Some paint and trim combinations are ageless, while others are very much of their time. The latter is probably true for this 1977 Lincoln Continental Mark V. In a modern market dominated by White exteriors and varying shades of Gray inside, this Triple-Green classic is sure to turn heads and draw crowds. Adding to its appeal is the seller’s claim that it has a genuine 27,000 miles on its odometer. If that can be verified, it means that this classic should offer its new owner years of comfortable and luxurious motoring. We always appreciate input from our readers, and I must say a big thank you to eagle-eyed Barn Finder Mitchell G. for spotting this stunning survivor.

The automotive landscape changed markedly during the 1970s, with American manufacturers forced to focus on safety and emission compliance. The “land yachts” that once represented the embodiment of wealth and status were rendered largely irrelevant, and Lincoln wasn’t immune from this trend. It released the Continental Mark V in 1977, with many viewing it as the last “large” Lincoln. It perfectly suited the taste of Ford President, Lee Iacocca, and the Mark V is often considered his last hurrah before his inelegant exit from the company. Our feature Continental is a first-year example finished in a stunning combination of Dark Jade Green with a vinyl top in a slightly lighter shade that matches the pinstripe. What this car lacks is subtlety. It is bold and brash, declaring to the world that its owner is successful and isn’t afraid to show it. Faulting its presentation is challenging, with the paint holding an excellent shine, and the panels laser-stright. There is no evidence of rust or bubbles beneath the vinyl that might be harbingers of doom. The trim is in good order, and the tinted glass is spotless.

The Triple-Green theme continues inside this Lincoln, with the first owner selecting two-tone leather to coat its upholstered surfaces. As with the exterior, finding faults is virtually impossible, with the seats showing nothing beyond the character creases of aging leather. I doubt the back seat has ever seen service, while the carpet, dash, and pad, are impressively clean. Of course, a luxury car deserves creature comforts, and this Mark V delivers within a 1977 context. The new owner receives air conditioning, power windows, power locks, power seats, a tilt wheel, remote mirrors, and an AM/FM radio/8-track player.

The 1977 model year signaled the first signs of change for the Continental, with the Mark IV’s standard 460ci V8 becoming an option on the new Mark V. This car features the new entry-level 400ci V8, developing 179hp and 329 ft/lbs of torque. A three-speed automatic was the only available transmission, while power-assisted steering and brakes were standard fare. The curb weight of 4,839 lbs demonstrated that Lincoln focused heavily on luxury at the expense of performance, although it is fair to say that most buyers were more concerned about quietness and isolation, and not how fast their new purchase could complete a ¼-mile sprint. I am disappointed by the lack of information supplied by the seller, especially considering their claim that this Mark V has a genuine 27,000 miles on its odometer. They don’t mention verifying evidence or supply an insight into how this classic runs and drives. However, their use of the term “excellent” in their description suggests there should be no problems or issues facing the new owner.

The automotive industry is sometimes difficult to fathom. We live in an era where manufacturers are being more bold and daring than ever with engineering and development, embracing zero-emission and composite technologies to maximize performance and efficiency. And yet, many have lost the desire to adopt the same approach with paint and trim, which are the most visible attributes of the models they offer. That is why I like this 1977 Lincoln Continental Mark V. The company didn’t tread a safe path, blessing this classic with an appearance that would undoubtedly draw crowds at a show or Cars & Coffee. The seller has listed it here on Craigslist in East Longmeadow, Massachusetts. It could be yours simply by handing them $17,000, which represents a lot of car for your cash. Do we have any readers who are bold enough to pursue this Lincoln further? I wish you luck if you do.