1964 Lincoln Continental

Continental Convertible

460c.i

Automatic

4Y86N422720

Clear

Gasoline

1964 Lincoln Continental Convertible "Suicide 4-Door" Lincoln - 2 Owner California Car Owned by the Current Family for 20+ Years - Being Offered due to Dissolution of the Owner's Estate Low Mileage, Believed to be Original - A True California "Survivor" LOW RESERVE! _______________________________________________ PLEASE NOTE: EACH TIME WE LIST A VEHICLE ON EBAY WE RECEIVE COMMENTS THAT THERE ARE NO PHOTOS OF THE INTERIOR, ENGINE, UNDERCARRIAGE, ETC. OF THE CAR. THERE ARE 100~ PHOTOS OF ALL AREAS OF THE CAR BUT, WHEN YOU REACH WHAT APPEARS TO BE THE LAST PHOTO, YOU WILL NEED TO SCROLL DOWN ON eBAY IN ODER TO VIEW THE REMAINING PHOTOS. IF YOU ARE STILL UNABLE TO SEE THE PHOTOS, PLEASE CALL US AT  925-846-1451 AND WE WILL PROVIDE A LINK FOR THE PHOTOS (IT IS A VIOLATION OF eBAY POLICY TO LIST THE URL ON THE eBAY LISTING). 1964 LINCOLN- HISTORY / FACTS The Lincoln Continental was an automobile produced by the Lincoln division of Ford Motor Company between 1939 and 2002. Despite often sharing underpinnings with less-expensive Fords, the Continental was usually a distinctively styled, highly equipped luxury car. In 1964, the Continental was completely redesigned by Elwood Engel. For the first time, the names Lincoln and Continental would be paired on a car other than one in the Mark series. The design was originally intended to be the new 1964 Ford Thunderbird, but the concept was enlarged and slightly altered before being switched to the Lincoln line by Robert McNamara. One of the most striking features of the new Continental was its size. It was two feet shorter than its predecessor. So much smaller was this car, that advertising executives at Ford photographed a woman parallel parking a sedan for a magazine spread. The new Continental's most recognized trademark, front opening rear doors, was a purely practical decision. The new Continental rode a wheelbase of 123", and the doors were hinged from the rear to ease ingress and egress. When the Lincoln engineers were examining the back seats that styling had made up, the engineers kept hitting the rear doors with their feet. Hinging the doors from the rear solved the problem. The suicide doors were to become the best-known feature of 1960's Lincolns. To simplify production (in the beginning, anyway), all cars were to be four-door models, and only two body styles were offered, sedan or convertible. The 1964 model was the first car manufactured in America to be sold with a 24,000 mi (38,624 km) or 2-year bumper-to-bumper warranty. It was also the first postwar four-door convertible from a major U.S. manufacturer. The 1964 Lincoln Continental was really Engel's design masterpiece, considered by many to be pinnacle of Lincoln style. Even the dashboard was his design. This may have been the last time a single individual was responsible for the complete design of a production car. The 1964 Lincoln's striking, understated elegance immediately won a major design award and was widely copied by other manufacturers-- note the similarity of the 1963 Cadillac and the 1963 Buick Electra. It was a sales success, with 25,160 sold. Continentals of this generation are favored by collectors, and have appeared in movies such as "The Matrix", "The Last Action Hero", and Inspector Gadget movies, the TV series "Pushing Daisies", and recently in the opening sequence of the TV series "Entourage". Ford produced several concept cars which recalled this design. In 2007, Lincoln's 2007 SUV line adopted massive chrome grilles in the style of these classic Continentals. This slab-sided design ran from 1964 through 1969 with few changes from year to year. Lincoln dealers began to find that many people who bought 1964 and post-1964 models were keeping their cars longer. (Thanks to Wikipedia!) 1964 LINCOLN SPECIFICATIONS Production1964-1969 AssemblyWixom, Michigan, USA Body style(s) 4-door convertible 4-door pillared hardtop sedan 2-door hardtop coupe Layout Front layout Engine(s) 460 cu in (7.5 L) 385-series V8 Wheelbase 123.0 in. (3124 mm) Length1964-65: 215.9 in (5484 mm) 1966-69: 220.9 in (5611 mm) Width1964-65: 78.7 in (1999 mm) 1966-69: 79.7 in (2024 mm) Height55.0 in (1397 mm) Designer Elwood Engel THIS 1964 LINCOLN- "SUICIDE 4-DOOR" CONVERTIBLE This 1964 Lincoln convertible is desirable for a number of reasons. In addition to being the first post-war 4 door convertible and offering "suicide doors" on a convertible, this particular car has been owned by only two, Northern California Bay area owners. In fact, the Lincoln has been under the care of its current owner for over 20 years. He purchased the car directly from its original owner, a local physician, who had the car for close to 30 years. The car is being offered by the family of the owner as part of the dissolution of his estate. This Lincoln is a good example of a car that was produced at a time when American car producers were respected for their products and long before the days of "micro" and "Mini" cars. In "the day", big was good and the Lincoln was great!! This car falls into the category of a rare California "survivor" that has had the benefit of cosmetic enhancements but remains virtually stock in its mechanical