USA vs USA — 1981 vs 2017
| Town Car Cartier Edition | Continental Black Label 3.0T | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 239 hp | 400 hp |
| Torque | 285 lb-ft | 400 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,601 cc | 2,956 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 8.3 sec | 5.1 sec |
| Top Speed | 115 mph | 155 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.5 sec | 13.6 sec |
| Weight | 4,168 lbs | 4,452 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,990 mm | 2,994 mm |
| Length | 5,556 mm | 5,116 mm |
| Original MSRP | $47,915 | $69,350 |
| Value (Excellent) | $18,000 | $50,000 |
| Collectibility | 4/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 2/10 | 5/10 |
The 2017 Lincoln Continental Black Label 3.0T emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1981 Lincoln Town Car Cartier Edition counters with lighter weight, better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
Within the Lincoln stable, the 1981 Lincoln Town Car Cartier Edition and 2017 Lincoln Continental Black Label 3.0T represent different approaches to performance and purpose. Both carry the Lincoln badge, yet each carves out its own distinct identity. The 2017 Lincoln Continental Black Label 3.0T holds a clear advantage in raw power with 400 hp compared to 239 hp, a 161-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Lincoln Town Car uses a V8 OHV displacing 4,601 cc, while the Lincoln Continental relies on a V6 DOHC Twin-Turbo with 2,956 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2017 Lincoln Continental Black Label 3.0T edges ahead at 5.1 seconds versus 8.3 seconds. The Lincoln Town Car carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 284 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 2017 Lincoln Continental Black Label 3.0T commands a significant premium over the 1981 Lincoln Town Car Cartier Edition, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.