Lincoln Continental Mark IV. 1972–6 (prod. 278,599). 2-door coupé. F/R, 460 in³ (V8 OHV). Still based on the Ford Thunderbird and not to be confused with the car of the same name from 1959, though both were too big for their time. Bigger than Mark III with 3 in stretch in wheelbase, with ultra-poor handling though slightly better workmanship. Despite bulk, lighter than Mark III at launch. Emissions’ controls meant that V8 power was sapped, and gas mileage dropped into the single digits. Lincoln blissfully ignored the fuel crisis and the Mark IV stayed with its large 7·5-litre block through its run. Designer Series with trim, colour and interiors chosen by fashion designers, in 1976, which helped pick up dropping post-fuel crisis sales. A successful run for Lincoln, holding the record at the time for numbers made in a single line.

Manufacturing location: Wixom, Michigan, USA

Marque: Lincoln | Model: Lincoln Continental | Predecessor: Lincoln Continental Mark III | Successor: Lincoln Continental Mark V (1977–9)