As the third generation of Lincolns Mark Series models, the personal-luxury Continental Mark IV was produced from 1972 through 1976, sharing its chassis with the contemporary Ford Thunderbird. Featuring signature hidden headlights with instantly-recognizable Lincoln frontal styling, the Mark IV also featured a Continental trunk lid with a rounded deck reminiscent of classical spare-tire kits and it introduced oval C-pillar opera windows that would inspire their use by several imitators. Power was delivered by Fords top-of-the-line 460 CI V-8 engine, rated 208 horsepower with a still-mighty 338 pounds-feet of torque. All Mk IVs were produced at Fords Wixom, Michigan assembly plant, originally constructed for the Continental Mark II, alongside the standard Lincoln Continental and Ford Thunderbird.

A strong seller, the Mark IV came one way fully loaded, with a commanding $8,640 base price. Epitomizing luxury, and arguably the American archetype for personal luxury in the 1970s, the Continental Mk IV was a virtual fixture on many popular TV shows and movies during the 1970s and 1980s, including Cannon, Wonder Woman, Smokey and the Bandit, Blue Velvet, Fame, and Columbo. In short, the 1972-1976 Lincoln Continental Mark IV is one of the definitive high-end American cars of the 1970s, yet relatively few are seen anywhere today. Fewer still are as well presented and beautifully preserved as this all-original survivor, offered with just 50K original miles and single ownership in Virginia until just recently.

This Silver Moondust Metallic luxury group example retains its original paint and interior throughout. Ford Motor Companys high-torque 460 CI big-block V-8 engine provides ample power in concert with an automatic transmission for cruising ease. As expected, options and amenities are numerous, including an AM/FM radio, air conditioning, cruise control, a power moonroof, power front seats, a rear-window defogger, and power brakes with front discs, power steering with tilt wheel, power locks, and power windows. In addition to the spare wheel;/tire, roadside jack and lug wrench, the Mark IV is accompanied by outstanding documents including the build sheet, original window sticker, sale paperwork including the check for the car & original warranty card, and manuals. Freshly detailed, it is ready to collect and enjoy.