The Lincoln Continental Select represents the pinnacle of American luxury sedans from a bygone era, blending sophisticated design with robust performance. This iconic vehicle captured the imagination of drivers seeking a premium experience without the European price tag, offering a unique combination of comfort, style, and V8 power. Its presence on the road signaled success and discerning taste, making it a memorable chapter in Ford's luxury division history.
A Legacy of American Luxury
Introduced to the public in 1979, the Continental Select was a response to the growing demand for a more upscale Lincoln experience. It sat above the Continental base model, positioning itself as a direct competitor to the likes of the Cadillac DeVille. The Select package was designed to elevate the standard Continental with distinctive features that justified its premium positioning and reinforced Lincoln's commitment to luxury.
Design and Exterior Elegance
Visually, the Lincoln Continental Select is defined by its elegant yet authoritative stance. The signature waterfall grille, a Lincoln hallmark, was prominently featured, flanked by sharp rectangular headlights that gave the car a distinctive and memorable face. Chrome detailing was used generously, adorning the window moldings, wheel covers, and the rear trim, catching the light and emphasizing the car's substantial presence.
Distinctive waterfall grille design
Chrome-accented windows and trim
Commanding rear-quarter styling
Available wire-spoke or turbine-style wheels
Interior Comfort and Technology
Step inside the Lincoln Continental Select, and the focus on luxury becomes immediately apparent. The cabin was a sanctuary of comfort, upholstered in premium vinyl or available leather, with deep-padded seats that offered excellent support for long journeys. The dashboard was laid out with driver-centric controls, featuring a classic, non-digital aesthetic that prioritized readability and tactile feedback.
The Select trim often included upgraded instrumentation and a more refined woodgrain interior package, setting it apart from the base model. Power amenities were a given, with power windows, power seats, and a power tilt-telescoping steering wheel ensuring that comfort was never compromised. The available AM/FM stereo provided a modern touch for its time, allowing occupants to personalize their driving environment.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
Under the hood, the Lincoln Continental Select delivered the power expected of a full-size luxury sedan. The standard 460 cubic-inch V8 engine was a brute, producing ample torque for effortless passing and highway merging. This robust powerplant was mated to a smooth three-speed automatic transmission, providing reliable and confident acceleration in all driving scenarios.
Safety and Reliability Considerations
While modern safety standards were less stringent when the Continental Select was new, the car was built with a sturdy frame and substantial steel construction, providing a sense of solidity. Features like front and rear bumpers designed to withstand minor impacts were standard for the era. Owning a vehicle of this age today requires a commitment to regular maintenance, focusing on the condition of seals, gaskets, and the cooling system to ensure continued reliability.
