In all respects, the Continental Mark II was a radical departure for Ford Motor Company so much so, the car was not even badged as a Lincoln. Instead, it was the launch product of the new Continental Division of the Ford Motor Company, with a dedicated assembly plant in Wixom, Michigan near Detroit. Development was spearheaded by William Clay Ford and key staff included chief body engineer Gordon Buehrig of Duesenberg and Auburn renown. With excellent lines and tasteful adornments, the understated Continental Mark II emphasized elegance over flamboyance, with proportions similar to those of the Thunderbird and an homage to the original Continentals of the 1940s, a molded trunk lid in the shape of a concealed spare tire. Under the four-pointed star on the hood resided a new, dynamometer-tested 368-CI V-8 engine developing nearly 300 HP. 
A product of exceptional quality, the Mark II was largely hand-built with only the finest materials used throughout. Buyers could choose from 19 standard exterior colors and 43 interior design schemes with five fabric options. Even with an initial sticker price of nearly $11,000 more than a contemporary Rolls-Royce, Ford reportedly lost thousands on every Mark II built. Mark II buyers were the eras wealthiest and most famous, including Elvis Presley, Frank Sinatra, Nelson Rockefeller and President Dwight Eisenhower. Conceived at the height of automotive fashion, the 1955 dbut of the Mark II at Paris was fitting. Production was limited, numbering 1,325 for 1956 and 444 for 1957. Today, these glamorous vehicles continue to rank among the postwar eras finest.

Finished in Burgundy over matching upholstery with Grey accents, this 1956 Continental Mark II is a highly attractive example throughout and continues to benefit from a quality restoration. Comprehensive standard features and amenities include power-assisted brakes, steering, front seat, side and vent windows, plus full instrumentation including a tachometer and low-fuel warning indicator. Air conditioning, a rare option, is present but inoperative. Offered from 22 years of single ownership, this Continental Mark II was shown just once at the Geneva Concours dElegance. A recent test drive confirms it drives well and straight, without rattles or squeaks, and tracks and stops straight, providing a proper driving experience. Handsomely presented and offered from long-term ownership, this sophisticated 1956 Continental Mark II stands proudly as Ford Motor Companys top product for 1956-57. Contact us now to see this rare, glamorous and highly collectible postwar icon for yourself and make purchase arrangements!