USA vs USA — 1956 vs 1981
| Continental Mark II Mark II | Town Car Cartier Edition | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 285 hp | 239 hp |
| Torque | 385 lb-ft | 285 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 6,031 cc | 4,601 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 11.5 sec | 8.3 sec |
| Top Speed | 115 mph | 115 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 18.0 sec | 16.5 sec |
| Weight | — | 4,168 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,048 mm | 2,990 mm |
| Length | 5,461 mm | 5,556 mm |
| Units Produced | 2,994 | — |
| Original MSRP | — | $47,915 |
| Value (Excellent) | $80,000 | $18,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 4/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 2/10 |
This matchup is remarkably close. The 1956 Lincoln Continental Mark II Mark II offers more power, stronger collectibility, while the 1981 Lincoln Town Car Cartier Edition counters with quicker acceleration, better value. Neither holds a decisive advantage, making this a true enthusiast's dilemma. Your choice ultimately depends on which driving philosophy resonates more with you.
Within the Lincoln stable, the 1956 Lincoln Continental Mark II Mark II and 1981 Lincoln Town Car Cartier Edition represent different approaches to performance and purpose. Both carry the Lincoln badge, yet each carves out its own distinct identity. The 1956 Lincoln Continental Mark II Mark II holds a clear advantage in raw power with 285 hp compared to 239 hp, a 46-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1981 Lincoln Town Car Cartier Edition edges ahead at 8.3 seconds versus 11.5 seconds. On the collector market, the 1956 Lincoln Continental Mark II Mark II commands a significant premium over the 1981 Lincoln Town Car Cartier Edition, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.