After the relatively unsuccessful debut of its all-new 1958 model, Lincoln designers went back to the drawing boards to create a new car that would debut in 1961. Focusing on quantity, the line would be pared down to a single model, the Continental, which would be offered only as a four-door sedan and as a four-door convertible, with the latter being the last of its kind to be built by a Detroit automaker, when the model was discontinued in 1969.

The new Continental, created under the leadership of Elwood Engel, was smaller than earlier models. The decision to “downsize” the Continental resulted in one of its most distinctive features: suicide-style rear doors, as there was simply not enough room between the wheel wells for four doors and a generous rear passenger seat without hinging the back doors at the rear.

In order to accommodate an ultra-low ride height, the Continental boasted an innovative driveshaft that was lowered as far as possible to reduce the interior tunnel. Other advanced features included extensive factory rustproofing, curved window glass, and a standard one-year 1,000-mile factory warranty, which was the first of its kind offered on an American car. Each Continental underwent exhaustive road-testing prior to its delivery to its original owner. It is no wonder that the model was such a lasting success, with styling that would be used through 1969, and it has become one of Lincoln’s design landmarks.

The striking Convertible Sedan offered here is one of the longest-term residents of the Kughn Collection, having been acquired by Mr. Kughn in 1977. For many years, it was the automobile that Mr. and Mrs. Kughn would take on road trips, explaining the presence of driving lights and the useful luggage rack on the rear deck. More recently, it has been taken to shows, including the Lincoln and Continental Owners Club’s Lincoln Experience at Gilmore in 2006, where it was awarded a Primary Second Place.

This Continental is still an extremely comfortable automobile that wears its original black leather interior. It is also accompanied by an original owner’s manual, and it has all the expected standard luxuries, such as a Turbo-Drive automatic transmission, power steering, power brakes, a dual exhaust, power windows, power door locks, an AM/FM radio, and even seat belts. The air conditioning is an original factory option that will certainly be appreciated on sunny days.

This Lincoln is a reliable, durable, and comfortable way to enjoy top-down family fun, and it will surely be enjoyed by its new owner as much as it was by Mr. and Mrs. Kughn for the last 37 years.