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1966 Lincoln Continental: The Epitome of American Luxury

The 1966 Lincoln Continental glides into history with an aura of elegance and an embodiment of luxury that few cars can match. Born from the esteemed Lincoln division of the Ford Motor Company, this iconic vehicle emerged as a paragon of American automotive design during a time when size and opulence were synonymous with status. Notably, President John F. Kennedy's limousine was a customized 1961 Lincoln Continental, cementing its place in the annals of history.

Design and Innovation

The 1966 Continental's exterior styling was a harmonious blend of clean lines and subtle curves, presenting an image of understated sophistication. Its long, straight body, accented by a tasteful use of chrome, exuded confidence and grace. Inside, passengers were cocooned in a world of luxury where fine leather and rich wood veneers were the standard. Technology-wise, it boasted advanced features for its era, such as power windows and an optional automatic climate control system. Color options ranged from subdued to vibrant, with hues like "Florentine Gold Iridescent" and "Sapphire Blue" being popular picks. Among the body styles available, the four-door convertible stood out as an icon of design, with its fully retractable roof making it one of the last vehicles to offer such a feature.

Historical Significance

The Continental's influence on automotive design was profound. It helped popularize the concept of personal luxury cars—a niche that would grow significantly in the following decades. Its unique combination of American-style comfort with European-inspired handling characteristics set it apart from its contemporaries and left a lasting legacy on the industry.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the 1966 Continental was powered by a robust 462 cubic inch V8 engine that propelled it to respectable speeds for its size. While not designed as a sports car, it offered commendable acceleration, reaching 0-60 mph in under 10 seconds—a feat for a vehicle weighing over 5,000 pounds. On the road, its ride was smooth and composed; bumps were absorbed with ease thanks to its sophisticated suspension system. The driving experience was one of tranquility, punctuated by the deep burble of its powerful engine.

Ownership Experience

The Continental served various roles from a prestigious daily driver to a coveted show car. Its reliability was typical for its era—sturdy but requiring regular attention to maintain its level of sophistication. Maintenance could be performed by an average owner with some mechanical knowledge or by specialized classic car mechanics.

Fun Facts

This classic has graced many collections and has been associated with numerous celebrities over the years. While not known for breaking speed records, it held its own in terms of sales success and brand prestige. Criticisms often centered around its fuel consumption—a common trait for vehicles in its class.

Collector's Information

Today, the value range for a well-maintained 1966 Lincoln Continental can vary greatly depending on condition and originality. Estimates suggest that tens of thousands were produced during that model year alone. As for appreciation, these vehicles have seen a steady increase in value over time due to their iconic status and relative rarity in pristine condition.

Conclusion

The 1966 Lincoln Continental remains a testament to American luxury and design innovation. Its historical significance is matched by an enduring appeal among collectors and classic car enthusiasts alike. Whether admired at car shows or enjoyed on open roads, this Continental continues to be a symbol of automotive excellence.

1966 Lincoln Continental Front Bumper Arm Grommets-BG 47Front Bumper Arm Grommets. 2" wide X 4-1/2" long, with 1-3/4" long inner slot. Pair

1966 Lincoln Continental Shock Absorber Grommet. 1-1/4" bottom O.D., 1" high-BN 12Shock Absorber Grommet. 1-1/4" bottom O.D., 1" high., with 3/4" I.D. Each

1966 Lincoln Continental Front Stabilizer End Repair Kit-BNK 23Front Stabilizer End Repair Kit. 22-piece set for two stabilizer bars. Contains all rubber bushings, washers, bolts and nuts, enough for one front end. Set

1966 Lincoln Continental Door Side Seal extrusion with proper installation clips-C/LP 40-FDoor Side Seal extrusion with proper installation clips. Clips installed 4" on center. Sold by the foot.

1966 Lincoln Continental Gas Filler Grommet. 2-1/2" I.D., 4-1/8" O.D. Each-GF 24Gas Filler Grommet. 2-1/2" I.D., 4-1/8" O.D. Each

1966 Lincoln Continental Door Side Seal, Without Clips (for seal with clips-LP 40-FDoor Side Seal, Without Clips (for seal with clips, see C/LP 40-F). Sold by the foot

1966 Lincoln Continental Trunk Seal. 18 feet long. Each-TK 51-18Trunk Seal. 18 feet long. Each

1966 Lincoln Continental Rear vertical window seals-VS 3-ARear vertical window seals. Fits '66-'67 Lincoln 4-door convertibles between the two side windows. Attaches to the rear window leading frame. Also fits '66-'67 Lincoln 2-door coupes rear roll-up windows (cut to length). 19 in. long. Made with steel cores. Pair. R&L.

1966 Lincoln Continental Windshield Reveal Molding Clip. Made of steel. Each-WF 228-AWindshield Reveal Molding Clip. Made of steel. Each