configuration. While the car was used less frequently in the owner's later years, it had previously received regular and ongoing serve / maintenance by its owner. The condition of the cars cosmetics (body, chrome and trim) certainly support that the car has always "lived" in California as does the presence of the original black / yellow license plates that were issued when the car was new. The photographs accurately reflect that the Lincoln is a solid car and free from rot or rust through. Even the underside shows no damage or rust in the floors, rocker panels, trunk or other areas of rust often found on cars that were exposed to "rust belt" regions in the USA in their early lives. The body is free from major dents, and damage and the chrome and aluminum / stainless trim in very good condition (Please refer to the close-up photos). Over the years, it appears as if the car received on re-paint in its original color. It is certainly understandable why the owner receives attention whenever he takes the Lincoln out of the garage. Unlike many more common cars of the 50's / 60's the Lincoln is a car that you rarely see and there is no question that the cars beautiful color combination increases the interest in the Continental. Listed below by category are highlights of the Lincoln including an evaluation of its mechanical, cosmetic and running / driving condition. CONDITION We find it increasingly difficult to find limited owner California cars that remain have had long term ownership, remain in totally stock condition and have lived their entire life in sunny, warm, inland Northern California. To find a desirable '64 "Suicide door" Lincoln convertible in very original condition is a real treat. Based on the overall condition of the Lincoln it is difficult to imagine that it will soon be turning 50 years of age. While the car was used more sparingly in later years by its elderly owner, the car had been well maintained and has recently been "Freshened up" for its new owner. Perhaps most important is the fact that the car has always been and remains a very solid rust free example. Since the maintenance / repair records could not be located due to the owner's death, the car was taken to a repair facility to be inspected and the family agreed to have the essential and safety related repairs performed on the car. There were also other repairs performed to ensure the car is usable / drivable (repairs to the power window regulator and other components, ensuring the convertible top is fully functional, tune-up, oil service, and more). While minor issues exist (more on this later) the items can be addressed over time while the Lincoln is enjoyed by its new owner. Despite the age of the Lincoln, as a result of its life in California, it remains a very attractive, nice running original example. Highlights of the Lincoln include: -California title supports that the Lincoln was delivered new in California in 1964 -Original Black / Gold California license plates (front & rear) to support the cars original California lineage -Most recent owner had possession of the Lincoln for 20~ years -Two California Owner's and always in California -Local Northern California (S.F. Bay area) car EXTERIOR -One re-spray in the factory original gold color.still shows well -Fully functional convertible top electrics and hydraulics! - Convertible top in solid condition with minor cosmetic imperfections and clear rear window -No signs or indications of panel replacement or body damage - No exterior or undercarriage rust through / damage -Extremely original "honest" California example -Clean body with solid closing doors, trunk and hood -Excellent panel gaps / fitment -Nice original "California chrome" on front & rear bumpers (straight / damage free) -Exterior trim (stainless & chrome) chrome in nice condition, free from rust / damage -Proper aluminum windshield wiper arms & blade holders -Factory original hubcaps / wheels -Very clean trunk area with no rust / rot or signs of hydraulic fluid leaking -Solid damage & rust free, underside including frame and floor pans INTERIOR -Color coordinated tan re-upholstered in durable vinyl (appearance similar to original materials) -Matching carpet also color coordinated to interior / exterior & color coordinated floor mats -Nice original door panels & trim -No damage/crack dash -Functional original AM/FM push-button radio & power antenna -Factory original dash and gauges with excellent trim & glass -Virtually perfect steering wheel rim / working horn -Very nice sun visors -Very nice stainless & chrome interior trim -Factory original radio (functional!) -Turn signals and lights fully functional (passed recent Ca. safety inspection) -Original interior remains in very good condition -Functional speedometer ENGINE BAY -100% original and completely configured -Even small items like the original windshield washer bag are in place -All A/C components in place but air conditioning has not been checked / serviced - Recent battery SUMMARY OF MECHANICAL WORK / REPAIRS The following represents a summary of the work that has been performed on the Lincoln within the previous 100 miles (receipts / documentation included with the sale of the car): -Completely new brakes (4 wheels) (shoes, wheel cylinders, hoses