positive attention. I’ve since owned 89 Town Car Signature Series and current 2007 Town Car Signature Limited, as well as other upscale vehicles. The Town Cars were the best, with these gargantuan beasts at the top of MY list. It truly demonstrates LINCOLN! What a Luxury CAR should be and ONCE was. Got to love the Devine Decadence! 👍. The only issue with THIS (like all 79 Lincolns) offered only the 400, which still provides enough power for a leisurely cruise. My current low mileage Town Car Signature Limited is the last gasp of traditional American Luxury CARS. If my health were better, I’d be in hot pursuit of this Bon Marche. Respectfully submitted (somewhat alive) on behalf of The GREAT AMERICAN LAND YACHT PRESERVATION SOCIETY.
Hey Rick, good to hear from you. Are you sure part of your comment (about the hood & ornament) wasn’t also part of the dealer brochure back then? LOL!
I like this one better than the white one on BF about 5 weeks ago. As Adam said, get the tailight on ebay or someplace, & you’re in business. Love this color in & out. Too bad the gubmint forced such a downsize in engine hp along with every other vehicle.
A late friend of mine had a dark green Town Car, the year which escapes me but similar to this one. His had power vents, too. One night he made his way home after a few adult pops, ran off the road but managed to get back on just before he went into a fast running creek! No damage to the car or him, fortunately.
Jon, I’m sure it’s no surprise that I have 3 file drawers full of advertising brochures. Among those are multiple LINCOLN, Cadillac and other upscale. I believe that it’s 1978 Continental and Town Car that features an unmistakable TOM SELLECK with a two tone gray Town Car. A far cry from the Ferrari Magnum drove. A blessed Easter weekend to you and ALL Barn Finders! ✝️ Always remember, You’re No bunny, till some bunny loves you. 🐰
To Rick W below, thank you Rick & the same to you & your family. Don’t put all of your eggs in one basket.
I only have 4 brochures. the ’70 full size Chevrolet, ’72 full size Chevrolet, & a ’66 Chevrolet pickup, & ’84 Olds Cutlass.
Kind of fun when I was in 9th grade, I typed up 2 “proposals”, in the pattern of a window sticker, of a choice of new cars I wanted my Dad to buy; a ’70 Impala or ’70 Caprice, both 4-door hardtops from the local dealer. That’s about as far as those ideas went too! LOL!
Hope you’re feeling better.
Great comments. Just great.
Gee! Life’s a GAS! TANKS! 🤣
Bad Grandpa Knocksville would love it.
Don’t KNOCK,if you ain’t tried it! Like woolen underwear, To itch his own! 😲 👍 I’m STILL Thinkin Lincoln 🏆
Nice car, its longer and more powerful than some of the full size trucks they build today
I’m thinkin’ Elvis, in his later years.
That is one nice Land Yacht!!!
WAY over priced – worth maybe half that.
I’d love to buy this and cruise Route 66 with it from Illinois to California.
When you are driving such a big car as this who cares about gas mileage. It’s too bad luxury cars of today will never be as luxurious and as comfortable as these these cars from this era.
I’ve owned several Town Cars and Coupes this vintage. I still have stretch marks on my face from yawning so much from the comfort and quiet in driving them. IMO Lincoln died when they discontinued the land yachts.
11mpg! My Corrola hybrid gets 55mpg. But, I know, apples and oranges, I actually like these crazy cars, be fun if you don’t put many miles per week on it and have an aircraft hangar to park it.
these are great cruising cars that are super comfortable an very roomy, almost like driving your living room around town…. there are very few cars that are as comfortable and roomy on long rides, these new cars are crap and on a long trip u will feel a major difference from all over your body…but of course that comes with a price gas mileage is not good Remember there is a price to pay for all that luxury and convience , lastly this is not a car to be driven on a regular basis only on special occasions and on the weekend this example looks to be in great original condition and at a great price!!