The 1956 model year was a blessing for Lincoln with strong sales and industry acclaim. For 1957, Lincoln wanted to maintain strong sales but believed it had to compete with the all new Forward Look from Chrysler. Thus, the 1957 Lincoln line sported a Cantilevered Tail fin. The tail fin became the most desired design element of the late 1950's. For Lincoln, 1957 models were the only year a true fin was to be offered. A little know fact is Lincoln actually wanted the fin over 2 inches higher. The designers, however, would not allow it.
With original low production numbers and today's survival rate of these vehicles, the 1957 Lincoln Premiere Convertible should grow in value in the future. Very few correctly restored examples exist today.
This 1957 convertible was treated to a full Body Off Frame restoration starting in January of 1993. The restoration included every mechanical and electrical system of the automobile. Hundreds of New Old Stock parts were used in the restoration, and when completed, the car was virtually new. Restoration expense in the mid-1990's exceed $150,000. and could not be duplicated for that amount today.
The convertible is finished in the correct Bermuda Coral Enamel paint with a 3 tone custom leather interior. Once completed, the car went on to be a show vehicle and winner of many First Place and Best of Show awards. In 1996, the car had been invited and attended the Lincoln Exposition at the famed Pebble Beach Concours Weekend. The car also appeared in "Great American Convertibles" by Publications International, Ltd.
Awards of merit include numerous Concours de' Elegance events and many local shows in California. The car also received the Ford Motor Company Trophy at its' first showing for the Lincoln Continental Owners Club Western Nationals at San Diego in 1995; scoring an almost perfect 100 points the first time shown.
After the 1996 Pebble Beach Weekend, this Premiere was retired from show and remains in storage with other collectible cars in the California central valley. It attends local concours and shows and is maintained to show quality. After the many years following restoration, the car still shows as new, and sports a mere 1300 miles since restoration.
This 1957 Premiere is equipped with:
- Power Steering
- Power Brakes
- Power Windows
- Turbo Drive Automatic Transmission
- Six Way Power Seat
- Dual Control Heater
Optional Accessory Items:
- Padded Sun Visors
- Headlight Dimmer
- Locking Gas Cap
- Remote (manual) Side Mirror
- Compass - N.O.S.
- Traffic Light Viewer
- Front Floor Mats
- Rear Floor Mats
- Travel-Tuner Radio ( Town & Country)
No expense had been spared during the restoration of this convertible. The car is totally free of any pitting in any chromed portion of the vehicle. Many important pieces of the Lincoln are cast in Pot-metal and extremely difficult for re-chrome. Thus, many of these parts were New Old Stock items and then re-stored for show - an extremely laborious and expensive undertaking.
The 1957 Lincoln convertible has rapidly advanced in the collectible automotive market and should exceed all expectations for future growth. Very few of these fine automobiles remain today in any condition. Restored convertible models are now achieving record prices in the collector car markets.
