For the Ford Motor Company, cars like this 1972 Continental Mark IV occupy an important place in automotive history. These cars were a triumph of badge engineering while also allowing the Continental to continue to outsell Cadillac’s Eldorado. This one is an unmolested survivor that has sat for over a decade. However, it is a solid and complete vehicle that should represent a straightforward restoration project. A new home is beckoning, with the seller listing it exclusively at Barn Finds Auctions.

Lincoln knew the successful Continental Mark III would be a tough act to follow, but they hit the nail on the head with the 1972 Mark IV. As with its predecessor, the Mark IV was built on the Thunderbird platform, utilizing different sheet metal to provide a unique appearance. It was badge engineering at its finest because the development costs were minimal, but the company could sell its flagship luxury car at a healthy premium. In 1972, Lincoln sold 48,591 examples of the Mark IV, with Cadillac’s Eldorado reaching 40,074. This Mark IV is from the first year’s production, with some notable differences from those built in subsequent years. The most obvious was radically smaller bumpers, as car manufacturers weren’t required to grapple with the dreaded 5mph bumpers until 1973. The smaller bumpers provide a more refined and integrated look, helping explain why cars from this year remain a firm favorite with enthusiasts. The seller says the previous owner purchased the vehicle from a charity in 2008, planning on performing a total restoration. Sadly, he passed away in 2012, and the car has sat in this storage facility ever since. It has a few shortcomings, but nothing that would be beyond the abilities of a competent person in a home workshop. The Code 4P Medium Green paint is baked, but the dry location means any rust is limited to a few spots of dry surface corrosion. All Mark IVs featured a vinyl top, although this one is shredded. However, with high-quality replacements retailing for around $270, addressing that issue won’t break the bank. The trim is in good order, as is the glass. The Continental rolls on later Town Car wheels, but they don’t look out of place. This 1972 Mark IV may be a big car, but tackling its cosmetic shortcomings should be straightforward and no more complicated than for any other vehicle from this era.

When any car tips the scales at 4,993 lbs, it needs something special under the hood if progress is to be anything but glacial. Lincoln delivered by slipping a 460ci V8 into the engine bay, giving the driver 212hp under their right foot. Shifting duties fell to a three-speed C6 automatic transmission, while the Continental further cemented its luxury credentials courtesy of power assistance for the steering and brakes. Although most owners were unconcerned about the Mark IV’s ability to cover the ¼-mile in 18.1 seconds, its ability to float quietly and effortlessly on the open road or in the hustle and bustle of city traffic won it many friends. The seller says the car hasn’t started in ten years, although revival might not be difficult. It has a genuine 68,000 miles on the clock, meaning it could offer its new owner years of reliable classic motoring pleasure. Chances are the biggest challenge to getting this one running will be replacing the ignition switch, as the keys are missing and someone attempted to drill out the switch to get the car started.

Examining the interior photos leads me to agree with the seller’s assessment that the first thing required is a deep clean. The upholstered surfaces show promise under a layer of dust, with the same true of the carpet. There are shortcomings the buyer might elect to address, including cracks on the wheel and dash pad. If the winning bidder wishes to stick to a strict budget, a trip to a pick-a-part or patiently scouring the usual online auction sites could help locate any required items for a fraction of the new price. It is a strategy worth considering, but only after everything is cleaned and inspected. The seller indicates someone has drilled the ignition during a failed attempted theft. Locating a replacement shouldn’t be difficult using the strategies I just described. For those craving luxuries, this interior delivers. It features air conditioning, power windows, a six-way power driver’s seat, a remote driver’s mirror, and an AM radio with a power antenna.

Car manufacturers do not exist to lose money. A healthy bottom line is the aim, and Ford suffered for years with the loss-making Lincoln-Mercury Division. It turned the corner with the introduction of the Continental Mark III in 1969. The Mark IV cemented that success, allowing the company also to continue achieving its goal of producing a car that could consistently outsell rival Cadillac’s Eldorado. This Mark IV needs love, but its complete nature makes it an ideal restoration candidate. If you are searching for a project car that will provide a luxurious motoring experience when you down tools for the final time, submitting a bid on this classic could be the best place to start.

• Location: Las Vegas, Nevada
• Mileage: 68,000 miles
• Engine: 460ci V8
• Transmission: Automatic
• VIN: 2Y89A854807
• Title Status: Clean

Bid On This Auction

• History (5 bids)