and related components) - Bleed and adjust -Flush & bleed system -Several fuel hoses replaced & system drained / replenished with fresh fuel -Safety inspection performed and all lights (headlights, turn signals, brake lights, etc.) checked and OK -Car will be delivered with new tires (existing tires are old and showing cracks in sidewalls) -Complete oil / filter service -Tune-up MECHANICAL SUMMARY -Very strong running / driving Lincoln Suicide door convertible -Recently received a service and fluids including oil service -Recently tuned including new spark plugs, points, carburetor adjustment & fine tuning -Car starts immediately when cold or warm -The cars power equipment is functional including: P/S, P/B, power seats and power windows -Does not smoke or make any unusual noises, no noise in the drive-line -Transmission shifts well with no slipping, hesitation or issues -No unusual noise in the engine, transmission or drive-line -Good power brakes -The car has passed the required California safety inspection with no findings (as of January 29, 2013) OPPORTUNITY AREAS When it comes to vehicles of this age we recognize that even very well cared for cars have ongoing needs and require regular maintenance. A general inspection of this car reveals the following "opportunity areas" that can be addressed by the new owner at their convenience. Since the car had been sitting for a time prior to being brought out of storage we do recommend that it receive a comprehensive evaluation prior to being used for long trips or as regular transportation. -Air conditioning - Due to the car sitting for some time it clearly needs a recharge, possibly more. However, we have not diagnosed the system or any specific needs that it may have. -Instruments - The speedometer, dash lights and other lights work (headlights, brake lights, running lights, turn signals). However a few gauges (water temperature, odometer and possibly others) appear to be working sporadically or not at all. -Leaf spring and control arm bushings - Show some cracking from age -Tires - The tires on the car are bad but will wither be replaced with new proper sized radials or an amount of $500.00 will be deducted from the sale price of the Lincoln. - Wheel alignment / front end bushings - The tires are old and bias ply. The combination results in the car wandering and not driving as well as could be expected. A new set of tires, front end alignment and making sure the front end bushing are good would certainly have a positive effect on the overall drivability of the Lincoln. SUMMARY This is a classic Lincoln that will be right at home at your local car club gathering, show or event. However, it is also a reliable, comfortable and usable classic that could even be used on a regular basis should the new owner so desire. With some attention to a few items the car will be improved even further. Not only does the car run and drive great, it is a striking example, is free from major rust, has the original California black/gold plates to document its history and has had limited ownership. The car is not perfect cosmetically but it is a very original, rust free California car. In fact the charm of a Lincoln like this is that signs of "patina" actually enhance the appearance and originality of the car. Perhaps the best part is that the Lincoln is being offered at an attractive price considering the cars overall condition, California lineage and condition. As the old adage goes "You can restore a car over and over again, but it is only original once"! VALUES......AUCTIONS...... MISCELLANEOUS The prices of reasonably priced, unique collector cars seem to be steady despite the concerns about the economy. Frankly, we are fortunate that our business continues to be good and is based almost exclusively on the sale of nice, original, rust free California cars like this '61 Lincoln. If history repeats itself, cars like this Lincoln will continue to quite well at some of the well-known auctions throughout the remainder of 2013, and set an even higher watermark for the future sales of these cars in future years. While we enjoy attending some of the big auctions, frankly, we see some good reasons to consider purchasing a collector car in a less frantic, less emotional setting. While we can't offer the cocktails and gourmet food found at some auctions, we are able to offer what we believe are much more important benefits. Unlike the live auctions where a car is simply driven past the crowd, we are able to provide the prospective buyer with important history on a particular car. We are also able to outline, in great detail, the specifics of recent repairs/updates, the history of the vehicle and a host of other significant facts that cannot be provided during the frenzy of a live auction. At auction, restored examples have sold at prices approaching the $100,000 mark. Even at those prices, the new owners are benefiting from a value considering the cost of restoring classic Lincoln 4 door suicide convertibles. Many enthusiasts realize that the values of these cars continue to increase in value, but they are surprised at how much they appreciated during the past several years. In fact, the most recent issue of Cars of Particular Interest (CPI) reflects an increase