Image of 1968 Lincoln Continental, Note: These illustrations use artistic license and may differ from actual historical models.

Unveiling the 1968 Lincoln Continental: A Paragon of American Luxury

The 1968 Lincoln Continental emerges not merely as a car but as a statement of American luxury and engineering prowess. Born from the ambitious minds at the Lincoln division of Ford Motor Company, this vehicle encapsulates an era where size and comfort were paramount. In the midst of the tumultuous 1960s, the Continental stood as a beacon of stability and status. One might be surprised to learn that this model was among the last to offer the iconic suicide doors—a design choice that has since become synonymous with the Continental's legacy.

Design and Innovation: A Blend of Elegance and Sophistication

The exterior of the '68 Continental is a testament to classic American design, with its long, clean lines and imposing grille commanding attention on any road. The vehicle's silhouette is a blend of refinement and muscularity, a true representation of luxury without compromise. Inside, occupants are greeted with an opulent cabin, featuring plush leather seats and rich wood accents that exude quality craftsmanship. Technologically, it boasted advancements like an optional automatic headlight dimmer—a novelty at the time. Color options ranged from understated to bold, with hues like Black Velvet and Spanish Moss Metallic being popular choices. The most iconic body style remains the four-door sedan with its rear-hinged "suicide" doors, which not only added to its elegance but also made for a grand entrance or exit.

Historical Significance: Shaping the Luxury Automotive Landscape

The 1968 Lincoln Continental didn't just ride on roads; it paved them for future generations of luxury vehicles. It set itself apart with its unique combination of style, spaciousness, and advanced features. The Continental's influence can be seen in how luxury cars balance power with creature comforts, ensuring that passengers travel in utmost sophistication.

Performance and Handling: A Gentle Giant on the Road

Underneath its hood lay a potent 460 cubic inch V8 engine capable of delivering smooth yet authoritative performance. While top speeds were not touted like today's supercars, it was no slouch either, with enough power to make highway cruising effortless. The ride quality was akin to gliding on air—thanks in part to its sophisticated suspension system—making even the most uneven roads feel like polished marble. Driving this behemoth was an experience in itself; from the deep rumble of its engine to the way it floated over imperfections in the tarmac, it was driving opulence redefined.

Ownership Experience: More Than Just a Car

Owners of the '68 Continental used their vehicles for various purposes—from daily commuting in unrivaled style to showcasing their prized possession at car shows. Maintenance is typical for a classic car of this era; while reliability is solid, finding parts can be challenging but rewarding for those dedicated to preserving this piece of automotive history.

Fun Facts: The Continental's Place in History and Culture

Did you know that this model year was part of a limited production run before significant design changes were introduced in 1969? This fact adds to its collectibility. Moreover, several high-profile celebrities owned Continentals, further cementing their status symbol reputation. While some critics may have pointed out its thirst for fuel or sheer size as drawbacks, these aspects are often overshadowed by its grandeur and charm.

Collector's Information: An Investment in Automotive Royalty

Today, collectors cherish the 1968 Lincoln Continental for its historical significance and unique design elements. With production numbers estimated in the tens of thousands for this year, they are relatively rare but still attainable for enthusiasts. Values vary widely based on condition and provenance but expect well-maintained examples to fetch anywhere from $15,000 to upwards of $50,000 or more in today's market—a figure that seems to appreciate as nostalgia for this era grows.

Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of the 1968 Lincoln Continental

In conclusion, the 1968 Lincoln Continental is more than just a classic car—it's an enduring symbol of American luxury and innovation during a period marked by both progress and upheaval. Its combination of bold design, advanced features for its time, and sheer road presence ensure that it remains a sought-after piece for collectors and enthusiasts alike. As we look back on this icon of automotive history, we're reminded that some cars don't just transport us—they inspire us.

1968 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

1968 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

1968 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

1968 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

1968 Lincoln Continental Brake Master Cylinder Cover Seal. Replaces OEM #C7AZ2167-A-RP 2-BBrake Master Cylinder Cover Seal. Replaces OEM #C7AZ2167-A. Each

1968 Lincoln Continental Brake Master Cylinder Cover Seal. Replaces OEM #5470861-RP 2-CBrake Master Cylinder Cover Seal. Replaces OEM #5470861. 5-9/16" long, 2-5/8" wide. Each

1968 Lincoln Continental Trunk Seal. 18 feet long. Each-TK 51-18Trunk Seal. 18 feet long. Each

1968 Lincoln Continental Windshield Reveal Molding Clip. Made of steel. Each-WF 228-AWindshield Reveal Molding Clip. Made of steel. Each