For years, the Lincoln Continental Mark Vii might have slipped under the radar for many car enthusiasts. Perhaps, like me, your first encounter was seeing one in your neighborhood back in the late 80s. I recall a neighbor, a surgeon, who owned a sleek, all-black LSC (Luxury Sport Coupe). It wasn’t the typical chrome-laden, whitewall version, but a Darth Vader-esque ride with black BBS-style wheels and Goodyear Eagle tires. Even then, as a teenager, the thought crossed my mind: if you had to drive a mature, sophisticated car, the Mark VII LSC wasn’t a bad choice at all. Automotive magazines of the time seemed to agree, albeit with more professional enthusiasm. However, like a TV show that fades after its initial run, the Mark VII largely disappeared from my thoughts as daily drivers moved on. Until recently.
Lately, these stylish coupes have been resurfacing in online marketplaces, catching my eye. Their blend of classic American design, confident road presence, and the readily modifiable Fox platform chassis have sparked a renewed interest. Could the Lincoln Continental Mark VII be an unexpectedly appealing and budget-friendly V8 cruiser?
Lincoln Continental Mark VII front view
The Lincoln Continental Mark VII, adopting that name from 1986 to 1992, represents a significant leap forward from its predecessor. The Mark VI, built on the Panther platform, was a less successful attempt at downsizing, retaining the bulky styling and excessive overhangs of earlier land yachts. It appeared somewhat awkward and failed to resonate with younger luxury car buyers who were increasingly drawn to European marques like BMW, Jaguar, and Mercedes-Benz. A simple refresh of the Mark VI was insufficient to recapture these discerning customers. The Mark VII, however, offered a fresh approach, aiming to retain traditional Lincoln buyers while attracting a new generation seeking a more contemporary luxury coupe. Ford’s strategy appeared effective, with robust sales figures totaling around 191,000 units between 1984 and 1992.
The automotive press responded positively. While acknowledging that the Mark VII wasn’t quite a BMW 635CSi or a Mercedes-Benz 560 SEC in terms of outright performance, it was lauded as the best-handling American personal luxury car of its time. Larry Griffin of Car and Driver noted that while it might not have possessed the razor-sharp steering or Autobahn-tuned suspension of its German rivals, the Mark VII was arguably more comfortable and practical for everyday driving. Crucially, its visual appeal was undeniable. The Mark VII cleverly combined Ford’s aerodynamic styling cues, inspired by the Thunderbird Turbo Coupe’s NASCAR heritage, with classic Lincoln elements like the chrome grille and a subtle nod to the spare tire hump of earlier models. Surprisingly, this fusion worked exceptionally well. The Mark VII was, and remains, a handsome car, and it pioneered several innovations. The Mark VII LSC was the first American vehicle to feature four-channel ABS anti-lock brakes and modern composite headlights with replaceable halogen bulbs.
Lincoln Mark VII Front Angle View
Performance-wise, the Mark VII was respectable for its era. Emerging from the end of the Malaise era, it benefited from enhancements to Ford’s durable 5.0-liter V-8 engine, also found in the contemporary Ford Mustang. Generally, later Mark VII models are more desirable. 1989 and later versions received quicker steering, an upgraded analog instrument panel, and the higher-output 225 horsepower HO V-8 engine. However, for today’s enthusiasts, these factory specifications are just the starting point. The internet is rich with forums and videos showcasing heavily modified Mark VIIs. Virtually any performance upgrade available for Fox-body Mustangs can be adapted to the Mark VII. The sometimes problematic air-suspension can be refurbished, upgraded, or replaced with more conventional and sportier steel springs and shocks. Larger wheels and performance brakes are readily available, as are aftermarket exhaust systems that add a muscular soundtrack to the car’s refined appearance. Manual transmission swaps are even documented, offering a truly engaging driving experience.
Another compelling aspect of the Lincoln Continental Mark VII is its affordability. While prices saw an uptick during the recent surge in classic car values, even the top-tier 1989 LSC in excellent (#2) condition is valued at around $25,000 in the Hagerty Price Guide. Many examples in good (#3) condition can be found for closer to $9,000 or $10,000. This accessibility is what truly distinguishes the Mark VII. It presents a blank canvas, allowing owners to create the high-performance luxury coupe that Dearborn might have built with unlimited resources – a car with the potential to rival BMW M6s and Mercedes 560 SECs at a fraction of the cost.
Lincoln Mark VII side profile at auction
Lincoln Mark VII interior view at auction
