A day ago, we profiled a 1957 Continental Mk II from the larger-than-life JC Daniels collection. Daniels collected Lincolns and Continentals in copious quantities – all of which were sold off in a no-reserve auction run by RM in 2003. Hundreds of these formerly swanky cars found new owners, including many non-running examples useful only for parts. The condition of most was suspect at best. At least two of these cars were purchased by one O.B. “Pete” Burton, a nearby dealer. This 1962 Lincoln was driven the 42 miles to Burton’s dealership in Wheeler, Texas, maintained for a few years in running condition, then stored from 2008 on. Now offered for sale here on eBay, with bidding at $5100, reserve not met, this majestic luxury car has reportedly clocked only 5123 original miles.
This is the same seller who does not live near the car and won’t provide any photos other than what’s already present in the listing. Consequently, we’re stuck with no view of the engine bay. The seller notes that the car doesn’t run, but the motor is “not seized”. The 1962 Lincoln Continental received Ford’s Mercury-Edsel-Lincoln (MEL) 430 cu. in. V8, a configuration first introduced in 1958. Output was a respectable 300 hp in ’62, while torque rang in at 465 lb-ft. The engine was mated to a three-speed Turbo-Drive automatic. Every ounce of performance was required to motivate the 5000 lb car to move off the line.
No effort was spared at the factory to produce a vehicle that would please the choosiest of buyers: standard features included power windows, power door locks, AM radio, power steering, power brakes, and pillow seat padding. Comfort options were limited to air conditioning, tinted glass, and power seats. The Lincoln Continental also offered two mechanical options: a limited-slip differential and an early form of cruise control. Of course, seat fabrics and paint colors were abundant. Buyers could also opt for wood veneer trim in the cabin, rather than aluminum.
The fourth-generation Lincoln was a breath of fresh air after the awkwardly styled third-gen cars, with their 131″ wheelbase; quad, slanted headlamps; fussy panels; and vestigial fins. The clean, downsized Lincoln introduced in 1961 became an instant classic, and today, this model has reached near cult status. Outstanding original sedans will sell between $80k and $100k; add 100% for convertibles. And if it’s a tasteful restomod – the sky’s the limit. Without an in-person inspection, it’s impossible to know what you’re buying here, but these cars are becoming scarce, and there’s plenty of headroom to spend money on a restoration. Would you want to revive this classic Lincoln?
Nope. Even with its low mileage, they are a nightmare to service compared to say, a Galaxie and they will never grace my shop again. Hard lesson learned.
I know Chrysler had “autopilot” in 1958, and it was a very competent one by Perfect Circle. So by 1962 cruise control was fairly mature. I didn’t know the sedans could sell so high (if properly restored.)
$10,700 and didn’t crack the reserve. my opinion is that’s about what it’s worth in current condition, i can’t tell if that is a rock or a rodent dropping on the floor in one of the pictures. i think if the seller wants more than the $10,700 bid, they should clean it up and get it road worthy
And take a few photos that matter.
listing ended. i doubt those are original miles. i would say rollover.
agreed, look at the drivers seat. No way
“fuggedaboudit”
justa market tester.
some do this trial B 4 going onto some
dedicated hours/effort. They have thoughts
that “This project could inspire on going rest0 interest.
I wonder if I’d get paid for my time. Lets see (compaired
to others I’ve researched) if if I could get re-paid: well? ok? not?”
While I love most cars ( including AMC’s and Studebakers), I especially love this generation of Lincoln Continental. Gorgeous!
I agree: I think these cars are elegantly designed. In fact, it was their clean, slab-sided beauty that induced me to buy one, decades ago. But soon after my purchase, I realized my attraction had been limited to the car’s aesthetics. For compared with a ’62 Cadillac that I also owned, the Continental proved sluggish, this despite a huge engine that consumed vast amounts of premium fuel. Also, the car’s handling qualities were inferior to the Cadillac’s. Whereas I prefer quicker response and minimal body roll, the trade-off of a highly cushioned, mattress-like ride didn’t appeal to me.
That’s normal. The Lincoln had a 430 with only 300 hp and the Cadillac had a 390 with 325 hp so of course the Cadillac is a little bit faster as usual.
Bought one just like this in 1972 when I was in highschool from an elderly lady .It was really nice for a 10 year old car. Paid $275 for it. That’s the good old days.
Add this one to the Jack Daniels collection. You’ll need it.
Bidding ended on Fri, Jun 12 at 3:22 PM.
US $10,700.00
65 bids
Reserve not met