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An Icon of American Automotive Grandeur: This 1956 Continental Mark II stands as a significant piece of American automotive history, representing one of approximately 2,550 coupes produced in its inaugural year. Reportedly displayed in a museum setting, this Mark II exudes an aura of preserved elegance. Finished in a sophisticated light blue over a harmonious two-tone blue interior, it embodies the understated luxury that defined the Continental marque. Powering this classic is a smooth and capable 368 cubic inch V8 engine paired with a seamless three-speed automatic transmission. Notable features include a limited-slip differential for enhanced traction, classic 15-inch steel wheels, effortless power steering, a distinctive egg-crate grille, a driver-side mirror, a retractable antenna, an original AM radio, both front and rear air conditioning for passenger comfort, and a convenient power-adjustable front bench seat. Acquired by its current owner in 2014, this Continental Mark II is now offered by the seller on their behalf, accompanied by a spare tire tool kit and an Idaho title held in the owner’s trust. It’s worth noting that the Idaho title carries a “Duplicate Title” notation.
The Dawn of Continental Luxury: The Continental Mark II marked the revival of the Continental as a standalone luxury division of Ford, making its grand debut at the Paris Motor Show in October 1955. Conceived by Ford’s Special Product Operations team, which included visionary designers like William Clay Ford and Gordon Buehrig, the Mark II was positioned as the brand’s flagship model, commanding a substantial base price of around $10,000. Production of these exclusive coupes was limited, with only 2,994 examples crafted between 1955 and 1957, further solidifying its status as a coveted classic.
Elegant and Distinctive Styling: The Mark II is instantly recognizable by its refined design, highlighted by a distinguished hood ornament, a sweeping wrap-around windshield, a practical driver-side mirror, and a sleek retractable antenna. The signature egg-crate grille and gleaming chrome bumpers and trim underscore its luxurious character. A unique design element is the driver-side taillight, which ingeniously swings away to reveal the fuel filler. The integrated spare tire hump in the decklid adds to its distinctive rear profile. An electric windshield wiper motor has been installed for modern convenience. The seller notes a crack in the driver’s door window.
Smooth Ride and Confident Handling: The car rides on classic 15-inch steel wheels adorned with elegant turbine-style covers, wrapped in 235/75 American Classic tires. Built upon a robust Y-shaped chassis with a generous 126-inch wheelbase, the Mark II was engineered for a smooth and comfortable ride. It utilized innovative temperature-sensitive front shock absorbers, along with other suspension components thoughtfully adapted from the standard Lincoln lineup. From the factory, this luxury coupe was equipped with power-assisted steering, ensuring effortless maneuverability, while power-assisted drum brakes provided reliable stopping power for its era.
Luxurious and Well-Appointed Interior: The interior is trimmed in a sophisticated combination of Light Blue leather and Medium Blue leather, creating a serene and elegant ambiance. Passengers in both the front and rear can enjoy the comfort of air conditioning with ceiling-mounted ventilation. An original AM radio provides period-correct entertainment. The power-adjustable front bench seat allows for personalized comfort. Adding to the luxurious feel are aircraft-style auxiliary controls and tasteful anodized dash trim. Both front and rear windows are power-operated. The seller notes wear on the door jambs, and additional imperfections are detailed in the photo gallery. The dashpad has been replaced.
Classic Instrumentation: The three-spoke steering wheel, featuring a prominent chrome horn ring, frames a classic instrument cluster. This includes a 140-mph speedometer, a 5,000-rpm tachometer, a convenient combination gauge, and an elegant electric clock. The five-digit odometer currently shows 89,000 miles, with less than 1,000 of those added under the current ownership, suggesting limited use in recent years.
Smooth and Capable Powertrain: Power and Performance: Under the hood resides a smooth and capable 368 cubic inch Y-block V8 engine. When it left the factory, this engine was rated at 285 horsepower and a substantial 402 lb-ft of torque, providing ample power for effortless cruising and a refined driving experience befitting a luxury automobile of its stature.
Effortless Power Delivery: The engine’s power is seamlessly transmitted to the rear wheels through a smooth-shifting three-speed Turbo-Drive automatic transmission. The inclusion of a limited-slip differential enhances traction, providing added stability and control.
Summary:
- One of approximately 2,550 first-year coupes.
- Believed to have been displayed in a museum.
- Powered by a 368ci V8 engine.
- Three-speed Turbo-Drive automatic transmission.
- Two-tone blue leather interior.
- Front and rear air conditioning.
- Power-adjustable front bench seat.
- Power steering and power drum brakes.
- Includes spare tire tool kit.
- Idaho title with a “Duplicate Title” notation.
**Disclaimer: Information provided is for general informational purposes only and is based on available details. Potential buyers are advised to conduct their own thorough inspection and verification of any vehicle.
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