Lincoln: Built for Speed and Luxury

May 23
08:17

2024

Amy F. Michaels

Amy F. Michaels

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Henry M. Leland, after parting ways with Cadillac, established Lincoln in 1917 with the ambition of crafting high-end automobiles. Named in honor of his hero, Abraham Lincoln, the company faced initial struggles in marketing and production, leading to its acquisition by Ford Motor Company five years later.

A Visionary Start

Henry M. Leland's departure from Cadillac marked the beginning of Lincoln in 1917. His vision was to create luxury vehicles,Lincoln: Built for Speed and Luxury Articles and he named the company after his idol, Abraham Lincoln. However, the early years were fraught with challenges in both marketing and manufacturing, culminating in the sale of Lincoln to Ford Motor Company in 1922.

Ford's Strategic Acquisition

Henry Ford saw immense potential in acquiring Lincoln, integrating it as the luxury division of Ford Motor Company. This strategic move paid off, as Lincoln quickly rose to prominence, becoming one of the top-selling luxury car brands in the United States. By the late 1920s, Lincoln was a formidable competitor to Packard and Cadillac.

The Roaring Twenties and Beyond

During the 1920s, the Lincoln Touring car was a standout model. However, it wasn't until after World War II that Lincoln began to innovate significantly, introducing iconic models such as the Lincoln Continental, Convertible, and Town Car. These models set new standards in luxury and design.

Presidential Prestige

One of Lincoln's most distinguished achievements is its long history of providing official state limousines for U.S. Presidents. The tradition began with Franklin D. Roosevelt, who was presented with the Sunshine Special, a Lincoln V12 convertible. This tradition continued until 2004, with George W. Bush receiving a specially designed model.

Presidential Limousines: A Legacy of Safety and Luxury

Given the importance of presidential security, Lincoln's vehicles were equipped with numerous safety features, including armor plating, bulletproof glass, and sunroofs. Each president's vehicle was customized according to the Secret Service's specifications, ensuring maximum protection.

Interesting Stats and Facts

  • Market Share: By the late 1920s, Lincoln had captured a significant share of the luxury car market, often competing head-to-head with Cadillac and Packard. Source: Automotive News
  • Presidential Limousines: Lincoln has provided vehicles for nine U.S. Presidents, from Franklin D. Roosevelt to George W. Bush. Source: History.com
  • Innovations: The Lincoln Continental, introduced in 1939, was one of the first cars to feature a V12 engine, setting a new benchmark for luxury vehicles. Source: MotorTrend

Conclusion

Lincoln's journey from its inception in 1917 to becoming a symbol of luxury and speed is a testament to its resilience and innovation. Under Ford's stewardship, Lincoln not only survived but thrived, setting new standards in the automotive industry and earning a prestigious place in American history.

For more detailed insights into Lincoln's history and its impact on the automotive industry, visit Ford's official site.

This article provides a comprehensive overview of Lincoln's history, highlighting its challenges, achievements, and contributions to the luxury car market. With a focus on detailed facts and statistics, it offers a unique perspective on a brand that has become synonymous with American luxury and innovation.