SUMMARY
- Lincoln is Ford Motor Company's luxury brand, purchased by Henry Ford in 1922. Edsel Ford transformed it into an American icon of elegance.
- Lincoln created automotive legends like the Continental and Navigator, pioneering features from coach doors to hands-free driving technology throughout its century-long history.
- Today, Lincoln focuses on electric vehicles and global expansion. Parks Lincoln of Longwood connects Central Florida drivers to this prestigious heritage and innovative future.
Also Read: Lincoln Automotive Financial Services: Your Guide to Easy Financing
When you spot a sleek Lincoln gliding past, you're probably curious about who makes Lincoln cars and the story behind that distinctive badge. Lincoln is Ford Motor Company's luxury vehicle brand, and their partnership has deep roots in American automotive history. On February 4, 1922, Henry Ford purchased Lincoln from its founder, Henry Leland. His wife Clara and son Edsel encouraged the decision, which
proved transformative for both companies. This acquisition laid the foundation for a luxury brand committed to exceptional craftsmanship and outstanding customer service.
Today, Lincoln continues that legacy, and if you're in Central Florida, Parks Lincoln of Longwood offers the full experience of this storied American brand. Whether you're drawn to Lincoln's elegant design or interested in learning more about Lincoln history, understanding this Ford Motors connection helps explain why these vehicles have remained symbols of American luxury for over a century.
The Ford Family's Luxury Vision
Understanding who makes Lincoln cars means appreciating Edsel Ford's distinct vision for luxury. While Henry Ford revolutionized affordable transportation, his son Edsel had a different dream: creating the finest automobile in the world. After the Lincoln acquisition, Edsel became president and held that position until 1943. He transformed the brand by making design and style as important as performance. Edsel saw cars as rolling works of art that delivered both precision engineering and breathtaking beauty.
This philosophy shaped Lincoln history in remarkable ways. In 1924, the Lincoln Model L debuted, merging Ford's efficient production methods with Edsel's uncompromising standards. President Calvin Coolidge selected the Model L as his official vehicle that same year, launching a prestigious tradition. From 1939 through 1972, Lincoln served as the exclusive manufacturer of presidential limousines. The robust engineering that Ford Motors brought to the partnership gave these vehicles the reliability and presence that made them perfect symbols of American excellence.
Designing American Automotive Icons
Lincoln history reveals a brand that consistently pushed boundaries and redefined luxury. In 1936, Lincoln introduced the Zephyr, a groundbreaking mid-priced model with sleek, streamlined styling and a distinctive hood design. Just three years later, the 1939 Continental arrived and changed everything. Originally designed as a personal luxury vehicle, it became an instant classic and essentially created an entirely new automotive category in America. Legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright was so captivated by the Continental's beauty that he called it the most beautiful car in the world and purchased two for himself.
The Continental's impact extended beyond the automotive world. In 1951, the Museum of Modern Art in New York City selected it as one of only eight automobiles worthy of display as fine art. The momentum continued when William Clay Ford took charge of special product operations in 1952. He assembled a talented team of engineers and designers to create the Continental Mark II, which arrived in showrooms in 1955. Enthusiasts still regard it as one of the greatest automobiles ever built, cementing the brand's reputation for unmatched elegance.
A Century of Innovation and Comfort
The collaboration between Lincoln and Ford Motors has produced countless industry firsts that changed how we experience luxury vehicles. In 1961, Lincoln introduced its signature coach doors on the Continental, a distinctive feature that remains iconic today. The brand continued innovating throughout the following decades with visor-mounted garage door openers in 1977, followed by electric speedometers and fuel gauges in 1980. That same year, Lincoln pioneered keyless entry systems, making life easier for drivers everywhere.
Front-wheel drive debuted in 1987, and memory recall for seat and mirror positions arrived in 1994, allowing the vehicle to remember your preferences through a remote transmitter. In 2010, Lincoln launched the MKZ Hybrid, its first hybrid electric vehicle. Each innovation reflected the same goal: creating an effortless, personalized driving experience.
Redefining Luxury with the Navigator
Lincoln transformed the automotive landscape again in 1997 by introducing the 1998 Navigator. This full-size luxury SUV quickly dominated its segment and redefined what families could expect from a premium vehicle. The Navigator's success continued evolving, culminating in a stunning 2017 concept featuring 30-Way Perfect Position Seats. When the fourth-generation Navigator launched in 2018 with these remarkable seats, it sparked a brand resurgence by blending cutting-edge technology with sophisticated luxury.
Today's Lincoln lineup includes the Navigator, Aviator, Nautilus, and Corsair, each designed as a personal sanctuary. Modern features like ActiveGlide hands-free driver assist technology represent the latest chapter in who makes Lincoln cars and why they stand apart. The brand also offers thoughtful services including standard Pickup and Delivery for maintenance and a Mobile Vehicle Spa pilot program in select areas.
Lincoln's Global Reach and Electric Vision
Today, the answer to who makes Lincoln cars extends across continents. The brand has achieved remarkable success in China, where models like the Corsair are produced locally. In 2021, Lincoln introduced the Zephyr sedan specifically for Chinese buyers, targeting a younger, tech-savvy generation. The brand supports this global expansion through Lincoln Way 2.0, a digital platform featuring One ID that gives customers seamless access to all digital services. China even has a dedicated Lincoln Experience Center offering immersive digital journeys for visitors.
Every Detail Tells a Story
Understanding who makes Lincoln cars means appreciating the artistry in every element. The signature chimes were recorded by the Detroit Symphony Orchestra. The elegant coach doors open with theatrical grace. Each detail serves a purpose: creating your personal sanctuary on wheels. Parks Lincoln of Longwood brings this heritage to life in Central Florida, where you can experience how a century of innovation translates into today's exceptional vehicles. Dealers nationwide are celebrating this centennial milestone with community events that honor the brand's journey.
Think of it this way: Ford Motors is like a master builder who constructs dependable homes for everyone, but then creates a special division devoted entirely to crafting extraordinary custom estates. The foundation and expertise come from the same trusted source, but the luxury division focuses exclusively on exquisite details and the elevated experience of those inside.
Final Thoughts
Lincoln's story captures the essence of American automotive achievement. From Edsel Ford's artistic vision to modern electric innovations, the brand has consistently proven that true luxury goes beyond premium materials. It's about respecting your time, anticipating your needs, and transforming every journey into something memorable. As Lincoln enters its second century, the partnership with Ford Motors continues to deliver vehicles that honor tradition while embracing tomorrow's possibilities.
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