When I bought the car, the brakes were rusted from lack of use (the car had been in storage the last nine years) and needed a full overhaul, including master cylinder.
The transmission oil pan seal leaked and was replaced.
The vehicle also needed fresh shocks.
Other than these repairs and a full fluid flush, the car was in excellent condition mechanically.
I've wanted a Mark IV ever since I was a child and saw these magnificent vehicles cruising the streets of New York.
A few months ago, I located a '72 in our area and decided to take the plunge and purchase it. The car was in outstanding cosmetic condition, with a professional repaint and new vinyl top, and the mileage was very low for the model year.
This car just glides silently along the highway at high speeds and is a joy to drive. Yes, the steering has too much play and the brakes are not up to modern standards, but there is simply no vehicle today that can give the experience of driving a Mark IV.
What impresses me most about the vehicle is the fit-and-finish; the panels gaps are tight and uniform, the interior is made of very high-quality materials, and the whole car exudes quality and care of assembly.
I've been a long-time Cadillac fan and own a '72 Eldorado Convertible, but I have to admit that the Mark IV's fit-and-finish is superior to that of the Cadi. This fact and the styling is probably why the Mark IV and V consistently outsold Cadillac's "personal car" throughout most of the '70's.
I have to agree with you. I own several marks (III, IV's and V's) as well as a 72. I do enjoy driving my 72, but my 71 has more power and is a great deal more agile.
My 79 Collectors Series mark is more opulent, but my 72 just has the boldest front end with that large chrome grille.
My friends all make fun of me, as I work as a lead technician for a korean automaker, and the newest vehicle I own is 30 years old!!!
On a road full of economical, egg-shaped, imaginative and most often disappointing examples of modern automotive engineering, the Marks of 1968-1979 are true starships. Even the most opulent BMW or the most expensive Mercedes cannot even hint at the curb appeal of these truly beautiful works of automotive art.
Hold on to your example, they will explode in value soon. The classic car world is just now starting to re-evaluate cars from the 70's and when the stumble blindly upon the Mark's III, IV, and V, they will be the most sought after of all vehicles from that era. Trust me. I own 7 of them. ;)
M.O.C
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