It sometimes seems that luxury and affordability are mutually exclusive. However, this 1979 Lincoln Versailles demonstrates that not only is it possible to have your cake and eat it, but the classic in question can be a low-mileage survivor. This Lincoln presents extremely well, and with proven Ford mechanical components and a mere 45,000 miles showing on its odometer, it should still be plying our roads for many years. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Tony P. for spotting the Versailles listed here on Craigslist in Goldsboro, North Carolina. The seller set their price at $5,995, meaning that someone is going to get a lot for their money.
Lincoln once again demonstrated the benefits of badge engineering when it introduced the Versailles for the 1977 model year. It based its latest offering on the Ford Granada platform, allowing for minimal development costs and a short timeframe between conception and delivery. The company made its only major cosmetic change to the Versailles in 1979, adding a fiberglass roof cap with vinyl covering, creating a more formal appearance which differentiated it from its more humble Ford cousin. Finished in Code 9D White with matching vinyl, this Versailles presents extremely well for a survivor-grade vehicle. The paint retains a warm glow, but there is a slight mystery on the driver’s side. A couple of shots seem to show paint inconsistency on the front door. This may be evidence of a previous repair, though it could also be nothing more than an optical illusion. It would be worth asking the seller about it or negotiating an in-person inspection to remove lingering doubts. Otherwise, the panels are straight, and there are no signs of rust. The trim and glass are in good order, as are the alloy wheels.
This Lincoln’s interior should satisfy those seeking affordable luxury. It features air conditioning, leather trim, power windows, power locks, power front seats, remote mirrors, cruise control, a rear defogger, a tilt wheel, and an AM/FM radio/cassette player. The presentation is extremely tidy, with no significant wear or other shortcomings. The leather looks supple, and the carpet looks surprisingly good for its age. The seller converted the A/C to R134a refrigerant, and the system blows ice-cold.
Below this Lincoln’s skin is a pure Ford drivetrain. It features a 302ci V8, a three-speed automatic transmission, power steering, and power brakes. This V8 demonstrates the impact of tighter emission regulations, producing a factory-quoted 130hp and 237 ft/lbs of torque. Naturally, the Versailles is a modest performer, but it should still hold its own in city traffic or on the open road. The seller claims it has a genuine 45,000 miles on the clock without mentioning verifying evidence. They recently fitted new tires to a classic that is a turnkey proposition.
The 1979 model year proved to be the most successful for the Lincoln Versailles. The company sold 21,007 cars, and the badge would remain on sale for one final year before disappearing into the dusty pages of automotive history. Lincoln made that decision because the annual tally fell short of expectations, with Cadillac’s Seville consistently leaving Lincoln in the dust. This Versailles is a tidy survivor that should offer its new owner years of reliable motoring. It has only been on the market for a short while, but do you think it will find a home at the asking price?
This money will buy you a 15 year old Honda Accord or Toyota Camry. I would rather drive the Lincoln. Nice find Primo.
Very reasonably priced. They must be motivated to sell, unlike others who put few decent pictures (especially engine and undercarriage pics), little or no major details like what engine, or priced as if it were made out of solid gold for the Queen’s personal use.