26k Original Miles: 1979 Lincoln Continental Mark V

Some classics are mild and restrained, while others are brash and bold. The 1979 Lincoln Continental Mark V fits into the second category, even when painted in a subtle shade. This Lincoln presents superbly as an original survivor, which is unsurprising considering it has a genuine 26,000 miles on its odometer. If you long for a stereotypical 1970s land yacht that stands out for the right reasons, this Mark V is worth a close look.

Cars like this 1979 Continental Mark V are considered by many to be the last of the “big” Lincolns. The push was on for improved fuel efficiency, leading the company to downsize this car’s successor. However, it is worth noting that while the Mark V shared much of its underpinnings with its predecessor, Lincoln managed to prune an impressive 400 lbs from its curb weight to improve the fuel consumption figures. It was still a big and heavy car, but it also demonstrated that Lincoln was willing to evolve with the times. The first owner ordered this classic in subtle Dove Gray with a matching viny Landau-style top. Interestingly, the vinyl was an extra-cost option, but it is rare to see a Mark V without it. The presentation is all you might expect from a low-mile vehicle that has spent its days in a dry climate. The paint shines beautifully, the panels are as straight as an arrow, and the vinyl is excellent. There is no evidence or mention of rust, and the lack of visible surface corrosion in areas like the engine bay suggests that the news should be positive with the floors and frame. The trim and glass are immaculate, and the wheels feature the optional wire covers.

The Lincoln’s interior is as impressive as its exterior, although it is interesting that the first thing that caught my eye was the crack in the top of the wheel. That is about the only thing that warrants criticism, with the overall condition seeming to support the mileage claim. It is a sea of Burgundy cloth and vinyl that shows no evidence of wear. The carpet has some fading, but the lack of physical damage means that replacement isn’t justified unless the buyer seeks perfection. It doesn’t merely look good, because it features all the trimmings you would rightly expect in a luxury car. These include climate-controlled air conditioning, power windows, power locks, a six-way power driver’s seat, a power antenna, cruise control, a Twilight Sentinel, lashings of woodgrain, and remote exterior mirrors. The factory stereo has made way for a modern CD player, which appears to be the only aftermarket addition.

The 1979 model year marked the end of the line for the Mark V, and Lincoln reserved the most profound changes for under its hood. In a “one size fits all” approach, all buyers received a 400ci V8, a three-speed C6 automatic transmission, and power-assisted steering and brakes. The impact of emission regulations is graphically demonstrated by the power and torque figures of 159hp and 315 ft/lbs, which are extremely modest for such a large motor. Factor in the curb weight of 4,786 lbs, and it is unsurprising that the Mark V is more at home cruising on the open road than taking on all challengers at a “Traffic Light Grand Prix.” The seller is this car’s second owner, meaning they might hold evidence verifying the odometer reading of 26,000 miles as genuine. The brakes and tires are fairly new, contributing to the fact that this Lincoln is a turnkey proposition that runs and drives perfectly.

With manufacturers now heavily focused on fuel-efficient and zero-emission vehicles, we will probably never see cars like this 1979 Lincoln Continental Mark V gracing showrooms again. This is a big and bold car that will drink fuel at a rate that most buyers would consider unacceptable from a daily driver. However, rolling it out of the garage for the occasional relaxed weekend outing would be a special experience. The seller has listed the Lincoln here on Craigslist in Ukiah, California. Their price of $13,500 looks extremely competitive in the current market, especially considering this classic’s overall condition and odometer reading. If you long to live life at a more sedate pace, doing so behind the wheel of this Mark V would be a great place to start.