Long appreciated for its timeless design, the short-lived 1956–1957 Continental was the epitome of luxury and style. The classic profile, with its simulated rear spare, was reminiscent of its predecessor. To add exclusivity to the largely hand-built Mark II, Ford established a separate Continental division distinct from the Lincoln brand. As the upper class began to seek higher levels of luxury in daily life, being as comfortable as possible while motoring around town or on the highway became a requisite; the new Continental, delivered that with style and elegance.

At a starting price of $10,000, the Mark II was the most expensive American car in 1956. Just 2,550 examples were delivered that year and 444 in 1957. With a wheelbase of 126 inches and a weight of nearly 5,200 pounds, the Continental Mark II’s massive size and superbly plush handling rivaled only Cadillac’s premium offerings. The model’s short-lived status as Ford Motor Company’s flagship can largely be attributed to its exceedingly high production costs: despite its astronomical price, the Blue Oval still lost money on each Continental Mark II sold.

The example offered here has benefitted from single-family ownership over the past 60 years. Purchased from the original owner in 1961 by the seller’s father, the car was regularly driven up until 1970, when it was stored away for the following decades. Restoration commenced in 2014 and continued into 2015. Originally finished in Dark Green, Ferrari of Ontario handled the cosmetic refurbishment, respraying the exterior to its current Medium Green Iridescent color and refinishing the interior in period-correct upholstery sourced from England. During this process the doors, hood, and trunk were removed, and all the chrome was sent out for replating. Later, RM Restorations took over the project and attended to the mechanical restoration.

Now in stunning condition, the vehicle was shown at the Cobble Beach Concours d’Elegance on the shores of Lake Huron in Ontario, Canada. This Continental Mark II will be accompanied by a sales brochure, owner’s manuals, parts catalogs, and a technical data book.

The last word in American luxury, Ford Motor Company’s extravagant Continental set a standard for the era and remains one of the most elegant designs ever conceived. A true classic, every serious collector should consider placing a Mark II in their garage.