Alan M

Reviewed a 1981 Lincoln Town Car on Jan 28, 2009

The 80s Lincolns really show that America used to know how to build cars. This car is a beautifully manufactured piece of machinery. In the 80s the Lincoln was right up there with Cadillac in design - luxurious, roomy, sleek, and well designed. It is one of the rare early 80s cars to have power doors/locks and power seats. It's also quite vintage complete with an 8-Track player. My personal car is a very rare 2 door Town Coupe - the doors honestly weigh about as much as a small Civic... I call it the pimp mobile, as it is has a fitting black pearl coat with hand painted red pin striping down the sides and hood. My car has a small 302 V8. It takes a bit to get it going due to its sheer weight, however, when you open it up, it goes and goes. Lincoln also made these cars with a 351 V8. As my car has the smaller cc the gas mileage isn't as horrible as one might think. I average between 18-20 nearing 22 on the highway. One thing you need to remember is that you have to make an appointment to stop this thing. Stopping fast in a Lincoln is really an oxymoron... On back roads and around town, you're really driving this to get looks, where it is really amazing is on long trips. You could be topping 80mph, and thinking you're only going 65. It's such a smooth ride - really feels like you've put a steering wheel on your king size bed. I usually throw on a fedora and a suit when bringing this car to a show to really play the part... Older cars are easy and cheap to maintain. The entire computer in this thing is about the size of box of chocolates. The engine compartment is HUGE and can, if necessary, be lived in. All parts of the engine are extremely accessible and can be replaced/cleaned easily and quickly. If you are looking for a good cheap classic to get, any early 80s cars should do the trick. They're not as expensive to maintain or simply buy like a 60s or 70s muscle car, but still fun to own. This Town Coupe has really worked out for me.