Driving a big luxury coupe has been a sign of financial success since the hard-driving 1960s Mad Men - opens in new window or tab. era. Notable examples include the Cadillac Eldorado - opens in new window or tab., Oldsmobile Toronado - opens in new window or tab., and various Lincoln coupes.
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But all good things (and some bad ones) come to an end. The Lincoln Mark VIll LSC recently listed on eBay represents the end of this era. In its day, it was arguably the ultimate expression of American luxury.
Timeless Style
This Lincoln coupe sports a long hood and a short deck. The design is large yet intimate. The car’s luxuriously cozy cabin coddles the driver and front passenger during commutes and road trips. Rear passengers don’t fare as well but can be accommodated. A personal luxury car was never meant for hauling a family.
The Lincoln Mark VIll LSC is a driver’s car. The dashboard and console angle toward the pilot, making the instruments easy to read and control. The floor-mounted leather-wrapped shifter fits the driver’s hand like a glove.
The front-row passengers enjoy spacious perforated leather seats with ample power adjustments and heat for maximum comfort. Other amenities include:
- A power glass moonroof
- Real burl walnut trim on the dash and console
- Automatic climate control
- Power heated mirrors
- A trip computer
- AM/FM stereo with cassette player
This big Lincoln flagship has aged well. The smooth and aerodynamic styling still looks great. Moreover, the Mark Vlll LSC's design avoids the abundant chrome and vinyl so widespread at the time. Instead, there’s just enough shiny stuff to add contrast, but not dominate the curb appeal.
Looks Like a Space Ship, Preserved Like a Time Capsule
This California car with 67,000 original miles has a factory-red finish with no evidence of dents, scratches, or corrosion. The original alloy wheels - opens in new window or tab. wear Goodyear radial tires - opens in new window or tab..
For all its size and luxurious appointments, the Lincoln Mark VIll LSC hustles along interstates and two-lane roads. This coupe can take off and carve corners while passengers relax comfortably. Its four-wheel independent suspension with front and rear stabilizer bars keeps things on course. A computer-controlled air suspension - opens in new window or tab. smooths the ride, automatically lowering the car for improved aerodynamics.
The Lincoln Mark VIll LSC packs an all-aluminum, 4.6-liter, 32-valve V-8 - opens in new window or tab. good for 280 horsepower, better known for appearing in the contemporary Mustang - opens in new window or tab.. It’s mated to a four-speed automatic transmission driving the rear wheels. A pair of original chrome exhaust tips - opens in new window or tab. are a subtle hint at the car’s prowess.
Most of these cars racked up high miles and succumbed to rust. But this low-mileage example is a ready-to-drive classic—a hard-driving, comfy time machine of an era gone by.
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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.