While automotive design has primarily been focused on new SUVs and ways to expand the range of electric vehicles, Lincoln recently created a huge buzz thanks an old-school design. About a month ago the company announced that it would release a limited edition 80th Anniversary Lincoln Continental Coach Door Edition for $110,000. Only 80 of the vehicles, which would feature the iconic “suicide door” design would be made available.
The vehicles, which are modeled after the legendary 1961 Continental, ooze of old-school style. The primary selling point being the doors, which open 90-degrees from the center and swing towards the ends of the car. The 2019 Continental’s wheelbase is actually 6” longer so its doors can open completely.
The nostalgia for this door design helped these six-figure Lincolns sell out within 48 hours of the announcement.
These updated sedans feature a hardtop instead of the traditional convertible, and feature all the modern-day amenities associated with a high-end luxury car. This includes driver assist, wireless device charging, a speedometer projected onto the windshield, a seat with 30-way adjustment and built-in massage, as well as Lincoln’s Black Label trim package. Each vehicle will be built at the Ford Flat Rock assembly plant in Michigan before being shipped to aftermarket specialists for the final touches.
Although the 2019 Continental is a special edition, some analysts could see this type of design taking off in China. Due to limitations on family size and vehicle ownership, a large back seat allows multiple families to use one vehicle. Interestingly enough, this type of need is what precipitated the “suicide” design. The center opening simply allowed for easier access to and from the vehicle.
The 2019 Continental will also have a 3.0-liter twin turbocharged V-6 pumping out 400 horsepower.
The 80 heavily anticipated vehicles are scheduled for delivery this summer. And as you might have guessed, Lincoln has already announced that a 2020 model is in the works.