since the last published book (a period of just one month) of 3%. On an annualized basis this represents a considerable increase in value. Since we do not incur the costs associated with organizing a huge auction in Arizona (not to mention incurring the cost of those cocktails and appetizers!) we are pleased to offer this Lincoln at a considerably lower price than we expect it would command at a large, live auction. A DRIVE IN THE LINCOLN This is a great car to drive. We have spent time driving the Lincoln and it has a history of being reliable and trouble free since it has been in our showroom. The Continental has been driven in the San Francisco Bay area, and it runs well under all weather and traffic conditions. The car runs cool, does not exhibit any problems, and the engine runs smoothly. The car is quiet and has the ride that you expect from a luxury Lincoln from the 1960's. The car starts immediately, when either hot or cold. We must admit that driving this car around town does require a certain amount of patience. Why? Well, everywhere you go, plan on spending time answering questions about the car, its history, and certainly the unique, striking color! Some of the "younger folks" have never seen a vintage Lincoln that has this unique 4-door convertible, suicide door design and are fascinated with the car. MISCELLANEOUS FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ) 1.Has it received a safety / light inspection? Yes, in accordance with California requirements, the car has been safety inspected by an independent professional organization. 2.What were the results of the independent inspection? The car was found to be very solid and had no issues with safety related items (brakes, electrical, steering, suspension, tires (Please see notes in the write-up), etc.). 3.What is the total mileage on the Lincoln? The mileage reads 88,975 and was reported by the original and second owner as being original and correct. While we are unable to trace the mileage back to day one, the overall condition of the Lincoln would certainly support this mileage reading. 4.Was the mechanical work completed professionally? Yes, all of the recent mechanical work was done professionally and is supported by receipts. 5.What are the car's needs (if any) at this time? Please refer to the section entitled "Opportunity Areas." The vehicle is in nice and runs and drives well. 6.Can we have the vehicle inspected? Yes, we encourage inspections by individuals and professional inspection organizations. All we ask is that you call us at  925-846-1451 to arrange a convenient time. We are unable to allow inspections 24 hours prior to the end of the auction as we are closed on Sunday. 7. Does the car have seat belts? Yes, although California law does not require functional seat belts if they were not required by law in the year of manufacture. 8.Can you provide some "ballpark" costs of shipping to say New York? Yes, on a fully insured, enclosed carrier and delivered to your door, about $1650.00 for most of the East Coast. The cost to LosAngeles would be in the area of $550.00. PLEASE check with us as these are just estimates, not firm shipping costs, and rates are changing regularly due to fuel costs and other factors. 9. What is the reserve? We will be glad to discuss the Lincoln with serious, qualified buyers (please call us at  925-846-1451), but will not respond to emails asking "What is the reserve." We can say that the reserve is very reasonable, especially considering the overall quality of this particular car. PURCHASING A COLLECTOR VEHICLE - THINGS TO CONSIDER As always, we recommend that you carefully review the seller's background of any collector car being sold over the Internet. We believe that it is important to ask yourself a number of questions including, but not limited to: -How long have they been in business? -How much experience do they have with collector cars? -How many positive collector car vehicle sales have completed (positive eBay feedback)? -How detailed/complete is the description of the vehicle? -Do the photos show details of the interior, exterior, top, chrome, etc. or are they simply "Glamour Shots" taken from a distance? -Does the seller have a surety bond to protect the financial transaction? -What about insurance, licensing by the state, and a local business license? -Does the seller (if a business) have any DMV (Motor Vehicle) complaints and/or other history of legal action, grievances? -Do they enjoy a favorable local and national/international reputation? -Can the seller assist with funding sources, transport and out of state/country sales? ABOUT CLASSIC CARS LTD. Classic Cars Ltd. has been in the same, small, California town for close to 15 years. We operate a small, indoor showroom, and specialize in the sale, consignment, and purchase of sports, high performance and specialty vehicles of all types. We have a particular interest in sports cars and unique vehicles. The majority of our vehicles come from local, private owners and collectors, and many were sold new in California. We appreciate that rust free cars, with excellent documentation and history are especially attractive to our buyers both locally, and around the country. As a result, we do not purchase our collectible cars