The Presidential Car

Beyond its presidential name, Lincoln automobiles lived the tradition of quality and reliability founded by Henry M. Leland when he manufactured the first units back in 1917. This heritage was carried on by Ford Motor Company when it acquired Lincoln in 1922. Lincoln shares the same prestige in the luxury car category with the equally famous Cadillac, also a creation of Leland.

The automobile is named in honor of Abraham Lincoln, the first United States President that Leland voted when he reached the voting age. Since then, Lincoln traveled through history providing limousines used by US Presidents. The "Sunshine Special" was the first car specially built for the use of a US President. This V12 convertible served Pres. Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1939. In 1950, a Lincoln Cosmopolitan nicknamed "Bubble Top" toured Presidents Truman, Eisenhower and Kennedy. Pres. Johnson used it once before it was decommissioned in 1965.

The 1961 Lincoln convertible used by Pres. Kennedy was in service until 1977. It was altered to become an armor-plated sedan after his assassination. Pres. Nixon used a 1969-model Lincoln, and Presidents Ford, Carter, Reagan and Bush used a 1972-model Lincoln. The last presidential Lincoln was built in 1989 and used until 2004.

Today, Lincoln is competing in the entry level, initial quality premium automobile category with its MKZ sport sedan, MKS luxury sedan and MKX crossover sport utility vehicle. J.D. Power and Associates gave the "Highest Initial Quality Awards of 2007" to Lincoln MKZ, a midsized premium multi-activity vehicle (MAV), and to Lincoln Mark LT, a large premium MAV.

The Secret Service has identified engine power as essential factor in counter-terrorist driving maneuvers. That is why this presidential car is equipped with a 3.5-liter Duratec DOHC V6 Engine mounted over a highly versatile six-speed automatic transmission. This V6 is made of light die-cast aluminum block with four valves working in each cylinder. Two hundred sixty three (263) horsepower and 249 lb-ft. of torque of power is delivered smoothly, giving you a confident and comfortable ride. MKZ is available in front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive variants.

The interiors of the MKZ offer a VIP ambience. It provides updated news and prime entertainment with 130 channels available on its SIRIUS Satellite Radio. Sports, traffic and weather updates, as well as your favorite music genre, are fully enjoyed in commercial-free channels. Winter or summer, the MKZ's perforated leather-trimmed seats provide the best comfort. There is a setting for cool air to flow in the seats during summer and heating elements at the base to keep you warm in the coldness of winter. The seats are also power adjustable to make tall and small passengers adjust it almost effortlessly.

Busy persons can enjoy sleeping on the road with MKZ's noise absorption features. VIPs can finish their pre-meeting agenda before reaching their destination, minus the noise of traffic outside.

Lincoln models available for the 2008 model year include the MKX, MKZ, Navigator, Mark LT and the Town Car. These proud models deserve the best badge - the stylish and high quality Lincoln keychains. The teardrop and valet metal keychain designs are engraved with the Lincoln's logo, a rectangular shape centered with a thin cross. There is also a miniature steering-wheel keychain design.

The Chrome and leather-based designs have a shiny black dome topped by the Lincoln logo and the text "Lincoln". No matter how old your presidential car maybe, those keys deserved the best dressing before you donate it in a museum of your choice. Also, dress up your 2008 models with the same badge of Leland's tradition of quality.