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.