1966 Lincoln Continental Convertible review from North America

Due to its age and my goal, I purchased this car as a restoration project. At that time the car had 70,000 miles on it, but it sat for 5 years and it needed attention due to age and neglect. I replaced the steering pump, steering box & linkage, timing chain, water-pump, new carb, fuel pump, rad, heater core, all hoses, master cylinder, brake hoses steel lines & other typical brake parts such as the wheel cylinders, rebuilt the transmission, drive shaft U joints, complete suspension rebuilt from front to rear, new stainless steel exhaust from the motor back, misc gaskets including the exhaust manifolds. I replaced all top relays and cleaned/rebuilt all

components. As for the body it had a couple of minor spots sectioned with new steel. I replaced top and did the body body over in the original color of artic white with a 2 stage urethane paint. I also re-chromed the bumpers and door handles. The only thing that I didn't redo is the massive 462 motor.

The 60's Lincolns are great cars and I started collecting them when I was in high school in the early 90's. Back then there were plenty of parts cars at cheap prices in the $100-$400 range. I have had 11 total some 62's,66's,67's, a 68 & 72. 66 is my personal favorite.

My restored car is a convertible and is a great runner. The motor is the only area I have not had to part with. It runs whisper quiet and to this day still shows 175 to 180 psi on all cylinders. With all new external components this motor has lots of power and life left. Where can you find a 40 year car that runs like this and doesn't even smoke. Other than the motor, the leather interior looks new too. I was lucky to find a clean parts car with a mint black interior to match.

To be honest I have spent a good deal of money and countless hours on this and other Continentals. My first driving impression was the car had power, but I was not impressed. I decided to rebuild the suspension and put good tires on it and what a difference. Today the car rides tight and smooth. The steering is crankshaft powered with under-steer. I have to say these cars are over engineered and seriously built. You will bust knuckles and get hand strains when servicing the old girl. They require attention from time to time not to mention they will cost double for parts compared to other domestic cars of the time or the later 1970's models. These are a cars that you have to have time for unlike a mustang that is more practical. For example a 20 dollar 20 minute job can turn into a three hour $450.00 hassle from time to time. Also many techs seem to run when the continental is around so get a shop manual. If you know this in the beginning it will be easier down the road. These cars last and are at there best when they are properly maintained. They can be lots of fun and when was the last time you saw one.