At nearly $10,000, the 1956-57 Continental Mark II was America’s most expensive production car. Virtually every comfort and convenience feature were standard; only air conditioning, at $595.00, was optional. And, to further set it apart, it was designated a Continental, not a Lincoln; as Ford established a separate division to add exclusivity to the luxury marque.

Reportedly, Ford lost thousands of dollars on each one sold. Just 2,550 Mark II’s were sold in 1956 with another 444 produced for the 1957 model year when production was halted in May and the model discontinued.

Despite being an older restoration, the Continental presents beautifully. Restoration was completed in 2000, including finishing the car in its original Deep Bronze over medium bronze and light beige leather. At that time, the car received both its AACA First Junior and Senior Awards. Eleven years later the car was shown at the Santa Fe Concours where it received third place in the Post War American Class. The interior was reupholstered in 1997, though the headliner, flooring and trunk carpet remain as original. The transmission was rebuilt in 2000 and the engine fitted with a 1957 Carter four-barrel carburetor.

According to the consigner, the Continental has known ownership history from new. It was toured as recently as 2011 and the tidy undercarriage shows evidence of very little use. Gauges and accessories such as the electric clock, power seat, and power windows work; as does the original Town & Country AM radio. The original power antenna was replaced with a fixed antenna. In addition, the car is equipped with factory air conditioning.

While the car is equipped with modern radials on replacement wheels, a set of five bias-ply tires on original rims are included for the new owner should he or she wish to show the car. Miscellaneous parts, documents and ownership notes are also included.