The 1998 Lincoln Continental has distinct new styling and functional changes that result in a more comfortable ride and better maneuverability. The new Continental - which has more than 400 improvements over the 1997 model appeals to buyers who want comfort in a front-wheel-drive luxury sedan without compromising style or handling. The optional Driver Select System with semi-active suspension and adjustable ride is expected to satisfy buyers who want a controlled, comfortable ride and more responsive handling. More traditional drivers can choose Continental's standard steering and suspension.
ACCENT ON DESIGN - Buy The Continental Here
Continental is the same size but its proportions are changed. Shorter at the front center line by 2 inches and at the corners by 4 inches, its front end has a more modern, sweptback look. New wraparound headlamps with cornering lamps and turn signals are covered in a single clear lens to enhance styling and provide a perfect fit. The new bright chrome grille is accented by a chrome treatment at the corner of the bumper. The bumper features a new shape, but it is the same bumper system that was judged best performer among six 1997 luxury cars in an independent bumper crash test. The new composite hood and fenders are bolder. The cowl-forward style of the windshield yields a sleeker and more aerodynamic look on the outside and a feeling of airiness on the inside. The rear of the car is 2 inches longer to improve its overall design balance and to improve the trunk layout. Larger, more distinctive corner taillamps are mounted higher for better visibility and to add prominence to the rear of the car. Decklid and quarter panels are longer to visually balance Continental's front. The chrome license plate surround adds an updated Euro look. Exterior trim includes additional chrome accents and new bodyside moldings. Customers will have the choice of two new wheels - polished aluminum or chrome (delayed availability).
ON THE INSIDE - Buy The Continental Here
Continental's redesigned interior is more spacious and accentuates comfort, luxury and craftsmanship with a new flow-through instrument panel that has been placed forward in the car. The design of the instrument panel also has a more pleasing appearance. The instrument panel is covered with a textured suede for a softer surface, better grain definition and improved durability. Authentic bird's-eye maple wood trim runs across the width of the instrument panel and into the doors. A new color stain and grain process allows the natural variations of the wood to show more prominently for a warmer, more luxurious appearance. The curved profile and hidden edges of the wood panels result in a finished and finely crafted look. New air registers provide improved airflow. An analog clock offers a look of elegance and improved readability based on the position of the clock's hands. A new radio features speed-sensitive volume control and broadcast data reception. A portable, voice-activated cellular phone and universal garage door opener are optional. A new console includes dual cup holders. Front seats offer two-way driver and passenger seat lumbar control for greater support and comfort. Seat and mirror positions can be stored for two drivers, or buyers can choose the optional 11-feature Memory Profile System available only with the Driver Select System. Rear-seat passengers can use dual cup holders in a new folding center armrest. Rear ventilation ducts provide additional cooling or heating comfort. New interior features enhance convenience. A duplicate electronic transmission shift readout in the instrument cluster eliminates the need to glance down to the floor shift lever display. The traction control off switch has been integrated into the message center, and the rear defrost switch relocated to the climate controls, reducing the number of knobs and switches.
RIDE AND HANDLING - Buy The Continental Here
Standard speed-sensitive rack-and-pinion steering can be adjusted for low-, normal- or high-effort steering. Continental offers all-weather handling with front-wheel drive, standard all-speed traction control, and the flexibility of two suspension and steering packages. Standard new anti-lock brakes are quieter during braking and traction control activation. Traction control has fewer components and reduced complexity for improved durability. Larger mufflers result in a quieter ride. Twin-tube, gas-pressurized, passive shock absorbers in the front and rear deliver traditional ride control. Lower spring rates provide a softer ride. The optional Driver Select System personalizes the ride and is expected to appeal to Continental buyers who seek more customized control and driving excitement. It also includes:
POWERTRAIN - Buy The Continental Here
The Continental InTech™ 4.6-liter, 32-valve DOHC V-8 is more efficient thanks to improved microprocessor electronics that operate 33 percent faster. A revised camshaft delivers improved performance with more torque for additional passing ability. Coil-onplug ignition improves plug firing and deletes ignition wires for reduced maintenance and improved durability. Speed control is interactive with the driver's message center. The Continental transmission has been revised for greater shift smoothness and improved durability. The returnless fuel emissions system, which helps keep fuel-tank vapors to a minimum by reducing fuel-tank agitation from unused fuel returning into the tank, is quieter and more efficient and reduces electrical load based on less frequent operation.
SAFETY AND SECURITY - Buy The Continental Here
Continental offers standard dual second generation depowered air bags, four-wheel antilock brakes, all-speed traction control, lights that are activated when wipers are turned on for improved visibility during inclement weather, automatic dimming rearview mirrors with compass, mirrors that tilt down when the car is in reverse, a battery-saver feature, side impact protection beams and a "homesafe" transaxle, which allows vehicle travel in second gear (only) in the event that the powertrain control module fails. Available safety and security features include RESCU™, the emergency phone system; SecuriTire™ zero-pressure tires; and SecuriLock™ passive anti-theft system. For 1998, RESCU™ is activated automatically when air bags are deployed.
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