1969 Lincoln Lehmann Peterson Limousine

1969Lincoln Lehmann Peterson Limousine David: 303.947.0444

The Lehmann Peterson Limousines were built in Chicago but offered exclusively through the Lincoln dealer network. Initially, Ford wasn’t sure they were going to approve production of these cars so the original prototype was left with the Ford engineers, loaded with people and tortured on their test track and subjected to every test they could think of. They discovered that the modified limousine was structurally stiffer than the sedan and only weighed three to five hundred pounds more than the convertible. Ford then offered the full factory warranty on these Chicago converted cars – that was the testament of quality of these conversions. The L-P’s were extremely popular with the Hollywood movie and music scene (Saving Mr. Banks). The layout of forward passengers facing rear passengers was unique and made for a party like atmosphere. Walnut cabinetry containing a then futuristic Sony television, complete rear heat and A/C, and radio controls, made these the Limo to have from 1964 to 1969. This is an early 460 V-8 and has high compression combined with free flowing heads and exhaust manifolds with dual exhaust. So this car makes a ton of power compared to later 460's.

About the car: I purchased this vehicle in Indiana just outside of Illinois, from someone who had intended on making it a Livery vehicle. The plan had fallen through and one of the partners just wanted the car gone because they had invested so much money in it. I received it with the paint and the vinyl on it and the engine bay detailed as you see. Also, attached to it was the little badge that says, “Major Award Winner Lincoln Continental National Competition”. Apparently, this is the only L-P limousine to ever receive this award – at least that is what I was told.

History: Even for a Lehmann Paterson, this vehicle has some interesting history. Almost all of these cars were owned by wealthy people and not funeral homes. This particular car was owned by the owner of the Philadelphia Eagles. It also has a host of unique options which are special even for a car of this magnitude. It has: Leather rear seat option, the rear reading light, the original bar set, front Town and Country radio, cruise control, and rear defogger/extractor. Also, trunk release and an umbrella attached to the front seat as all L-P’s came with. The original Mouton is still there but is covered by a black weather mat, (front and rear). Upon getting the vehicle home, I discovered as usual it was a very shiny piece of junk. I pulled the entire interior out, replaced all the weather strips, sealed the center section windows, repaired the rear A/C and heat, rebuilt the rear Town and Country Radio, repaired all of the power windows to not only fit but to function properly, refurbished the power divider window, and then went through and insulated the car about two times heavier than it came from the factory. Under hood, I replaced a few suspension components, rebuilt the crank driven power steering system, and refurbished the original motor craft carburetor and tuned it for perfect operation. I removed the door handles and had high quality chrome applied to them and removed most of the stainless and had it repolished. One last item, I added a 100 amp alternator and an auxiliary solenoid switch to kick up the idle when sitting still so that the air conditioners would keep the interior icy cold, even on a hot day. As far as I can tell, the car is rust free and I have taken this car virtually all the way apart. The engine bay, when I got it, hadevenextensively detailed. Along with the enginebeingremoved and rebuilt, they painted it with automotive exterior paint,someof it is flaking off, however whatremainslooks quite nice. Examine the engine compartment photos and you will see correct stickers, bolts, hose clamps. This engine compartment was extensively detailed for show, right down to striped vacuum hoses and replated or painted clamps, latches and linkages. Even theauxiliaryrear heater tee hasscrew clampson it wherepower clamps are on thefactory installed hoses. Even thebulkheads are correct on this car.

Recently the base cushion of the front seat was replaced with almost perfect matchpebble grain custom leather, just like the original custom back. All L-P's are luxurious, this is highly optioned beyond the standard L-P equipment.Also, therear AM/FMTown andCountry radio functions as it should through smallauxiliary speakers, however the rear speakers have been upgraded in a hidden AM/FM with high output and fidelity has been added. It features a hideablecontrol and also a remote control. As little as 6 months ago a fresh tune with points,condenser, plugs, plug wires, cap and rotor plus new master cylinder with brake flush and inspection. Also the rear axle has been disassembled with new bearings and seals installed.

What’s wrong with the car: The paint is good but not as nice as I like on the top of the fenders next to the hood. The front header has minor chipping in it and has been touched up. The previous owner installed a manual leveling system which works quite well and is necessary; however I think originally this car had a leveling system from Lincoln (I am not sure about this). When I purchased the car, it was underneath the car on a lift. Some of the transmission fluid had dripped onto the beautiful brand new vinyl top that was applied with the brand new paint. It slightly stained the top at the left hand side near the rear window. However, with an application of vinyl top dressing, it is acceptable but the top will need to be replaced sometime in the future. Recently, while getting the car out of a tight spot, we nicked the driver side rear quarter panel, there is no dent, but the paint will need to be touched up or repainted.

As with all NGDCARS offerings and unlike most collector vehicles, this car is completely drivable. Many collector cars are just shiny, pretty things, this one is beautiful and is fully capable of being driven and enjoyed.

David: 303.947.0444

If you click on any of the photos below, you will be taken to a gallery of all the photos I have of this car.