The 1973 Lincoln Continental Mark IV Bugazzi represents the ultimate intersection of Hollywood custom car culture and Detroit luxury. Designed by George Barris’ Hollywood Coach Builders, this vehicle is one of only twelve ever produced during the mid-seventies. This specific car was custom-built for Joe Conforte, the colorful owner of the infamous Mustang Ranch in Nevada. It is believed to be one of only two examples remaining in existence today. Every inch of this 1973 Lincoln Continental Mark IV Bugazzi tells a story of extravagance and unique craftsmanship. It stands as a gilded monument to an era when personal luxury cars were truly personalized.
Barris Design and Art Himsl Custom Paint
The exterior features a breathtaking PPG blend of Gold Pearl clear infused with Ice Pearl for a shimmering effect. Renowned artist Art Himsl applied the initial finish at his California studio, utilizing special blending and shading techniques. Later, the car was refreshed by David Pygeorge and Joe Ballion to maintain its vibrant and period-correct luster. Intricate pinstriping and a hand-painted graphic on the trunk lid provide additional layers of visual complexity to the body. This custom paintwork ensures the car commands attention under any lighting condition. It reflects the bold aesthetic choices that defined the elite automotive social circles of the seventies.
Peanut Butter Leather and Granite Interior
The cabin of this Bugazzi is just as remarkable as its exterior, featuring a decadent Peanut Butter leather interior. Gold Brocade fabric inserts add a touch of texture and vintage elegance to the spacious seating areas. A unique Granite console serves as a centerpiece, providing a material contrast rarely seen in traditional luxury vehicles. All elements have been preserved to maintain the period-correct atmosphere of a high-end 1973 custom build. The interior smells of rich leather and reflects the meticulous care provided by its previous owners. It offers a sensory journey back to a time of unapologetic comfort and distinct style.
Hollywood Provenance and Mechanical Sorting
George Barris is world-famous for his movie cars, but the Bugazzi series remains one of his most exclusive road-going ventures. This car carries the Bugazzi California license plate, further cementing its ties to the West Coast custom scene. Despite its status as a showpiece, the vehicle has been recently mechanically sorted to ensure modern reliability. Technicians replaced the belts, hoses, spark plugs, and wiring to bring the drivetrain up to a dependable standard. These updates allow the next owner to enjoy the car on the road rather than keeping it stationary. It functions with the same smooth confidence it displayed when it first left Hollywood.
Chassis Integrity and Collector Rarity
With only two believed to remain, the rarity of this Mark IV variant cannot be overstated by collectors. It utilizes the substantial Lincoln chassis to provide a floating ride quality that defined the luxury market. The heavy doors close with a solid thud, indicating the structural integrity of the original coach-built conversion. Having served the owner of the Mustang Ranch, the car carries a level of notoriety that few other Lincolns possess. It has survived decades of shifting tastes to emerge as a highly sought-after piece of Americana. This rarity makes it a primary attraction for those seeking a vehicle with a deep historical narrative.
Engine Performance and Technical Specs
The 1973 Lincoln Continental Mark IV Bugazzi is powered by a massive 460 CI V8 engine that delivers effortless torque. It utilizes a C6 automatic transmission to manage gear changes with the smoothness expected of a flagship luxury cruiser. The drivetrain has been refreshed with new belts, hoses, and an updated wiring harness for improved electrical reliability. This powertrain allows the heavy custom body to move with grace while maintaining a steady and quiet idle. Performance front and rear suspension components ensure the ride remains isolated from road imperfections. These specifications provide the brute force necessary to match the car’s bold and extravagant visual presence.
The 460 CI V8 engine produces a deep, low-frequency hum that is characteristic of the great American big-block motors. Because of the recent mechanical sorting, the engine starts reliably and maintains consistent temperatures even in modern traffic. The C6 automatic transmission is legendary for its durability and ability to handle the significant weight of this custom Lincoln. Drivers will notice the power steering is light and effortless, making the large sedan surprisingly easy to navigate. The new spark plugs and wiring ensure the ignition system remains crisp across the entire power band. It is a mechanically sound masterpiece that is ready for both the show field and the highway.
Summary of the Barris Bugazzi
This 1973 Lincoln Continental Mark IV Bugazzi is a fascinating relic of a time when the automotive world embraced total excess. The connection to George Barris and Joe Conforte makes it one of the most interesting customs ever offered. It successfully combines rare artistic paintwork with a cabin finished in premium leather and real granite. Recent mechanical work ensures that this survivor is not just a static display but a functional machine. For the collector who values Hollywood history and extreme rarity, this Bugazzi is an essential acquisition. It remains a definitive statement of mid-seventies luxury and creative automotive vision.
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Source: mecum.com
