1956 Continental MkII - exquisite car

Ford had originally formulated the Continental nameplate as a model within the Lincoln division that would take the place of the hugely expensive coachbuilt K-Series as well as the price-leading Zephyr. The Continental proved to be a very popular model that bridged the pre-war and post-war era, earning the distinction of the last V12 powered American production car. But despite its success, the model was discontinued in 1948 in an effort to consolidate production and move Lincoln closer to Mercury in terms of product offerings.
In 1956, however, Ford was riding high with a booming economy and decided the time was right to add a flagship marque to their lineup. They revived the Continental name for a new, stand-alone division that was charged with producing the finest luxury automobile in the world. The Continental Motor Division stood apart and independently from Lincoln, and its first and only model, the Mark II would prove to be one of the most beautiful, expensive and advanced American cars of the day. The Bill Schmidt-designed body was beautifully styled with crisp clean lines; free of de rigueur tail fins, and needless chrome embellishments. With its 126-inch wheelbase and two-door hardtop body, it was a most fantastically elegant machine. At $10,000 in 1956, it was also very expensive, costing nearly as much as an equivalent Rolls-Royce or Mercedes-Benz 300D. Each MkII was essentially hand built, and each one cost Ford at least $1000 in losses. Despite its exquisite beauty and world-class quality, the Continental MkII was canceled after just two years and 2,996 units. For 1958, the division would be folded back into the auspices of Lincoln.
We are very pleased to feature this wonderful 1956 Continental MkII; a fine example that has had just four owners from new and remains in largely original condition showing just over 51,000 miles. It is presented in the most elegant combination of black over two-tone deep red/white leather. This car has been lovingly cared for since day one, and has never had a complete tear down and restoration, though some restoration work has been done over the years to preserve its highly original condition.
Serial Number C56E2897 was originally delivered to a Seattle Mercury dealership owned by Lee Moran. Mr. Moran purchased 2897 as his personal car, which he enjoyed for several years until his untimely passing in a plane crash in 1962. The car remained registered with the Lee Moran Company until 1971 when it was then sold to Ed and Barbara Bichich, also of Washington State. The couple enjoyed the Continental for 41 years until the widowed Mrs. Bichich sold the car to Mr. Bailey of Kirkland, Washington.
In 2013, #2897 found its way to the East Coast where it underwent some careful preservation work, light paintwork and detailing as well as a mechanical servicing. Today, the fabulous MkII presents in beautifully preserved condition with largely original black lacquer paint remaining in very good order, showing some minor crazing in certain light, but maintaining a deep gloss and attractive luster. The original chrome remains in excellent condition, having been simply polished to return to its former glory. The bodywork is very straight and the big doors and panels fit well, showing the meticulous build quality these cars received when they were new.
Inside, the luxurious cabin is trimmed as original in deep red and white Bridge of Weir leather, with deep pile Wilton wool carpeting in red. The upholstery remains in very good condition, with one small repair made during the preservation process, but showing beautifully with original chrome trim, steering wheel and instruments in fine condition.
The big Lincoln-sourced V8 displaces 368 cubic inches (or about 6.0 liters) and is mated to a Lincoln automatic transmission. For the Continental MkII, however, each engine was hand assembled after being balanced and blueprinted for added refinement, and could produce upward of 300 horsepower in late specification. The engine on our featured car runs beautifully, exhibiting no issues and appearing very nicely presented thanks to recent detailing and paint work.
These prestigious, luxurious Continentals rank as some of the finest, most beautiful American cars ever produced. Due to their cost and complexity, few have been treated to the care and attention that this example has enjoyed. With its impeccable style and meticulously preserved condition, this outstanding Continental MkII represents an astounding value in the collector car market and is well suited for show or regular enjoyment on the road.

The Deposit:
Please be ready to place a deposit within 48 hours of auction's close. All transactions must be completed within 7 days of the end of auction. If the car is not as represented upon your personal inspection at our dealership location, you will be under no obligation to purchase.

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International bidders are welcome. I will help in any way I can with coordinating shipping within the U.S. or overseas.

Seller reserves the right to end this listing at anytime should the vehicle no longer be available for sale. Professional pre-purchase inspections are welcome but must be made before the auction ends. We have described the above mentioned vehicle to the best of our ability. However, with all pre-owned automobiles, the condition is subjective, so we recommend that the potential buyer fly out to inspect as well as test drive any of the vehicles before finalizing purchase. If your personal inspection is not possible, we will be glad to help facilitate an inspection by your chosen local independent service center and will make arrangements to deliver the vehicle to them for this purpose.

All vehicles are sold in "AS IS" condition. However, extended warranty options are available on most vehicles. Please be advised that no oral statements concerning any vehicle constitute a representation or warranty of the condition of said vehicle. Our goal is to provide you with the best service and the most comfortable buying experience on eBay. We do not accept escrow, and all inspections must be done prior to delivery. ATTENTION INTERNATIONAL BUYERS: Please be aware that you will be responsible for the Federal Reserve fee(s) charged for all incoming wires).

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Condition Disclaimer:

All used vehicles should be assumed to have some degree of wear. We do not manufacture our product. Each vehicle brand has its strengths, styles, tendencies, and shortcomings. Therefore, despite our best efforts to verify a vehicle's mechanical condition, we are not able to warranty a manufacturers workmanship or a previous owners diligence in care. It is for this reason that all vehicles are sold "AS IS" and there are no mechanical guarantees expressed or implied.

We reserve the right to end the auction at any time.