Ford, with its huge Lincoln Continental Mk V, held onto the American dream of a giant personal coupe powered by a large capacity V8 engine longer than anyone in the industry during the fuel crisis in the late 1970s.

Replacing the more rounded Mk 4, the angular Continental Mk V Coupe was sold between the 1977 and 1979 model years and achieved notoriety in Europe when Germany's 'Auto Motor und Sport' rated it as the least fuel efficient car they had ever tested, with an average consumption of around 40 litres/100km.

In fairness, Ford had made an effort to rescue consumption, downsizing the Mk V's standard engine from the Mk IV's 460-cid (7.5 litre) V8 to the still large 400-cid (6.6 litre) Big-block, with the larger power unit now available as an option.

As befits an automotive fashion statement, Lincoln Mk Vs were available as Designer Editions, with models named after influential designers of the day, such as Bill Blass, Cartier, Givenchy, and Pucci, each featuring a unique option package and exterior and interior colours.

This very desirable two-owner 'triple black' Lincoln Mark V presents beautifully and according to Shannons Sydney staff, is one of the best that they have seen. It is fitted with a host of period factory features including leather upholstered power seats, power steering with tilt steering wheel, cruise control, power windows, central locking, air conditioning and remote trunk release. A glass moon roof is fitted and the original chrome and brightwork are in excellent condition.

Complete with hide-away headlights, and just 63,174 miles this fully-loaded and stunning original car powered by that wonderful 460 ci V8 will delight the Lincoln enthusiast.

This vehicle was imported in 2005 by the present owner and has been registered in the ACT for the past 3 years. It will be sold unregistered in NSW with a Blue Slip to be supplied. Also included in the sale are the Owners Manual, the original build sheet and an Engineer`s Report where additional child restraint anchorage points were fitted to the rear parcel shelf.

This vehicle is now available for inspection at 65 Reserve Road, St Leonards, NSW. Mon-Fri 9am-5pm, Sat 9am-4pm. To arrange a viewing call the New South Wales Auction Team: Ian Clayton on 13 46 46 (ext 4).