Lincoln Motor Company

Year of foundation 1917

The history of Lincoln is a saga of luxury, innovation, and changes in ownership. Born as an independent company, it quickly became Ford's flagship, establishing itself as one of America's most prestigious luxury brands.

Foundation and Early Years (1917–1922)
The Lincoln Motor Company was founded in 1917 by Henry M. Leland, an engineer and automotive pioneer. Initially, the company focused on producing Liberty aircraft engines, which were used during World War I. Only after the end of the war in 1920 did Lincoln focus on the production of luxury automobiles, launching its first model, the Model L. Although the quality was high, disastrous financial management brought the company to the brink of bankruptcy.

The Ford Acquisition (1922)
In 1922, Ford Motor Company, led by Henry Ford, purchased Lincoln for $8 million. Initially, Ford's management was chaotic, and production failed to take off. However, the intervention of Edsel Ford, Henry's son, changed the brand's fortunes. Edsel, an aesthete with an innate sense of style, understood Lincoln's potential as a luxury brand. Under his leadership, Lincoln underwent a profound transformation, focusing on design, elegance, and exclusivity.

The Golden Era and the Sales Boom (1930-1940)
The 1930s were Lincoln's golden era. In 1936, the Zephyr, a smaller, more affordable model, was launched, which helped boost sales. But the real turning point came in 1940 with the Continental, an iconic car with a bold and luxurious design. The Continental became the symbol of American glamour and style, beloved by celebrities and influential figures. Its influence on automotive design endures to this day.

Postwar and Iconic Models (1950-1970)
After World War II, Lincoln continued to produce high-quality luxury automobiles. In 1955, the Continental Mark II was launched, a sumptuous and expensive car that positioned itself as the ultimate expression of American luxury. Another milestone was the 1961 Continental, famous for its clean lines and rear "suicide" doors, which became the quintessential presidential car, immortalized by the car in which President John F. Kennedy was assassinated.

Challenges and Transition (1980-2000)
The 1980s and 1990s were a time of great change. Lincoln faced increasingly fierce competition from German and Japanese brands. The best-selling models during this period were the Town Car, a spacious and comfortable sedan, and the Navigator SUV, which marked Lincoln's entry into the luxury SUV segment, dominating the market and paving the way for a new chapter for the brand.

The New Millennium and Rebirth (2000–Present)
In the early 2000s, Lincoln went through a period of decline, with a model lineup often criticized for being too similar to Ford's. In recent years, however, the brand has undergone a true renaissance, focusing on unique designs and innovative technologies. Models such as the Continental (reintroduced in 2017) and the latest-generation Navigator have revived the brand, repositioning it in the luxury segment. Today, Lincoln continues to compete in the luxury vehicle market, focusing on comfort, technology, and distinctive design, with an eye on the future of electrification.