from "distressed" sales, such as wholesale auctions, salvage sales, or lien sales. We do not sell vehicles with salvage titles, or those that have a history of significant accident damage or repair. We are fully insured, bonded, and licensed for collector car sales all over the United States/World. We have operated a "brick & mortar" business in the same small town for 20 years We are fully insured and licensed for collector car sales Classic Cars Ltd. carries a $50,000 Surety bond to cover financial transactions We have operated a "brick & mortar" business in the same small town for close to 15 years We enjoy excellent relationships with a number of transport companies and, as a result, can often times obtain preferred pricing for vehicle shipping. Please give us a call and we will be glad to refer you to suitable transport companies. Needless to say, we would recommend a quality, enclosed transporter that is experience with moving high quality, collectible cars. We frequently sell vehicles to out of state buyers / out of country buyers, and are proud of our 100% positive EBay feedback ratings on over 700 transactions. Please review our eBay feedback for specific comments on our service to our customers. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION We encourage telephone calls to discuss in greater details the condition/specifics of this lovely Lincoln. It is difficult to fully describe the condition of the Lincoln but we welcome "walk around" telephone discussions in order to answer any questions that you may have. We will be glad to discuss a sale of the car prior to the end of the listing on eBay, and ask that interested parties call us at  925-846-1451 for additional information/specifics. Please review our feedback on eBay (user name never22many) for our history of successful sales to out of state/country buyers. Our feedback consists of a total of over 700+ positive transactions on eBay. As with any collectible vehicle of this vintage we are unable to provide a warranty or guarantee of condition. Also, while information contained in this write-up is believed to be accurate, it cannot be guaranteed as much of it comes from third party sources. However, we make every effort to accurately represent our vehicles, and highlight both positive items as well as areas that require attention. We ask that prospective buyers consider our eBay history/feedback, standing in the community, length of time in business, and other factors when purchasing a collectible vehicle from Classic Cars Ltd. In addition to the purchase price, California buyers will be subject to sales tax, documentation fee, and DMV transfer fees. Out of state buyers will be responsible for the purchase price of the vehicle with any taxes/fess paid in their respective state Thank you, Classic Cars Ltd.  925-846-1451 MyStoreMaps improve local and international eBay sales. Specifications: Body Type / Style:Convertible Exterior Color:Gold Interior Color:Tan Engine:V8 Transmission:   N/A Mileage:88975 Drive:Rear Doors:4 Equipment: "Black Plate" California Car California Lic & Reg Convertible Top Dual Exhaust Exempt From Smog in California Factory AM/FM Pwr. Ant. Factory Air Conditioning Factory Gauges Factory Original Spare / Tools Factory Power Top   Factory Power Top No Rust CA. Body Power Locks Power Seats Power Steering Power Windows Seat Belts (Front) Suicide Door / Safety Locks Tinted Windows Wide Whitewall Tires Terms & Conditions Buyers outside of California will be responsible for a $195.00 fee for processing/administration. The charge will apply if the vehicle is purchased through ebay or before or after the auction, directly through Classic Cars Ltd. The vehicle is listed for sale elsewhere. We reserve the right to end the auction at anytime. We will be glad to discuss details of a "pre-auction" purchase  (925) 846 1451. Inspections of vehicles are encouraged but (by appointment only) must be completed within 24 hours of the end of the auction. Out of state buyers are responsible for the high bid and any shipping costs. California buyers are subject to the appropriate sales tax, DMV transfer, and fees associated with the purchase of any used vehicle sale in the state of California. We mail, via Priority Mail, transferable documents within 48 hours of the transfer of funds to out of State buyers. While shipping and transportation costs (if appropriate) are the responsibility of the winning bidder, we can assist with locating a suitable transporter. We regularly ship cars all over the USA/World, and can often times locate very competitive rates for transporting vehicles door to door, to a local terminal, enclosed, open, etc. Please call us for specific information/rates to your location. We meet some great people and fellow enthusiasts, and only rarely do we have problems with non-paying bidders. Please be certain that you are prepared to buy the car if you bid, or call us at  925-846-1451 before the end of the auction if we can answer any questions. If you have a "sunglass" rating or fewer than 10 feedback ratings on eBay, please call us before you bid so that we can discuss the bidding process, etc. If we do not hear from you, we reserve the right to delete your bid. Thank You & Happy Bidding Classic Cars Ltd.