One of Lincoln’s most iconic concept cars, the 2002 Continental, will go under the hammer at RM Auctions’ November 14-15 event in Dallas, Texas.
Part of Texas businessman Sam Pack’s collection, the 2002 Lincoln Continental is offered at no reserve alongside other Ford Motor Company concept cars. Unveiled at the 2002 Los Angeles Auto Show, the retro-futuristic Lincoln Continental concept combined styling cues from the 1960s Continental with modern design, with the final result enjoying an enthusiast reception at the time, both from the press and the public.
Judging from the public response to the study, Ford was expected to bring a production version that would replace the Town Car. However, the Continental never made it to the assembly lines. For me that’s a shame, I think a production model based on this concept could have been successful, as it would have made a cool-looking flagship model.
The study is powered by a V12 engine producing 414 hp and 412 lb-ft (558 Nm) of torque, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. It also features a multi-link independent suspension front and back and ABS.
One of its hallmark design elements are the suicide doors, a homage to the 1961 Lincoln Continental. They also hint at the study’s clever use of interior space, which was one of the main themes of the car. The doors open to 90 degrees, with access to the cabin also being facilitated by the pillarless layout.
The car also featured gimmicks like fiber optic ambient lighting integrated into the headliners and door panels (not that common at the time) as well as LED technology. The powered trunk reveals three sliding storage drawers that stay horizontal at all times, and includes a set of Zero Halliburton luggage.
The Continental concept was last sold for $56,100 at an RM Auctions event in August 2010. Unfortunately, the electronics and the powertrain don’t run, but even if they did the concept couldn’t be driven on public roads, as it doesn’t feature any modern crash technology apart from the seat belts. Still, if you owned your own road, that wouldn’t be a problem.
Story references: AutoWeek
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