When Lincoln introduced the Continental Mark VII for 1984, it largely redefined the American luxury car segment. Gone were the split bench seats and column shifters of yore, replaced by sporty and supportive bucket seats and a center console with a floor shift. The body featured doors with frames cut into the roof, aiding aerodynamics and composite, flush-mounted headlights, a first on an American vehicle since 1939. It would be the first Continental Mark since 1960 to feature exposed headlights, the Mark III through Mark VI each using hidden headlights. And, in 1985, it would be the first American car to feature four-channel anti-lock brakes. Initially available in base trim, Bill Blass and Versace editions, the Luxury Sports Coupe (LSC) was introduced in 1985, blending a European flare with the undertone of a traditional American muscle car. Well-received, replacing Mark VII was a tall order, but for the 1993 model year, Lincoln introduced the Mark VIII, a luxury coupe with an extensively aerodynamic body and a lengthy roster of modern technology and engineering. Powered by a modular 4.6L/280 HP V-8 engine with a 4-speed automatic transmission, the LSC would join the lineup for 1995 and bring an additional 10 HP with a custom-tuned exhaust system and a recalibrated suspension. For all intents and purposes, the Mark VIII once again redefined the American luxury car segment, but with stiffer competition all around, sales were slower and the 1998 model year would be the last for the Lincoln Mark with no replacement. Originally shipped to Springfield Lincoln-Mercury, this Mark VIII LSC shows just over 52,000 miles and is finished in Pearl White Tri-Coat Metallic with a monochromatic grille and assorted trim, and rolls on the original 16-inch styled aluminum wheels with Goodyear Assurant tires. The Prairie Tan leather interior features a lengthy list of amenities including air conditioning, power moonroof, a power tilt steering column, power heated seats with driver’s side memory, air conditioning, an AM/FM stereo system with a trunk-mounted CD changer, power windows, power locks, power dual sideview mirrors, cruise control, a rear defogger, power steering and power brakes. Complete with the original window sticker, original owner’s manual, original sales literature and brochure, the car also features an extra key and locking lug nut key. This car is still on the MSO. Should the new owner wish to drive the car on public roads, they must title the car in their name and surrender the MSO.
