Overview & Reviews

The Lincoln Town Car was one of the most established automotive nameplates in America. Since it debuted as a trim level for the 1969-'71 Continental, the Town Car's purpose remained the same: to spoil as many as six occupants with spacious and luxurious accommodations no matter where in the car they were sitting. For years it was the epitome of what Americans expected from a luxury car.

As time passed by, those expectations began to change, and the Town Car did not evolve to meet them. Not only did Lincoln maintain the Town Car's palatial dimensions, massive trunk and soft ride, it also maintained the basic platform that had underpinned the car since the late 1970s. Its solid rear axle suspension and V8 engine, in particular, were relics of another time. Many of the latest safety, convenience and entertainment features were also not available.

Some will certainly view a used Town Car as a comfortable choice for luxury transportation. But for the most part, we think most shoppers will do better choosing another large luxury sedan that's more capable and advanced.

Most Recent Lincoln Town Car
The most recent Lincoln Town Car was produced from 2003-'11. Compared to the model that immediately preceded it, this final Town Car featured a strengthened frame, updated mechanicals, minor styling changes and a revised interior. But it still was heavily based on the previous car, with a body-on-frame chassis, rear-wheel drive and a solid rear axle.

Equipped with wide front and rear bench seats, the Lincoln Town Car was one of the few six-passenger cars around. Both standard- and long-wheelbase models were offered, each powered by a 4.6-liter V8 engine that produced 239 horsepower and 287 pound-feet of torque. Not only was acceleration pokey, but fuel economy was poor as well. Not helping matters was an old four-speed automatic that lacked the choice of gear ratios and fuel economy of the five- and six-speed automatics found on competitive sedans.

Changes during its lengthy model run were largely restricted to a reshuffling and renaming of trim names in its first few years. For instance, the top-of-the-line model was first named Cartier, then Ultimate and finally Signature Limited. From 2006 through 2011, however, the Town Car could primarily be had in standard-wheelbase Signature Limited and long-wheelbase Signature L trim levels. Feature highlights included dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, power-adjustable pedals, a premium sound system, a power-operated trunk and driver memory settings. The Town Car Signature L was essentially a limousine. Six inches longer than the standard car, the L featured a much roomier rear bench seat with separate audio and climate controls.

In editorial reviews, we appreciated the Town Car's abundant storage areas, soft ride quality, interior spaciousness and ability to swallow four sets of golf clubs in the huge trunk. And compared to the previous generation, it did benefit from a stronger frame, sharpened steering and upgraded brakes. But compared to other large luxury sedans of the time, the Town Car was let down by a weak engine, soggy handling, a dated interior design and a lack of modern features.

Previous Lincoln Town Car Models
The Lincoln Town Car produced from 1998-2002 lacked the more recent model's updates, but still offered the same roomy interior. It was offered in Executive, Signature and Cartier editions, and beginning in 2002, the latter two trim levels were available in long-wheelbase form. Between 1998 and 2000, the Town Car was powered by a 4.6-liter V8 that produced 205 hp. In 2001, hp was bumped up to 220 for Executive and Signature editions, while Cartier versions produced 235 hp.

Between 1990 and 1997, the Town Car was boxy, slab-sided and formal. However, its radiused edges, flush-mounted windows and lighting elements made it appear infinitely more modern and aerodynamic than the carriage-like pre-1990 models. In 1991, an overhead-cam 4.6-liter V8 was installed that, with 190 hp, was significantly more powerful than the 5.0-liter V8 in previous Town Cars. In 1994, hp rose once again to 210. Other notable developments for mid-1990s Town Car models included an optional Handling Package with firmer suspension and matched tires introduced for 1993, and a subtle but tasteful interior and exterior restyle for 1995.

Most editorial reviewers of the time noted the Town Car's strength as a serene reading room on wheels while lamenting its ponderous driving dynamics. However, there was universal acknowledgement that the Lincoln Town Car never has been for spirited drivers, but rather for those who grew up believing that big, comfortable, rear-wheel-drive American luxury cars were the ultimate reward for a job well done. And for them, this Town Car was a perfect fit.

User Reviews:

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  A great ride at a great price! - 2005 Lincoln Town Car
  By dennis - April 5 - 6:20 am

  I now have about 12,000 miles on my Lincoln. Traded in my E320 Benz to get it. Lincoln is superior in all respects. More comfortable, better price, better handling, no electrical problems (lots in Mercedes), burns regular fuel, two windshield wipers (one on the Benx) and so forth. Lower resale value, that is true. But who would want to sell it? This is the best car Ive ever owned and I got it for a steal (internet deal). Why was I driving that stupid status symbol that kills my rear after a few hours? Wish I had bought this car years ago. The car is great--the problem is that Ford is too stupid to know how to market it.

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  Great Highway Car ... - 2004 Lincoln Town Car
  By Fred McClaren - April 1 - 10:00 am

  Really pleased with the 2003 Town Car ... the only thing that would make me give it up is if they introduce a V10.

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  Outstanding All Around - 2006 Lincoln Town Car
  By Mit - March 22 - 1:13 am

  This is a great vehicle. Horsepower is there when you need it. Interior is very quiet and comfortable. No complaints!

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  1999 Lincoln Town Car - 1999 Lincoln Town Car
  By James Erickson - March 19 - 2:00 am

  I purchased this car in 1999, the 6th Lincoln town car I have owened and have loved them all. All have performed great with low upkeep and good gas milage. The ride is excellent and driving it is a dream.

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  lincoln ultimate - 2005 Lincoln Town Car
  By thomas j. myers - March 3 - 10:00 am

  it was a step up in looking at the ford crown victoria and mercury marquis.. lincoln town car is a delight to drive. quiet, handling reasonable, has class look. fit and finish excellent. the list of standards is impressive. could not ask for more.

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  Salesmans Car - 2003 Lincoln Town Car
  By John C - March 2 - 3:33 am

  Ive driven this car 67,000mi in the past 18 months. As a salesman with high mileage, I luxuriate in its overall comfort. The huge trunk has an insert to keep loose articles secured below the false floor. This coupled with the limited use spare provides the most usable space in any trunk on the market. The plush leather seats are very comfy & real wood trim is classy. The navigation system is easy to use and very helpful. The backup assist, makes parking this large car a breeze. I average 24 mpg on regular gas. The brakes have been the only problem area. In the first 40,000 miles, I replaced all 4 brake pads & rotors. Beauty, comfort, low insurance & gas economy - Expensive but worth it!

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  What it is worth TC - 1998 Lincoln Town Car
  By Steve Meikle - February 28 - 2:00 am

  This has been one of the most pleasant experiences I have had owning this truly fine car. Besides luxury and comfort is has economy not found elswhere, at least by me. Have taken trips that averaged 500 miles or more and recorded measured miles per gallon of 27.8.... A joy to drive, and safety all around, I will own another... smm

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  Great Lincoln Exec - 1994 Lincoln Town Car
  By MERT - February 27 - 5:33 pm

  Great car! If the new ones get any smaller it will be the last Lincoln that I will buy.

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  Perfect car. - 2000 Lincoln Town Car
  By edwin301 - February 17 - 10:00 am

  This Town Car has been perfect. No problems at all. Everything works perfectly. Very quiet, great A/C, big trunk, and good gas mileage for such a big car.

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  Fantastic Vehicle! - 2004 Lincoln Town Car
  By willie - February 16 - 12:40 pm

  This car is like sitting in your living room. Rides beautiful. I bought it because its a fact that these cars will last well over 350,000 miles. Not bad gas consumption either for an eight cylinder. If I had the money I would by my in-laws a brand new one. Last years of life should be special for them.