The Allied victory in 1945 signaled, in many respects, a return to normalcy for the U.S. auto industry. For the Ford Motor Company in particular this meant the reintroduction of its heralded super-luxurious Lincoln Continental. First introduced in 1939 to Edsel Ford’s fellow Floridian snowbirds, the Continental’s design withstood a five-year wartime hiatus and was revived from 1946 to 1948 with slightly revised grille and headlamp treatments. Featuring a formidable twelve-cylinder engine and European styling worthy of Museum of Modern Art’s praise, the Continental was exceedingly elegant yet simple with its relative lack of chrome. The 1948 convertibles and coupes, as the few others that preceded it, had a long hood and fenders with a short trunk, displaying the signature external spare tire. Acquiring such a car required a sizeable pocketbook, exceptional taste, and supposedly even the approval of its discerning dealers.

This Continental is reportedly an original California car in remarkably factory correct condition. It still has its original leather interior and has only had one very well done repaint in its correct color. Some equipment on the car includes an overdrive transmission, V-12 engine, hydraulic windows, Continental kit, period whitewall tires, rear skirts, power antenna and factory radio. The body is in excellent condition as is the maroon paint that covers it. The chrome has likely never been re-plated and has a great patina. This is the perfect Lincoln for someone that desires a fun classic car to enjoy, and it is in ideal condition to use and enjoy. Over the last 16 years, the current owner has performed extensive maintenance on the automobile, so it runs and drives perfectly.

In their day, these Lincoln Continentals stood alongside Cadillac as the ultimate American luxury cars - big, bold, and largely hand-built. Particularly unique however, is the unusual story of their introduction and unfortunate, but temporary retreat. As the last of the great V-12-powered Lincolns, the 1948 Continental was a car whose character and luxury could have impressed even Jay Gatsby.