By the mid-1950s, America’s post-war appetite for new cars had been sated, and manufacturers were looking for new niches. Lincoln, Ford’s flagship marque, had slipped farther and farther behind archrival Cadillac in sales. Although successful in competition, scoring well in the Carrera Panamericana race series in Mexico, Lincoln had lost prestige after discontinuation of the iconic Continental model in 1949.

Hoping to regain the Continental’s prestige, Ford created a whole new organization, designated simply “Continental Division,” headed by Edsel Ford’s youngest son, William. Designers John Reinhart and Gordon Buehrig were given the brief to update the Continental idiom. The result was a clean and understated coupé with the Continental’s hallmark rear-mounted spare appearing as a vestigial “bustle.”

At $10,000 the Continental (not actually badged as a Lincoln but sold through their dealers) was the most expensive American car of 1956. Sales, however, were limited and the model was discontinued after 1957. Fewer than 3,000 were built, making the Continental a rare sight even when new.

This example has been fully restored to original specifications inside and out. It is reported to have a rebuilt 368-cid, 285-hp V-8 engine and runs and drives extremely well. It has a desirable air conditioning system which will make a wonderful road car for the next fortunate owner.