November 30, 2023
Posted By : Barrett-Jackson
Written By : Written by independent automotive journalist David Neyens

CLASSIC CASHMERE: This Custom Continental Mark II Captures the Model’s Grandeur and Adds More

CLASSIC CASHMERE: This Custom Continental Mark II Captures the Model’s Grandeur and Adds More

November 30, 2023
Posted by Barrett-Jackson

Written by Written by independent automotive journalist David Neyens

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LOT #1357 – 1957 CONTINENTAL MARK II CUSTOM COUPE “CASHMERE” – NO RESERVE

271446_EngineIn all respects, the elite Continental Mark II of 1956-57 was a radical departure for Ford Motor Company – so much so that the car was not even badged as a Lincoln. Instead, it was the launch product of the newly formed Continental Division of the Ford Motor Company, with exclusive assembly facilities on Detroit’s Oakwood Boulevard. Development was spearheaded by William Clay Ford in tribute to his late father Edsel B. Ford, who conceived the original Continental with “Bob” Gregorie in the late 1930s. Key staff on the Continental Mark II program included chief stylist John Reinhart, chief body engineer Gordon Buehrig of Duesenberg and Auburn renown, and chief engineer Harley Copp.

With excellent lines, the Continental Mark II possessed an understated beauty emphasizing purity of design and elegance, rather than flamboyance. Main design cues included proportions similar to those of the Thunderbird, as well as an homage to the original Continentals of the 1940s, a molded trunk lid in the shape of a concealed spare tire. Under the four-pointed star on the hood, which would later become the Lincoln emblem, rested a dynamometer-tested 368ci V8 engine developing nearly 300 horsepower. Largely hand-built with only the finest materials throughout, the Mark II was a direct competitor to Rolls-Royce and Bentley and initially priced at nearly $11,000, yet Ford reportedly lost an estimated $1,000 (likely understated) on every example built.

Conceived at the height of automotive fashion, the debut of the Mark II at the 1955 Paris Motor Show was fitting, and prior to its release for sale 1,300 were pre-sold. According to marque experts, approximately 3,000 examples of the Continental Mark II were produced, plus three prototypes and 11 pre-production vehicles, with the majority of production sold for model year 1956. Today, these glamorous vehicles continue to rank firmly among knowledgeable collectors and enthusiasts as the finest and most interesting of all American luxury cars of the postwar era.

271446_InteriorWhile improving upon the original Continental Mark II is extremely difficult, the builders of this custom Resto-Mod 1957 Continental Mark II managed to accomplish the feat in extremely fine form. A multiple-award-winner at today’s top custom-car shows and events, this Mark II is known as “Cashmere” and, as with the exotic fabric, this stunning custom exemplifies the disciplines of fine design, build quality and luxury throughout.

The build started with a California car, with design and modifications by the acclaimed Havasu Speed. Subtle body modifications include a 1.75-inch roof chop, shortening of the front fenders by 0.375 inches at the headlamps, lowering of the rear “Continental” hump 2.75 inches and sectioning by 2 inches. Other details include custom door handles designed to follow the bodyside contour and a complete redesign of the front bumper, shortened and tucked into the car’s body. The Dark Cashmere paint (a Bentley color) was provided by Sikkens and Premier Street Rod of Lake Havasu, Arizona, performed the body prep and paint.

Powering “Cashmere” is a Ford 5.0-liter Coyote V8 engine equipped with an Edelbrock Victor II EFI manifold. Power delivery is via a Performance Automatic 4R70W Street Smart 4-speed automatic transmission with a Simple Shift transmission control system operated using a Mastershift push-button head unit. Underneath it all, the original Mark II frame rails were boxed and combined with a newly designed front clip from Jim Meyer Enterprises. The full front and rear independent suspension was designed by Kugel Komponents to support the weight of a larger car. The power brake system incorporates Wilwood 6-piston calipers and 13-inch drilled and slotted rotors. The undercarriage is completely powder-coated in two-tone colors and sports a center section belly pan for a completely sanitary look. The 19-inch wheels were cut by Colorado Custom, measuring 19×9 inches in the front and 19×9.5 to the rear. A smooth ride is courtesy of a RideTech air-ride suspension system with AccuAir management.

The stunning two-tone, all-leather interior was designed by Ron Mangus Interiors, with the dashboard designed by the owner. Gauges are by Classic Instruments with custom logos approved by Ford. Other features include an audio system supplied and installed by KICKER, plus power rack & pinion steering, air conditioning and power windows. Accolades include the inaugural Sam Foose Memorial Design Award presented by Chip Foose, the Al Slonaker Achievement Award and Al Slonaker Outstanding Interior Award – all at the 2020 L.A. Roadster Show. Other top honors include the Goodguys Del Mar First Place Custom Rod Award, a Goodguys Scottsdale Top 10 Award and a Goodguys Custom of the Year Top 12 Pick. Be sure to attend the upcoming Scottsdale Auction, scheduled January 20-28, 2024, where you will be able to experience the grandeur of “Cashmere” directly and place your bid on this stunning, multiple-show-winning custom.

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