Lincoln has long been a symbol of American luxury. As Ford’s premium division, it builds cars for those who want a smooth ride, elegant styling, and top-quality craftsmanship. Since its founding in 1917, the brand has grown from a small luxury marque into a well-known name. Over the years, its models helped shape automotive design. While the company only builds SUVs today, it once produced some of the most memorable coupes and sedans in history.

After World War II, the automaker helped redefine American luxury. It introduced sleek, powerful cars that reflected postwar optimism and new engineering advances. From stately sedans to presidential limousines, these ten iconic models played a big role in the brand’s success.

1949 Lincoln Cosmopolitan

The company launched the Cosmopolitan as its first all-new model after the war. It had a streamlined design, a strong 337-cubic-inch flathead V8, and an optional Hydra-Matic automatic transmission from General Motors. The Cosmopolitan also became famous as President Harry Truman’s official state car, proving its appeal to dignitaries.

1956 Continental Mark II

One of the most exclusive cars of its time, the Continental Mark II was hand-built with extreme attention to detail. It featured a long hood, a clean design, and a luxurious interior. A 368-cubic-inch V8 with 285 horsepower powered the Mark II. With a price similar to a new Rolls-Royce, this car made a bold statement of sophistication.

1961 Continental

The 1961 Continental set a new standard for American luxury. Its clean, boxy design stood out from the flashy tailfins of the 1950s. The brand introduced rear-hinged “suicide doors,” which made it easier to enter the back seat. A strong 430-cubic-inch V8 powered the ’61 Continental, which soon became the vehicle of choice for U.S. presidents, including John F. Kennedy.

1970 Continental Mark III

Designed to compete with the Cadillac Eldorado, the Mark III mixed classic styling with modern luxury. It featured a Rolls-Royce-inspired grille and hidden headlights. A powerful 460-cubic-inch V8 provided plenty of performance, while plush interiors and a vinyl-covered roof made it a true grand tourer.

1984 Lincoln Town Car

By the 1980s, the Town Car had become the symbol of traditional American luxury. Its body-on-frame construction, rear-wheel drive, and 302-cubic-inch V8 made it both strong and smooth to drive. The model also introduced digital dashboards and keyless entry, proving that innovation could coexist with classic appeal.

1989 Continental

The brand redesigned the Continental in 1989, switching to front-wheel drive and a lighter unibody structure. A 3.8-liter V6 powered the car, balancing power with fuel efficiency. A new suspension system, featuring adaptive air springs, gave it a soft, floating ride, reinforcing the focus on comfort.

1998 Navigator

Entering the full-size luxury SUV market, the Navigator started a trend still going strong today. Built on the Ford Expedition platform, it had a 5.4-liter V8, upscale interiors, and the latest technology for its time. This model changed what people expected from luxury vehicles and helped the brand gain new customers in the growing SUV market.

2003 Lincoln Aviator

The Aviator arrived in 2003 as a smaller, more affordable alternative to the Navigator. Based on the Ford Explorer, it offered premium styling, a refined interior, and a 4.6-liter V8 with strong performance. Although the first-generation Aviator had a short run, the nameplate returned in 2020 as an all-new, high-tech luxury SUV.

2017 Continental

Reviving a legendary name, the 2017 Continental offered a fresh take on luxury. A twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 with up to 400 horsepower powered the car. Key features included a sleek, simple design, soft-close doors, and an ultra-comfortable interior with 30-way adjustable seats. While it marked the end of the brand’s sedans, the 2017 Continental blended tradition with modern innovation.

2018 Navigator

Redesigned for 2018, the Navigator became a true flagship SUV. A twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 with 450 horsepower replaced the old V8, providing more power and efficiency. With a lavish interior, advanced technology, and best-in-class towing, the model proved the brand could lead in the luxury SUV world. It remains one of the most praised full-size luxury SUVs today.

From presidential limousines to luxury SUVs, these cars made a lasting impact on automotive history. With groundbreaking design, advanced technology, and effortless comfort, these Lincoln models show why the brand remains a strong name in luxury.