Continental

Continental was an American automobile brand that operated during the mid-20th century, primarily known for its luxurious and innovative vehicles. The brand was created by the Lincoln division of the Ford Motor Company and initially launched in 1940 with the introduction of the Lincoln Continental. The Continental nameplate became synonymous with American luxury and elegance, particularly due to its stylish design and advanced features. Edsel Ford, son of Henry Ford, played a significant role in the creation of the Continental, envisioning it as a high-end, personal luxury car that could compete with the best European marques. The first-generation Lincoln Continental, produced from 1940 to 1948, was based on the Lincoln Zephyr and featured a long hood, clean lines, and a distinctive “continental” spare tire mounted on the rear, which became an iconic design element. The car was well-received for its sophisticated aesthetics and performance, quickly establishing itself as a symbol of prestige and success. The Continental was often driven by celebrities and influential figures, further cementing its status as a luxury icon. In 1956, the Continental brand was briefly separated from Lincoln to form its own distinct marque, marking the introduction of the Continental Mark II. The Mark II was an ultra-luxurious coupe that aimed to rival the best cars in the world, such as Rolls-Royce and Cadillac. Priced at around $10,000—an astronomical sum at the time—the Mark II featured meticulous craftsmanship, hand-built quality, and advanced engineering. Despite its high price and limited production, the Mark II was celebrated for its elegance and exclusivity, becoming a collector’s item in later years. Following the Mark II, the Continental name was reintegrated into the Lincoln lineup, continuing the tradition of producing high-end luxury vehicles.