Image of 1979 Lincoln Continental, sourced from www.eddyschevroletcadillac.com , Image Link.

1979 Lincoln Continental: A Testament to American Luxury

The 1979 Lincoln Continental effortlessly stands as a symbol of American automotive opulence, marking the end of an era for full-size luxury sedans. Crafted by the Ford Motor Company's Lincoln division, this vehicle not only represented the pinnacle of comfort and style but also served as a swan song for the extravagant land yachts of the 1970s. With its grand dimensions and plush interiors, the Continental was a rolling statement of status and sophistication. An intriguing piece of trivia that captures the essence of this car is that it was one of the last to be offered with an optional 8-track player, bridging the gap between classic and modern amenities.

Design and Innovation

The exterior of the 1979 Lincoln Continental was a sight to behold, with its long hood, upright grille, and opera windows creating an unmistakable silhouette. The sheer size of the vehicle was complemented by clean lines and a formal roofline, exuding a sense of grandeur. Inside, occupants were enveloped in a world of luxury, with premium materials like leather and wood grain adorning every surface. Technological features such as Cartier-branded clocks and power-operated components were cutting-edge for the time. Color options ranged from understated classics to bold hues, with Dark Blue and Dove Gray being among the popular choices. The most iconic body style was arguably the Town Car, which offered additional legroom and exclusive trim options.

Historical Significance

The 1979 Lincoln Continental left an indelible mark on automotive design by being one of the last vehicles to embrace traditional American luxury before downsizing became prevalent in the industry. Its sheer size and commitment to comfort set it apart from its contemporaries and influenced future generations of luxury sedans. The Continental's lasting influence can be seen in modern cars that prioritize spacious interiors and advanced amenities.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its stately exterior, the 1979 Continental boasted a 6.6-liter V8 engine that delivered smooth acceleration rather than sporty performance, with a top speed that reflected its dignified character more than outright speed. The ride quality was akin to gliding on air, with suspension tuned for comfort over sharp handling. Driving this car was about enjoying the journey in serene quietness, with engine noise kept to a minimum and bumps absorbed with ease.

Ownership Experience

As expected from a luxury liner like the Continental, it found its niche as a daily driver for those who valued comfort above all else or as a show car that exemplified classic American elegance. Maintenance could be straightforward due to its conventional engineering, but some parts may now be rare or require specialist knowledge to replace or repair. Despite this, owning a '79 Continental is often considered more than just having a car; it's about preserving a piece of history.

Fun Facts

The 1979 Lincoln Continental has had its share of limelight with celebrity ownerships and appearances in films that needed to evoke a sense of period-specific affluence. While not known for breaking speed records, it certainly set benchmarks for size and luxury features in passenger cars. Criticisms often centered around its fuel economy—or lack thereof—in an era when fuel crises were beginning to influence automotive design.

Collector's Information

In terms of collectability, pristine examples of the 1979 Lincoln Continental can fetch significant sums from enthusiasts who cherish its unique place in automotive history. While production numbers were relatively high for such a luxurious vehicle (estimates suggest tens of thousands were produced), finding one in excellent condition can be challenging. Values have generally appreciated over time as nostalgia for this era's opulence grows among collectors. A well-maintained model could command anywhere from mid-five figures up to six figures depending on provenance and condition.

Conclusion

The 1979 Lincoln Continental represents more than just an automobile; it is an artifact from an age where luxury reigned supreme on American roads. Its grandiose design, plush interior comforts, and smooth performance encapsulate a period when cars were not just modes of transportation but expressions of personal success and style. As we look back on this era with fondness, the Continental remains an enduring icon that continues to captivate classic car enthusiasts around the world.

1979 Lincoln Continental Front Stabilizer End Repair Kit-BNK 21Front 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

1979 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

1979 Lincoln Continental Hood Bumper. Each-HF 2Hood Bumper. Each

1979 Lincoln Continental Windshield Reveal Molding Clip. Made of steel. Each-WF 228-AWindshield Reveal Molding Clip. Made of steel. Each