Image of 1968 Lincoln Mark Iii, sourced from www.hemmings.com , Image Link.

Unveiling the 1968 Lincoln Mark III: A Paragon of American Luxury

The year 1968 heralded the arrival of the Lincoln Mark III, a vehicle that redefined American luxury. Born from the ambitious minds at Lincoln, a division of Ford Motor Company, this full-size luxury coupe was designed to compete head-to-head with the Cadillac Eldorado. It was a bold statement in an era when opulence and size dictated prestige. The Mark III was not just a car; it was a symbol of status and sophistication. A unique fact that car enthusiasts may find fascinating is that the Mark III's introduction coincided with the 50th anniversary of Lincoln, adding to its historical allure.

Design and Innovation: A Testament to American Craftsmanship

The exterior of the 1968 Lincoln Mark III was a blend of classic elegance and modern flair, featuring a long hood, short deck profile, and a prominent grille that paid homage to the revered Lincoln Continentals of the 1940s. The hideaway headlamps and sharp lines exuded a sense of power and grace. Inside, occupants were enveloped in luxury, with options like leather seats and accents of wood grain. The quality of materials used was second to none, ensuring comfort matched only by the vehicle's grandeur. Technological features for its time included automatic climate control and an optional 8-track tape player, which were cutting-edge for vehicles in this era. Color options ranged from subdued to vibrant, with Dark Blue Metallic and Black Velvet among the popular choices that accentuated its commanding presence. The most iconic body style was undoubtedly the two-door hardtop coupe, which became synonymous with the Mark III's identity.

Historical Significance: An Iconic Influence on Luxury Automobiles

The 1968 Lincoln Mark III set new benchmarks for what constituted a luxury automobile. It introduced features such as hidden headlights and a faux spare tire bulge on the trunk lid—a design cue that would become characteristic of luxury coupes in the years to follow. Its release marked a pivotal moment in automotive design, influencing both contemporary and future models with its blend of performance and opulence.

Performance and Handling: The Pinnacle of Power and Poise

Underneath its stately exterior lay a formidable 460 cubic inch V8 engine that propelled the Mark III from 0-60 mph in under 10 seconds—a remarkable feat for such a sizable coupe. With a top speed hovering around 120 mph, it balanced raw power with refined performance. Handling was surprisingly agile for its class, absorbing bumps with ease while maintaining composure on windy roads. Driving the Mark III was an experience unto itself—the rumble of the engine, the smoothness of the ride, and an almost intuitive connection between car and driver.

Ownership Experience: More Than Just a Means of Transportation

While some owners cherished their Mark IIIs as daily drivers or show cars, others reveled in its potential as an occasional indulgence. Maintenance required dedication but was manageable for those familiar with classic car care. Reliability was commendable for its time, though finding parts today can be part of the collector's journey.

Fun Facts: The Mark III Through Time

The Lincoln Mark III has graced many collections worldwide, including those of celebrities like Elvis Presley. While it didn't break speed records, it set sales records for Lincoln upon its release. Despite criticisms about fuel economy—a common issue among vehicles of its size during that era—the Mark III remained a coveted classic.

Collector's Information: A Coveted Classic's Value Today

Today, collectors hold the 1968 Lincoln Mark III in high esteem. With approximately 31,233 units produced during its first year alone, it's moderately rare but still accessible to serious collectors. Values range significantly based on condition but can fetch anywhere from $15,000 for models in good condition to upwards of $30,000 or more for pristine examples. Price trends suggest appreciation over time as enthusiasts seek out these icons of American luxury.

Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of the 1968 Lincoln Mark III

From its inception to its lasting impact on automotive design, the 1968 Lincoln Mark III stands as a testament to American luxury and innovation. It encapsulates an era when cars were not just modes of transport but statements of personal style and prestige. As we look back on this classic marvel, we're reminded that some legends only grow finer with time.

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

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

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