300 bhp, 430 cu. in. OHV V-8 engine, three-speed automatic transmission, coil spring independent front suspension, live rear axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs, and four-wheel power hydraulic drum brakes. Wheelbase: 123"

Going into production in November 1960, Lincoln’s new Continental was awarded a coveted Bronze Medal by the Industrial Design Institute—a rarity for an automobile. The new Continental was designed for ease of passenger entry, and the lack of a wrap-around windshield and use of aft-hinged “suicide” rear doors facilitated this. Novel for the time was a four-door convertible body style, the first since the Frazer Manhattan of 1951.

This 1962 Lincoln Continental Convertible was acquired by William Rodina, out of Bridgewater, Connecticut, after a full restoration was done on the car. Gorgeous in triple black, it has the interior wood grain accents characteristic of the early Continental interiors. Contours and paint are all excellent, and the exterior brightwork is of very good quality. The instrument panel, however, retains many of its original, well preserved components. The odometer indicates slightly fewer than 75,000 miles, which are believed to be correct. Since the completion of its restoration, however, no miles have been put on the car, retaining its superb appearance.

The undercoated undercarriage is nicely presented and generally very nice, while the engine bay is highly detailed. Very well appointed, the car has power steering and brakes, air conditioning, and power seats, as well as an AM radio. The top is power-operated and causes a sensation whenever it is raised or lowered. The 1961 to 1969 Lincoln Continentals raised the bar on luxury vehicle design. This example, in triple black, is particularly desirable, the automotive embodiment of a black tie dinner or even a movie premiere.