USA vs USA — 1961 vs 2002
| Continental 4-Door Convertible | Blackwood 5.4L V8 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 340 hp | 300 hp |
| Torque | 475 lb-ft | 340 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 7,565 cc | 5,408 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 10.5 sec | 8.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 115 mph | 105 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.8 sec | 16.5 sec |
| Weight | — | 5,399 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,200 mm | 3,567 mm |
| Length | 5,412 mm | 5,664 mm |
| Units Produced | 2,857 | 3,356 |
| Original MSRP | — | $52,500 |
| Value (Excellent) | $120,000 | $35,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 8/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1961 Lincoln Continental 4-Door Convertible excels in more power, higher top speed, while the 2002 Lincoln Blackwood 5.4L V8 stands out for quicker acceleration, better value. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
The 1961 Lincoln Continental 4-Door Convertible and 2002 Lincoln Blackwood 5.4L V8 share a manufacturer in Lincoln, but that's where the similarities get interesting. These two models reveal the versatility and ambition of the Lincoln brand. The 1961 Lincoln Continental 4-Door Convertible holds a clear advantage in raw power with 340 hp compared to 300 hp, a 40-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Lincoln Continental uses a V8 OHV 16V displacing 7,565 cc, while the Lincoln Blackwood relies on a V8 DOHC (InTech 5.4L) with 5,408 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2002 Lincoln Blackwood 5.4L V8 edges ahead at 8.5 seconds versus 10.5 seconds. On the collector market, the 1961 Lincoln Continental 4-Door Convertible commands a significant premium over the 2002 Lincoln Blackwood 5.4L V8, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.