In the realm of American luxury automobiles, few cars have left an indelible mark quite like the 1979 Lincoln Continental Mark V. As the last of its kind, the Mark V represented an era of opulence and excess in the automotive world. In this article, we will take a nostalgic journey back to 1979 to explore the history, design, and enduring allure of the Lincoln Continental Mark V.
A Brief History of the Lincoln Continental Mark V
The Lincoln Continental Mark V was the fifth generation of the prestigious Continental Mark series, which was first introduced in 1956 as a personal luxury car by Ford's Lincoln division. The Mark V debuted in 1977 and was produced through 1979, marking the end of the Mark series' three-decade run. During its three-year production, the Mark V established itself as a symbol of American luxury, with over 228,000 units sold.
The Mark V was designed during a period of economic uncertainty, triggered by the 1973 oil crisis and subsequent fuel shortages. Despite these challenges, the Mark V managed to maintain its position as a top-selling luxury vehicle in the United States, thanks to its distinctive style, advanced features, and uncompromising performance.
The Distinctive Design of the 1979 Lincoln Continental Mark V
The 1979 Lincoln Continental Mark V is a true testament to the opulence and grandeur of American automotive design during the late 1970s. Its bold and imposing presence is characterized by a long hood, pronounced front fenders, and a sleek, elegant roofline that gracefully slopes towards the rear. The Mark V's design was heavily influenced by the "personal luxury car" concept, which prioritized individual comfort and extravagance over practicality and efficiency.
One of the most recognizable features of the 1979 Mark V is its distinctive "Continental" spare tire hump, which is integrated into the trunk lid. This design element pays homage to the original 1939 Lincoln Continental, which was designed by Edsel Ford and Eugene T. "Bob" Gregorie. Additionally, the Mark V's hidden headlights, prominent grille, and unique rear taillights contribute to its unmistakable appearance.
The Mark V's extravagant exterior is matched by an equally luxurious interior, which is meticulously crafted to provide the ultimate in comfort and convenience. The car's spacious cabin is adorned with premium materials, including plush upholstery, soft carpeting, and genuine wood trim. The driver and passengers are pampered with an array of amenities, such as power windows, power seats, and automatic climate control.
Performance and Power Under the Hood
Despite its size and weight, the 1979 Lincoln Continental Mark V is no slouch when it comes to performance. Under the hood, the car is powered by a choice of two V8 engines: a 6.6-liter (400 cubic inches) or a 7.5-liter (460 cubic inches) unit. Both engines are mated to Ford's C6 three-speed automatic transmission, which provides smooth and responsive gear changes.
The 1979 Mark V's suspension is designed to deliver a comfortable, cloud-like ride, thanks to its independent front suspension and four-link rear suspension with coil springs. Additionally, the car is equipped with power-assisted steering and power-assisted disc brakes on all four wheels, ensuring a confident and composed driving experience.
The Legacy of the 1979 Lincoln Continental Mark V
The 1979 Lincoln Continental Mark V marked the end of an era for American luxury automobiles. The Mark series was discontinued after the 1979 model year, making way for the smaller and more fuel-efficient Lincoln Continental Mark VI. However, the Mark V remains a beloved classic among car enthusiasts and collectors, who appreciate its iconic design, lavish features, and impressive performance.
Today, the 1979 Lincoln Continental Mark V stands as a symbol of American opulence and automotive excess. Its enduring appeal is a testament to the car's unique combination of style, luxury, and performance, which has not been replicated since. As such, the Mark V remains a sought-after collectible for vintage car enthusiasts and fans of classic American automobiles.
Special Editions and Designer Series
One of the factors that contributed to the enduring appeal of the 1979 Lincoln Continental Mark V was its range of special editions and designer series models. These limited-production variants featured unique styling elements and upgraded features, which further elevated the car's status as a luxury icon.
Among the most notable special editions were the Collector's Series and the Diamond Jubilee Edition. The Collector's Series was introduced to commemorate the end of the Mark V production and the Continental nameplate. It featured exclusive paint colors, a padded vinyl roof, special badging, and a unique interior with premium leather upholstery. Additionally, the Collector's Series came with a host of standard features, such as a power moonroof, four-wheel disc brakes, and a CB radio.
The Diamond Jubilee Edition was released in 1978 to celebrate Ford Motor Company's 75th anniversary. This ultra-luxurious variant of the Mark V featured an exclusive color scheme, with Diamond Blue or Diamond Jubilee Gold paint and a matching padded vinyl roof. The interior was similarly opulent, with color-matched leather upholstery, genuine wood trim, and a host of additional amenities. Only 5,159 Diamond Jubilee Editions were produced, making them highly sought-after by collectors today.
In addition to the special editions, the 1979 Lincoln Continental Mark V also offered a designer series, which showcased the work of famous fashion designers. These models included the Bill Blass Edition, the Cartier Edition, the Givenchy Edition, and the Pucci Edition. Each designer edition had its own unique color scheme, interior materials, and badging, reflecting the designer's signature style.
The Impact on Popular Culture
The 1979 Lincoln Continental Mark V's distinctive design and luxurious features made it a popular choice among celebrities and influential figures during its time. The car's imposing presence and unmistakable style were often associated with success and affluence, making it a favorite among movie stars, musicians, and other high-profile individuals.
The Mark V's popularity also extended to the world of film and television. The car has been featured in numerous movies and TV shows, often serving as a symbol of wealth, power, or status. Some notable appearances include the 1980 film "The Blues Brothers," the 1983 movie "Scarface," and the popular 1980s TV series "Dallas."
The 1979 Lincoln Continental Mark V in the Classic Car Market
Today, the 1979 Lincoln Continental Mark V is a highly desirable classic car, with well-preserved examples commanding premium prices in the collector's market. The car's unique combination of design, luxury, and performance has endeared it to automotive enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Values for the 1979 Mark V can vary widely, depending on factors such as condition, mileage, and rarity. Special edition models and designer series variants tend to command higher prices due to their limited production numbers and unique features. Restored and well-maintained examples can fetch upwards of $20,000 to $30,000, while more common variants in average condition can still sell for between $10,000 and $15,000.
In conclusion, the 1979 Lincoln Continental Mark V is a shining example of American automotive design and engineering during the late 1970s. Despite facing economic challenges and shifting consumer preferences, the Mark V managed to carve out a lasting legacy as a benchmark for luxury, style, and performance. For those seeking a piece of American automotive history, the 1979 Lincoln Continental Mark V is a timeless classic that continues to captivate and impress.