For all his flaws, Lee Iacocca was a master salesman. Who knew better than most that by adding some relatively inexpensive automotive “tinsel” to a less prestigious model, he could create a vehicle that would entice the public to splash their cash on a car that offered the company a healthy profit. Such was the case with the 1969 Lincoln Continental Mark III. By taking a Thunderbird and making relatively inexpensive sheetmetal changes, the company produced a car that finally knocked the Cadillac Eldorado off its perch as America’s highest-selling luxury model. This Mark III is an original survivor with 59,000 miles on the clock. It presents nicely, and is a turnkey proposition seeking a new home. The seller has listed the Lincoln here on Craigslist in Webster, New York. It could be yours for $14,987, and I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Mitchell G. for spotting this gem.
Iacocca’s confidence was riding high in 1965 as the world realized what a hit the Mustang was. The man could do no wrong and turned his eye to devising a vehicle that could challenge the Eldorado’s market supremacy. He was aware of budget constraints, directing Design Vice President Gene Bordinat to “put a Rolls-Royce grille on a Thunderbird.” The process was more involved than that, but Iacocca acknowledged that the “Pantheon” grille utilized by Rolls was one of the most recognizable features of a car that many considered set the benchmark in luxury motoring. The original owner ordered this first-year Mark III in Medium Blue with a Black vinyl top. The seller doesn’t mention prior restoration or repairs, suggesting this is an original survivor that has led a sheltered existence. The paint shines nicely, with no evidence of patchiness or serious deterioration. There are minor chips and marks, but nothing that justifies a cosmetic refresh. The vinyl exhibits some wear on the seam edges, but I think it could be revived without needing replacement. There is no visible rust, and the panels feature consistent gaps. The trim and chrome are in good order, and there are no issues with the tinted glass.
The interior shots leave me slightly confused because the first impression is positive. However, close inspection reveals what appears to be some odd deterioration on both front seat backs near the top inner edge. The problem is clearly visible in the above image, and the passenger seat shows a similar potential problem. It could be nothing, or it may indicate deterioration in the Black leather’s tanned surface. Consulting a specialist quickly would be wise if that’s the case because an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure when the subject turns to replacing seatcovers. Otherwise, there is nothing worth criticizing. The remaining upholstered surfaces are impressive, with only a few minor scuffs and marks. The dash and pad are spotless, and there is no carpet wear. Luxury appointments abound in this Continental, with the new owner receiving air conditioning, power windows, power locks, power seats, a tilt wheel, and an AM/FM radio.
Disappointingly, the seller supplies no engine photos. However, ordering a 1969 Mark III brought a 460ci V8, a three-speed automatic transmission, and power assistance for the steering and brakes. Lincoln may have based the Mark III on the Thunderbird, but at 4,744 lbs, it was over 200 lbs heavier than its more humble cousin. The V8 produces 365hp and 500 ft/lbs of torque, and this car needs every available pony to provide respectable performance. The Continental’s initial acceleration figures are marginally slower than an equivalent Eldorado’s, but it could match it for top speed while returning 20% better fuel consumption. That made it a worthy competitor to the all-conquering Cadillac. This Continental is in excellent mechanical health. The seller doesn’t indicate whether they hold evidence for the odometer claim of 59,000 original miles. They recently replaced the tires, filters, fluids, and spark plugs. The car runs and drives perfectly and is a turnkey proposition for its new owner.
The Continental Mark III was one of the most significant models in Lincoln’s history. Its sales success saw it topple the Eldorado from its seat of power for the first time. More importantly, it transformed the company’s fortune, with its bottom line showing a profit after years of losses. It seemed to seal Lee Iacocca’s reputation as an automotive genius, although many will question that due to developments in the 1970s. Our feature car is a tidy survivor, and my only surprise is that it hasn’t found a buyer after over two weeks on the market. Perhaps the wrong eyes have been looking, and it needs a knowledgeable Barn Finds reader to give it a new home. Are you a candidate?
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