Lincoln Continental II (Mark II) gallery (1955–1957)

Handcrafted to ultra-luxury standards, the Continental Mark II delivered timeless understated styling and supreme engineering for the American elite.

All photos 121 I 0 1939–1948 II (Mark II) 0 1955–1957 III (Mark III / IV / V) 0 1958–1960 IV 0 1961–1969 V 0 1970–1979 VI (Panther) 0 1980–1981 VII (Fox) 0 1982–1987 VIII (FN9 / D186) 0 1988–1994 IX (FN74) 0 1995–2002 X (D544) 28 2016–2020

Created by Ford's standalone Continental Division, the Continental Mark II was designed to be the ultimate American ultra-luxury car, competing directly with Rolls-Royce. It rode on a dedicated ladder frame featuring unique dropped side rails that allowed for an exceptionally low ride height while maintaining spacious interior dimensions. Unlike contemporary American vehicles dominated by tailfins and excessive brightwork, the Mark II pioneered a clean, continental styling language with subtle lines and an integrated rear decklid spare tire contour. Motivation came from a 368-cubic-inch (6.0-liter) Lincoln Y-block V8 generating 285 to 300 horsepower, mated to a three-speed Turbo-Drive automatic transmission. Assembly involved rigorous hand craftsmanship, meticulous multi-coat lacquer painting, and standard Bridge of Weir leather upholstery. Virtually fully equipped from the factory, its only optional extra was air conditioning. Targeted exclusively at the North American elite, the Mark II remains one of the finest engineering and styling achievements in Ford Motor Company history.