A Classic Reimagined: The 1968 Lincoln Continental 2 Door

Hey guys! Today, we're taking a deep dive into a true legend of American automotive history: the 1968 Lincoln Continental 2-door. This isn't just any car; it's a statement. A symbol of luxury, power, and a bygone era of automotive design that still turns heads today. The 1968 model year holds a special place in the hearts of collectors and enthusiasts alike, and the two-door version, in particular, offers a sleeker, more personal take on the Continental's already imposing presence. We're talking about a car that practically oozed sophistication from every chrome-laden inch, a vehicle designed for those who appreciated the finer things in life and weren't afraid to show it.

When you think of the late 60s, you might picture bell-bottoms and rock and roll, but in the automotive world, it was also a golden age for large, luxurious American sedans and coupes. Lincoln, always at the forefront of American luxury, delivered a masterpiece with the 1968 Continental. The two-door variant, often referred to as the coupe, was the epitome of personal luxury. It combined the robust engineering and plush ride expected from Lincoln with a more exclusive, sporting silhouette. Unlike its four-door brethren, the two-door model offered a more intimate driving experience, a cockpit designed for the driver and a single companion to enjoy the journey in unparalleled comfort and style.

The design language of the 1968 Continental 2-door was a masterful blend of sharp lines and elegant curves. It wasn't just about size; it was about presence. The long hood, the distinctive grille, the subtle yet purposeful creases along the body – all these elements worked in harmony to create a car that looked as good parked as it did cruising down the highway. The suicide doors on the four-door models were a signature feature, but the two-door retained a classic coupe profile that was equally, if not more, desirable for many. We'll explore what made this car so special, from its powerful V8 engines to its surprisingly advanced features for the time, and why it remains a highly sought-after classic today. So, buckle up, and let's take a trip back in time to appreciate the enduring appeal of the 1968 Lincoln Continental 2-door.

Under the Hood: Powering the 1968 Lincoln Continental 2 Door

Let's talk about what really makes this beauty roar: the engine! The 1968 Lincoln Continental 2-door was not messing around when it came to power. Under that long, elegant hood, you'd typically find a massive V8 engine, specifically Lincoln's own 462 cubic inch (7.6-liter) V8, often referred to as the "Super Commando." This engine was a torque monster, designed to provide effortless cruising power and smooth acceleration. We're talking about an engine that produced around 340 horsepower and a hefty 485 lb-ft of torque. That's enough grunt to move this substantial luxury coupe with surprising ease, making highway passes a breeze and long journeys feel like floating on air. This wasn't a sports car engine built for screaming RPMs; it was a refined powerhouse engineered for smooth, quiet, and relentless torque delivery, perfectly complementing the car's luxury persona.

Paired with this formidable V8 was typically Ford's robust C6 SelectShift automatic transmission. This three-speed automatic was known for its durability and smooth shifting, ensuring that the power from the big V8 was delivered to the rear wheels without any fuss. The combination of the 462 V8 and the C6 transmission created a driving experience that was both potent and incredibly refined. It allowed the Continental to glide down the road, absorbing bumps and imperfections with ease thanks to its sophisticated suspension system, which included independent front suspension and a solid rear axle with leaf springs. The intention was clear: to provide a ride that was as smooth and quiet as possible, cocooning its occupants in a sanctuary of comfort.

Fuel economy? Well, let's be honest, that wasn't exactly a primary concern for cars like the 1968 Continental. These were built in an era where gasoline was relatively cheap, and the focus was on performance, luxury, and size. However, for its time, the 462 V8 was a well-engineered piece, designed for reliability and ample power. Drivers appreciated the sheer muscle and the confidence it provided, whether merging onto a busy freeway or tackling a steep incline. The sound of that V8, a deep, resonant rumble, was part of the overall luxurious experience, a subtle reminder of the potent engineering lurking beneath the surface. For anyone looking to own a piece of automotive history that offers genuine performance alongside iconic styling, the powertrain of the 1968 Lincoln Continental 2-door is a major part of its undeniable charm and enduring appeal.

Design and D

This is where the 1968 Lincoln Continental 2-door truly shines. It’s a car that embodies a specific kind of American automotive elegance, a design philosophy that prioritized presence, clean lines, and a touch of understated opulence. The 1968 model year saw a subtle yet significant evolution of the Continental's styling, building upon the acclaimed