For close to a century, the name Lincoln has been synonymous with luxury, comfort and design. Take a walk with Lincoln through its celebrated past, beginning with the inspiration of a name, the introduction of a classic favorite, the war years and on through to the new millennium. Click on each decade for a brief history and photo exhibit of this truly American classic.
THE ROARING 20s
The 1920s marked the era in which Lincoln would distinguish itself as the premier American luxury automobile. One of the most famous custom-built cars that came out of Edsel Ford's leadership was the 1922 Lincoln Town Car, which was built for Henry Ford himself. Town Car derived its name from its body styling, which featured an open chauffeur's compartment and enclosed passenger compartment. This configuration elevated the vehicle from mere transportation to a bona fide status symbol. In 1924, Lincoln was on its way to becoming the car of choice for the rich and famous, such as Thomas Edison, W.C. Fields and Herbert Hoover.
STREAMLINE SUCCESS - 1930s
By the 1930s, Lincoln had become well known for its luxury and prestige, but it was not until the Zephyr came out that Lincoln truly became financially successful. Zephyr followed the "streamlined" look of the day, and was one of the first to consider aerodynamics in design. Around 1938 Edsel Ford decided to bring a new vehicle to market - the Continental. Edsel drove the first prototype himself, and generated a tremendous desire for the vehicle. The Continental created a dynamic new image for Lincoln thanks to its clean flowing lines. Frank Lloyd Wright called the Continental " the most beautiful car ever made. "
THE WAR YEARS - 1940s
With the onset of World War II, all Lincoln vehicle production stopped to focus on the war effort. True to its heritage, Lincoln facilities helped Ford in the production of tank engines, bodies for amphibious vehicles and over 140,000 jeep bodies. Like most American cars in the years following the war, vehicle designs were just restyled versions of pre-war cars.
THE FABULOUS 50s
The 1950s brought many dramatic changes to Lincoln. At the time, there were new advancements in all vehicles. Power steering, power brakes, power windows, wraparound windshields, tubeless tires and automatic seats started with the Lincoln Premier. The 1950s also prompted Lincoln's chief stylist to start thinking of ideas for the future. In turn, the Continental received a complete overhaul. The Continental Mark II became the new look of Lincoln and was one of the most beautiful and influential cars of the decade.
TIE-DYE AND LINCOLN'S - 1960s
By 1961 the new Continental would be much more than an " all-new car. " In contrast to the garishness of the times, the focus was on simplicity and refinement. In 1961 Continental was available in either a 4-door hardtop or convertible, both with center-opening doors. Just like the original 1939 Continental, this car changed the image of Lincoln overnight. In fact, it was the first automobile to be named Design of the Year by the prestigious Industrial Designers Institute.
THE SWINGING 70s
The 1970s reversed the trend of the 60s and Lincolns once again became larger and plusher. The vehicles established themselves as the ultimate in room and luxury. The sportier Mark IV coupe went after the younger, " new rich " consumers of the early 70s. In 1974 Lincoln introduced the first rear-window defrost system. In addition, Lincolns started a fashion trend. In keeping with the times of over-the-top styles, Lincoln signed on designers like Givenchy, Gucci, Cartier and Bill Blass to put their marks on a Lincoln.
LINCOLN TOPS THE CHARTS - 1980s
The 1980s brought about new landmarks for Lincoln. In 1984 Lincoln achieved supremacy in the personal luxury coupe segment with the VII. In addition, the new Lincoln Continental garnered its own press by being Lincoln's first front-wheel drive car. With the continued success of the Town Car and the rest of the vehicle line, Lincoln rounded out the decade by hitting a record high of 280,659 in total vehicle sales, proving once again that Lincoln was at the top of its game.
TAKING ON THE COMPETITION - 1990s
In the 1990s, Japanese and European brands entered the picture and started competing with the American manufacturers. Again, Lincoln responded with a winner. The 1990 Town Car was named Motor Trend " Car of the Year. " Lincoln launched another star performer in 1993 with the Mark VIII, offering a dramatic exterior design coupled with a driver-oriented interior. However, these cars attracted a slightly older clientele, and Lincoln wanted to broaden its appeal. Enter the 1998 Lincoln Navigator, the first true full-sized ultra-luxury SUV. Like the traditional Lincoln, it was big and luxurious. Its first-in-class, "King-of-the-Road" persona attracted a new set of younger buyers
A NEW CENTURY FOR LINCOLN - 2000sIn the early 2000's, Lincoln concentrated on attracting more young buyers to the brand. It began its crusade with the sporty 2000 LS. This was Lincoln's first entry in the highly competitive luxury sport segment. It was also the first true domestic player in the segment. In order to refresh its vehicle lineup Lincoln introduced an updated 2003 Navigator model that was better than ever, with a number of power features exclusive to its class. Another vehicle that turned heads of the younger generation was the 2002 Aviator, Lincoln's newest SUV - a luxurious, versatile mid-size SUV that's been heralded for its performance and interior. Launched as the spirited offspring of the Navigator, Aviator's nimble design and athletic ability was key to bringing a new audience to Lincoln
