The Lincoln Continental is celebrating its 80th birthday in style, with the launch of a limited edition that features centre opening doors.
And, you guessed it, Lincoln is building just 80 of the limousines.
Following the reveal of the all-new Lincoln Aviator at the Los Angeles Auto Show, the 80th Anniversary Continental celebrates the heritage of one of America’s most beloved luxury sedans.
“This Lincoln Continental echoes a design that captured the hearts of car enthusiasts around the world,” Lincoln Motor Company president.Joy Falotico, said.
“It’s something bespoke only Lincoln can offer in a thoroughly modern way.”
Lincoln Continental began as a custom luxury vehicle hand-crafted by chief stylist Eugene T. Gregorie for Edsel Ford in 1939.
Years later, the 1961 Continental introduced the unique centre-opening doors and a chrome-accented upper shoulder line that established a signature look.
“The centre-opening doors became synonymous with the Lincoln Continental, even though they were only featured primarily in the ’60s,” design director, David Woodhouse, said.
“But they struck such a chord that they’re still remembered so fondly today.”
Woodhouse said the element is both dramatic and distinctive.
“It was truly a watershed moment for us in terms of iconic design,” he adds.
Each of the 80 units in this limited production for 2019 will have a special door sill plate featuring its number in the run. A limited number of additional Continental Coach Door Edition sedans will be available as well for the 2020 model year.
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