285 hp, 302 cu. in. Ford Motorsport Mustang V-8, four-speed automatic transmission with overdrive, Mustang independent front suspension and posi-traction rear axle with leaf springs and air ride, four-wheel power disc brakes. Wheelbase: 125"

• Award-winning restoration

• Offered from a noted private collection

• Proceeds to benefit the Lincoln Motorcar Foundation Museum building fund

About 15 years ago a Florida collector with some 20 Lincolns chose this example as the basis for a modification project. While utilizing its original sheet metal, chassis and standard-height windshield, the top was chopped and modified by filling the rear quarter windows and rounding the front windows and frames in a manner similar to that of the Packard Darrin.

Under the hood was installed a 302-cubic inch, 285-horsepower crate motor with chrome and polished aluminum goodies including “Lincoln Continental” script valve covers. The Ford four-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is coupled to a posi-traction rear with 4:10 gears. The Mustang suspension is equipped with disc brakes and special offset wheels manufactured to accept the original Continental hubcaps.

Creature comforts included the addition of a Vintage Air air conditioning system, a Hydro-Boost braking system and power options including steering, windows, locks, trunk lid and cruise control. It even has a key fob security system, power-heated outside mirrors and an inside rearview mirror with compass and temperature displays. A major priority was a seating arrangement that would accommodate the owner’s 6-foot, 3-inch frame. The new seats and center console came from a Cadillac Eldorado and sport power adjustments including one for lumbar support. An AM/FM cassette player is mounted in location of the original radio.

Also included are a space-saver spare tire under the rear seat and a scissor-jack so the original spare tire cover requires no removal. To protect the superb cosmetic detailing, the owner commissioned a custom bra to protect the front end on the highway. The underside has also received the same degree of detailing, and the rear taillights, brake lights and a special light in the center of the continental kit are LEDs.

The current owner, a noted collector of Ford products, acquired this Continental about nine years ago, after which he made significant upgrades and improvements to the ride and performance of the car, which currently only shows about 3,500 miles since the build was completed. It was shown in 2006 at the LCOC Eastern National Meet and was awarded the Best Modified Custom Trophy, a testament to the quality of cosmetic and mechanical workmanship employed. Proceeds from the car’s sale will benefit the Lincoln Motorcar Foundation Museum building fund.