On July 15th, 2023, Southern Alberta buzzed with excitement as it hosted its largest gathering of auto enthusiasts during Street Machine Weekend.  The weekend always draws an incredible display of vehicles from across the country. It's a weekend filled with cruising, car shows, and a multitude of events. Among the stunning array of automobiles, one of the most unique vehicles I spotted was this personalised Lincoln Mark V.

Front of the Continental

In the fifth mark of the Lincoln Continental, the Ford Motor Company collaborated with fashion greats like Cartier, Bill Blass and Emilio Pucci to create a range of special edition Continentals. Each of these specialty Lincolns came with its own unique colour combinations, interior design, and distinctive details throughout the vehicle.

Rear of the Continental

This Lincoln Continental Mark V was an absolute treat to behold, featuring unique and personalised touches throughout this luxurious automobile. The cyan blue paint was one of a kind, having never been optioned on a Lincoln of this era. The flame design added a fiery hot rod element, appearing to burst out from the faux fender vents along the sides. The wheels and exhaust tips were painted a blazing orange hue, and the bug catcher air cleaner, poking through a hole in the hood, truly embodied the spirit of a “Hot Rod Lincoln,” reminiscent of the one that Charley Ryan once sang about.

Front clip of the Lincoln with all its unique touches

As I peeked inside this Hot Rod Lincoln, I couldn’t help but notice the remarkable interior details and colours. The special seat inserts, featuring a pig-skin texture and Chamois-coloured leather upholstery, strongly suggested that this was either a 1977 Bill Blass edition or, at the least, had the interior from one. This Lincoln was undeniably a one-of-a-kind beauty to behold.

Interior of the Lincoln

This Hot Rod Lincoln, with its vibrant colours and custom touches, was undeniably one of the more remarkable sights I had witnessed in my years of attending the event. This Continental offered a truly unique and unforgettable experience within the already amazing weekend.

Interior of the Lincoln

Till next time, get creative and wild with your cars, add some colours, unique flair and get hot rodding!

- Kyle Hanger of Searching for Classics