Rather than remaking the original Lincoln Continental for the 1950s, Ford Motor Company chose an entirely new design. The work of John Reinhart and Gordon Buehrig, it was consigned to a new Continental Division headed by William Clay Ford, youngest of Edsel Ford’s three sons. Although not given the name “Lincoln” by Ford, it is generally considered as such by the public. The Continental Mark II was a long and low car with proportions similar to the first Thunderbirds while paying homage to the Continental of the 1940s with the trunk lid molded to the shape of the spare tire concealed within. Under the four-point star mounted on the hood rests a 300 horsepower, 368-cid V-8 and a three-speed automatic transmission. Predominantly handmade, the Mark II was a product of exceptional craftsmanship. Only the very finest materials were used throughout and the instrumentation displayed the precision of a finely crafted watch.

This Continental Mk II is equipped with the only factory option offered: air conditioning. It has all the standard features, including windshield washers, a clock and a radio; power window, brakes and steering. It is, overall, in very good condition throughout, contours, paint, brightwork and interior. The brown-and-beige leather interior shows a modicum of use, but is entirely presentable and attractive. The engine compartment is clean and correctly detailed. The undercarriage shows some use, and appears original. The Firestone blackwall radial tires are unusual on a car of this type, and accentuate the purity of design.