I fell in love with the Continental Mark IV back in the 1970s when I started watching the TV show “Frank Cannon” with William Conrad. Although the show was dubbed in German for the Danish audience, I still admired the rare beauty of the Continental Mark IV. In Denmark, these cars were not common, but a few individuals managed to import them. I remember seeing a silver 1973 model, a wine red 1974 model driven by the secretary at the US Embassy, and a 1975/76 model imported by a local business owner. Ford Gran Torinos, Ford Rancheros, Ford Mustangs, and a few Ford Thunderbirds were more easily found in Copenhagen, thanks to FoMoCo. However, I finally got the chance to own a 1975 Continental Mark IV in 2002.
My dream car was found on Autotrader Online in Florida, owned by a sweet elderly couple who had cherished it since 1977. After speaking with the previous owner, I felt an instant connection and knew that the car was in good hands. The couple had moved from Pennsylvania to Florida, and the car was shipped from Jacksonville to Bremerhaven by roll-on roll-off ferry. From there, it was driven home.
Since purchasing the car, I have maintained and improved it over the years. The C6 transmission was renovated two years ago, and this year, I installed a new carburetor. One of my main concerns has been reinforcing the armrests on the doors, as the plastic tends to become fragile with age. However, the cabin remains in pristine condition, thanks to the previous owner’s care. They used mink oil to keep the leather soft, and I continue to use the same cream we use for our leather furniture at home.
Three blocks away from my house, there is a couple who also own a 1971 Continental Mark III in the same color as mine. However, they do not drive it as often as I do. It’s always a pleasing sight to see a fellow enthusiast in the neighborhood.
FAQs
Q: Where can I find more information about the Continental Mark IV?
A: You can check out videos and uploads about Continental Mark IV on Car news.
Q: Are the plastic armrests in the Continental Mark IV prone to damage?
A: Yes, over time, the plastic armrests on the doors may become fragile. It is recommended to reinforce them to avoid any issues.
Q: What maintenance should I perform on a classic car like the Continental Mark IV?
A: Regular maintenance, such as engine checks, oil changes, and fluid top-ups, should be performed to keep the car in good condition. Additionally, it is important to store the car correctly to prevent any damage from moisture or extreme temperatures.
Conclusion
Owning a classic car like the Continental Mark IV is a dream come true for many car enthusiasts. The charm, elegance, and nostalgia these cars evoke are truly unmatched. With proper care and maintenance, these cars can be enjoyed for many years to come. So, if you ever get the chance to own one, don’t hesitate to seize the opportunity and become part of a unique automotive legacy.
*[CC]: Curbside Classic