Lincoln had high expectations when it launched the Continental Mark III in mid-year 1968. Cadillac had dominated the personal luxury market for years, and Lincoln figured only a spiritual successor to the world-class 1956-57 Continental Mark II would be able to restore the marque to its former glory. Despite the name, the smaller, sleeker Mark III shared almost no parts with the standard Continental coupe and sedan. The body was completely unique, mounted to a modified Thunderbird perimeter frame. Power was from a brand-new 460-cubic-inch V-8 good for 365hp and 500lb-ft of torque to hustle the nearly 5000-pound Mark III with authority. But opulence and exclusivity were its real advantages.

Features like leather-clad “lounge” seats, an industry-first “Sure-Track” electronic anti-lock braking system, and a 36-inch-wide power sunroof introduced in 1971 set the Mark III apart. Classic styling standouts included full-length fender-top blades, the “Continental” spare tire hump and a throwback faux radiator grille cast in zinc, then plated in layers of copper and nickel, before being chromed for a flawless shine.

The Mark III remained in production through 1971, and 1970 was the first year for concealed windshield wipers. It is this model year that Automodello™ has chosen to render as a premium 1:43 curbside resin-cast model. The standard model is 143 pieces while the Tribute Edition is 71 pieces. And the Homage Edition in Black is limited to just 24 units. All are hand-numbered and officially licensed by Ford Motor Company.