1993 Lincoln Mark VIII Disappearing Door Prototype Concept Car – Both Doors Working
I am very pleased to be able to offer this 1993 Lincoln Mark VIII prototype concept car. This car started life as an ordinary 1993 Mark VIII but that is where the ordinary ends.
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* To view a great commercial featuring this Disappearing Door Lincoln, click here
The lore of this car is as follows:
Lincoln executives were concerned about the heavy and wide doors on the Mark VIII in the early 1990’s especially in large cities with tight parking spots. They were toying with the idea of a Mark VIII that had doors that disappeared beneath the car which would require no additional space for the doors to swing open in order to allow the occupant to exit or enter. Back in the day, the major auto makers would sub-contract their concept designs to other engineering firms who specialiazed in auto concepts and executions. In this particular case, this Lincoln Mark VIII was shipped over to Joalto Design Inc. near Detroit.
Joalto Design Inc. created this amazing, one of a kind concept car and shipped it back to Lincoln for executive approval. Be sure to click on the video below to watch the door miraculously disappear underneath the car – you will be shocked and amazed. Unfortunately, the Ford Motor Company executives did not like the design and ordered the car (and the concept) to be sent to the junkyard and destroyed. The current owner had been tracking this car for nearly 14 years and finally convinced the previous owner to part with it.
Thus is the story of this amazing Lincoln concept car. There is no documentation to substantiate the claims above but it is completely within the realm of possibility and in fact likely that the events occurred as above. Since the executives wanted all evidence destroyed, we are relying on lore in this case.
My Personal Impressions |
I was lucky enough to view, photograph, videotape and drive this unique car on 07/02/07. At first viewing, this car appeared to be a normal rust free Lincoln Mark VIII only with the door handles removed. Then I noticed that the doors themselves were different and much wider. Then, when the owner activated the disappearing doors with a remote key fob, I could only think “Holy S**t, where did the door go?” I was truly amazed at the smooth execution of the door as it both disappeared below the car and then at the touch of a button, it re-appeared and went back to it’s normal closed position.
I drove the car approx. 15 miles and was impressed by the ride, acceleration and braking. The car drove as a 1993 Lincoln Mark VIII should and the air ride suspension worked properly. The mileage shows 43,263 and is believed to be correct. The car was actually used as a daily driver for a number of years. Wheels are in excellent shape and Goodyear Eagle GA tires (225/60R/16’s all around) are similarly in excellent shape.
The AC blew ice cold and the AM/FM cassette radio worked fine. The car is very striking in it’s Aubergine Clearcoat Metallic color. It’s a very gorgeous color especially in strong sunlight.
The 4.6L Lincoln four cam V-8 pulled well and sounded strong. The taupe interior is in good shape with some wear. There is scratching, marking and general wear and tear on the outside doors especially the drivers door. There is also a split in the rear bumper cover. The VIN # is 1LNLM91V1PY768898.
In Summary |
This is a multi personality car – it is a concept car and a piece of automotive history that the executives at Lincoln desired to squelch according to the lore. This unique car will amaze everyone who sees it – guaranteed. Pull into any car show or cruise night and you will be the center of attention. If you plan on starting a collection of unique concept cars, this is a great and economical way to start.
Vehicle Condition – – I have personally inspected, photographed, videotaped and driven this unique Lincoln. I can say with first hand experience that this is truly a unique and one of a kind car. This great concept car would be the highlight of any collection and is guaranteed to attract attention anywhere it is shown. It is in good survivor condition.
Please note that both doors function properly. The window in the drivers door was cracked so it has been removed. The new owner will need to replace that window if he/she chooses. There are also some scratches and abrasions to the lower part of the drivers door. It is being sold in “as is” and “where is” condition.
This car is located near Lake Forest, IL. The seller is willing to offer a visual inspection of the car before the end of the auction to any serious and qualified buyer. Please no tire kickers. Seeing will surely be believing.
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Sold For: $15,000