2002 Continental?

[mystery]

Any opinions on the 2002 Continental? I think that was the last year for it? Or was it 2003?

I saw a used one for sale and am wondering if it might be worth a look.

Any problem spots to look out for?

[Nick]

2002 was indeed the last year. There aren't any real mechanical problem areas. My mom's 1999 had a bad air suspension line that left the rear end on the ground and a defective power steering rack seal that after 25-30k miles from the factory finally let go. Both repairs were under warranty and were factory defect specific to that car. My dad's 2000 has had no problems. Both cars have about 40k miles on them and we have loved their power and styling. Oddly, the 1999 definitely feels like it has more power, even though there were no engine changes between these two model years.

If you are going to look for one, I would highly suggest looking for a car with the optional Driver Select System and the optional Alpine stereo. The Driver Select System has steering wheel mounted controls for climate and audio in addition to electronically adjustable rear shocks. When set on firm, there is a noticeable difference with body control on fast, curvy highways and a slight difference around town. The adjustable shocks help, but lots of body roll and understeer characterize the handling best. Performance parts are all but nonexistant too. The DOHC 4.6L is a real gem of a motor though, making a nice growl with the RPMs above 3k and then building up to a scream.

Either stereo has poor stereo imaging, but the Alpine stereo nets you bass response not present in the other system. Two 6x9" speakers in the parcel shelf are used to produce the bass notes while speakers in the four doors are left to do the rest. The standard stereo does not have the 6x9s and the head unit lacks DSP (Digital Signal Processing).

Wind and road noise are pretty loud in the car. Ford definitely cut corners here. The headlights aren't too bright either, even with Sylvania Silverstars. The more options the car has, the more it will feel like a Lincoln. The strippers are pretty bare in terms of features when you compare them to competitors'offerings in the original price range.

For its faults, the cars are good deals when heavily discounted new (We got ours at around $10k or more off sticker new) and especially used, when their depreciation hits like a freight train. They're fast (0-60 in about 7), comfortable, relatively rare, and very stylish. Best of luck!

[Silver Cobra]

quote:The strippers are pretty bare

That is so true :D . I would definitely recommend one of these cars to anyone especially if they've owned a Conti in the past. What's the asking price? These cars lose a lot of money which is why I ended up buying one. Mine's been reliable since I bought it last April.

Pros: Comfort, pretty good on gas, plenty of power and performance, lots of gadgets to play with and brag about ;) . Very good purchase if used. Nowhere near as expensive as a Caddy to repair.

Cons: FWD :( . Can't really play with it because of that.

Performance upgrades are possible for these. i.e. intake, chip (a must), exhaust and probably something else. My ultimate goal is to see mid to low 13s in the 1/4 mile and mark my words it will happen ;) :D . Good luck with your decision and let us know what happens!

[pro-five-oh]

There really aren't any Conti specific troublespots. Most of the bugs were worked out in the late 90s. Some have said the transaxles can be flaky, and I am sure it will need the usual CV joint-work in the future like any FWD car.

After leasing a 1999 model for 2 years, I found the build quality to be below average for its price (i.e. a 45K Lexus is probably more durable in the long run) so take a test drive and make sure there aren't any squeaks or rattles. The ride is nice, seats are great, and the motor is like a drug. smile.gif

I would look at a 1999 or older model to take advantage of Lincoln's fantastic ability to depreciate to a fraction of its original value faster than any other luxury car. That is what makes owning a Continental a great idea. ;)

[mystery]

Thanks guys!