LINCOLN
FUN FACTS
The journey of Lincoln Motors, a hallmark of automotive excellence, began in 1917 under the pioneering leadership of Henry Leland. Initially rooted in aircraft engine manufacturing, the company made its mark during World War I by producing the Liberty V12 engines, pivotal for the Allied forces. As the roaring twenties approached, Lincoln transitioned to crafting luxury automobiles, unveiling its first car, the Model L, in September 1920.
The essence of the brand is captured in its namesake; inspired by the legacy of President Abraham Lincoln, the company embodies the spirit of innovation and elegance that the leader represented. From its inception, Lincoln has been intertwined with the thrill of motorsports. In 1921, the Lincoln Road Runner made waves at the Nevada 1000-Mile Road race, marking the beginning of the brand’s racing legacy. The fervor continued into the 1950s as Lincoln dominated the NASCAR scene, and the Continental Mark VII showcased its prowess in the Trans-AM series.
A proud supplier of U.S. State cars, Lincoln has served numerous presidents, with the Model K V12 convertible custom-built for Franklin D. Roosevelt epitomizing luxury; measuring an impressive 21 feet in length and weighing around 4,200 kg, it was a vehicle designed for both comfort and stature. In 1992, Lincoln became part of the Ford family, stepping into a new era as Ford’s luxury division during a time of market challenges. This acquisition heralded a shift towards user-centric features, notably the transition away from manual transmissions in favor of the automatic, reflecting the preferences of its discerning clientele.
Notably, Lincoln has collaborated with renowned fashion designers like Cartier and Givenchy to create special edition cars, merging automotive craftsmanship with high fashion. Among its iconic models, the Town Car stands out as a symbol of opulence and comfort, embracing its limousine-style body from 1983 to 2011. As Lincoln continues to advance, it has garnered a reputation for leading the charge in automotive technology, introducing innovations such as the first-ever 12,000-mile warranty with the Lincoln Continental in 1961 and pioneering features like the ‘Sure-Track’ brake system and electronic instrument panels. With a legacy rich in history and a commitment to excellence, Lincoln remains a true icon in the realm of luxury automobiles, forever linked to the essence of American leadership and innovation.