1965 LINCOLN CONTINENTAL 4­DR CONVERTIBLE SEDAN
Designer: Elwood Engel

Estimate: $35,000 ­ - $45,000

Chassis Number: 5Y86N424394
Decoded: 5=1965; Y=Wixom, MI assembly plant; 86=Convertible­ Sedan; N=430 cid V8;
424394=24,394th 1965 Lincoln scheduled for production at Wixom
Engine: 430 cid OHV V8
4­-barrel Carburetor / 320 bhp
3­-Speed Automatic Transmission
Power Assisted Front Disc and Drum Rear Brakes
Mileage: 98,825

● Disappearing Top 4­dr Convertible
● Styling Fit for a President
● Recognized Milestone Car

The Model: After WWII, Cadillac owned the luxury market and Ford’s Lincoln brand was looking for its own niche Still powered by prewar flathead engines, albeit, 12­cylinders, sales lagged. The “Road Race” era built sales, but fell short of being a true brand. During the mid­ 1950’s, headway was made, until the 1958­1960 models were released Then came pure design genius with the slab-­sided 1961 Continentals design by Elwood Engel. Proving “less­ is­ more” these elegant cars were very well built, and even the President of the United States had several in his fleet. After the November 1963 tragedy in Dallas, LBJ continued to use Lincolns, with a fleet of convertibles at his command. Many of the cars assigned to the Texas White House found duty crossing a plowed field trying to round ­up a stray calf or two. They held up to that punishment and the Lincoln look redefined automotive design for the 1960’s.

The Car: While the original history of this car isn’t known, it's build plate, provides one clue that could aid in doing some research as under the DSO entry, (District Sale Office), the number “84” appears, which translates to “Home Office Reserve”, meaning this car was ordered for a special purpose from within the halls of Ford Motor Company. Finished in its original color of Arctic White, the seats are trimmed in the pleated black leather pattern specified on the build plate. All the bells and whistles of the day are included such as power windows, seats, steering, brakes, locks and even the radio antenna. This Lincoln is also fitted with AM radio and Tilt-Steering wheel, and air-­conditioning. Stored inside through several owners, including AACA members, this is an outstanding piece of American automotive ingenuity and with that “84” DSO, and being in this part of Texas, who knows what mysteries it might have.