The 1957 Lincoln Premiere was a standout in the American luxury car market, delivering a combination of stylish design, powerful performance, and comfort that set it apart from the competition. Introduced in 1956, the Lincoln Premiere was positioned above the Lincoln Capri, yet was significantly distinct from the more expensive Ford Continental Mark II. By 1957, Lincoln made extensive updates to the Premiere, ensuring it could hold its own against fresh competition from Cadillac and Imperial.
Refined Styling for 1957
For 1957, Lincoln designer Bill Schmidt took the Premiere’s design to new s. The rear received the most significant changes, featuring higher tailfins, flared quarter panels, and a restyled bumper and rear panel applique. These bold updates gave the Premiere a more dynamic and refined look, while the front end showcased a new grille and a revised bumper. The addition of the Quadra-Lite, a four-headlight arrangement, gave the Premiere a distinctive appearance that was both modern and luxurious.
Lincoln’s exclusive color choices were another highlight. For 1957, customers could choose from 76 two-tone color options or 18 single-color selections, allowing for a highly personalized and unique vehicle. The Premiere’s sleek and elegant lines, combined with its exceptional color variety, made it a standout on the road.
Performance and Power Under the Hood
The 1957 Lincoln Premiere’s performance was equally impressive. The 368 cubic-inch Lincoln Y-Block V8 engine received a number of improvements, including a higher compression ratio, a new Carter four-barrel carburetor, and a centrifugal vacuum-advance distributor. These changes resulted in an increase in horsepower to 300, while torque reached 415 lb-ft (563 Nm). The vehicle’s smooth Turbo-Drive automatic transmission, now water-cooled instead of air-cooled, was paired with a smaller torque converter to enhance performance and efficiency.
The independent front suspension with a stabilizer bar ensured a smooth ride, while the newly relocated driving light added a touch of modern flair. The Premiere was designed for both comfort and power, making it a great choice for leisurely drives around the city or cruising the highways.
Luxury and Comfort
Inside, the 1957 Lincoln Premiere was a beacon of luxury. Standard features included power vent windows, electric door locks, and four-way power seats, with a six-way power seat option available for even more convenience. The combination of plush upholstery, a spacious cabin, and advanced power features made the Premiere a comfortable and refined driving experience. Whether navigating city streets or embarking on a cross-country trip, the 1957 Lincoln Premiere provided unparalleled comfort.
A Timeless Classic
The 1957 Lincoln Premiere remains a symbol of 1950s American luxury and automotive excellence. With its bold styling, advanced engineering, and luxury features, it defined the era’s high-end vehicles. This iconic car not only captured the attention of automotive enthusiasts when it first debuted but continues to be cherished by collectors today.
Specifications:
- Engine: 368 cu in Lincoln Y-Block V-8, Carter 4-barrel
- Transmission: 3-speed Turbo-Drive automatic
- Power: 300 hp
- Torque: 415 lb-ft (563 Nm)
- Length: 224.6 inches
- Width: 80.3 inches
- Height: 60.0 inches
- Wheelbase: 126.0 inches
- 0-60 mph: 8.6 sec
- Quarter-mile: 16.9 sec
- Fuel Economy: 8.6 mpg
- Weight: 4630 lbs
Source: Ford Heritage Vault
New Photos courtesy of Don Laughlin’s Classic Car Museum, taken by George Wakim.
This article was crafted with assistance from Chatgpt
