2001 Lincoln MK9 Concept

In 1998, the Lincoln Mark VIII went out of production. The long-standing series would remain out of the market until the introduction of the MK9 at the 2001 New York International Auto Show.

The MK9 had a 121.9-inch wheelbase, four-wheel power anti-lock disc brakes, an automatic transmission, and a DOHC V8 engine. There are brushed aluminum door hinges, and side air exhaust from the engine compartment. The tail theme is reminiscent of the 1961-67 four-door Continentals. The interior is a combination of Dark Cherry Red and Marlboro Red leathers with accents of polished metal. Dark Cherry saddle leather is used on the floor and white leather in the headliner. Foot room is improved in the front seats which are cantilevered off the center console.

In 2010, this vehicle was offered for sale at the 'Sports & Classics of Monterey' presented by RM Auctions. The car was estimated to sell for $75,000 - $100,000 and offered without reserve. As bidding came to a close, the car had been sold for the sum of $101,750 inclusive of buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Dec 2010

Debuted at the New York Auto Show on April 11, 2001, the Lincoln MK9 Concept was a stunning display of timeless elegance. The marque has always been the embodiment of pure American luxury and their Mark name is saved for the truly special vehicles throughout their history. The MK9 coupe concept was a broad hint as to the future of Lincoln vehicles, according to Lincoln, and is a statement of the brand's 'American Luxury' signature.

'Unmistakable American' according to Lincoln Design Director Gerry McGovern, the MK 9 concept sported dramatic proportions, a short nose and long tail stance with a cab set away from the front wheels. The interior of the MK 9 was the epitome of 'American Luxury' and this was evident in its indulgently comfortable surrounds. McGovern also stated that Lincoln will 'build on the design direction evident in the MK 9 through new concept and production vehicles.'

A striking chrome-accented upper shoulder line runs along the length of the MK 9 in a flamboyant manner defining the edges of the front and rear fascia. Chrome detail and gloss black paint contrast with the smooth sweep of the body side surfaces. The marques signature grille is bordered by twin xenon gas discharge headlamps with integrated turn signal indicators. Functional air vents are found on the front fenders and hood and each fender outlet is part of a ring frame that traces the sill and door opening to improve structural integrity. The machined aluminum door hinges were mounted in the ring frames. Contrasting with the simple body side the lower section of the ring frames are left exposed as a design element. Flush-mounted to the door skin are aluminum door handles that are accessible via remote control.

The plush interior features the dual Dark Cherry Red and sumptuous Marlboro Red leathers with polished metal accents. The flooring is made up of Dark Cherry saddle leather while white leather makes up the headliner. Providing spacious passenger foot space, the front seats are cantilevered off the center console reminiscent of the Eames Lounge Chair, a mid-20th Century American classic. The body-colored seat shells are similar visually to the horizontal chrome finishers.

The dashboard featured neat, simplistic features that were symmetrical and more 'retro' than the outside of the car. The etched glass instruments are illuminated indirectly. The MK9's controls were a mixture of advanced digital and analog interfaces. A reconfigurable screen is located in the center console and displays navigation and telematics information. The screen is operated by retractable controls that sit flush when not used. Transmission selection is via an electronic, column-mounted paddle shifter. Both the center and roof consoles feature dimmable electro-luminescent light panels hidden behind translucent metallic surfaces. In the headliner are individual spotlights that use fiber-optic technology.

Riding in a 121.9-inch wheelbase, the MK9 had four-wheel power anti-lock disc brakes, a DOHC V8 engine and an automatic transmission.

Mark Hutchins, President of Lincoln Mercury had a vision of the MK9 as the 'guide' to 'Lincoln's growth in North America, and eventually, in Europe and other markets around the world.' The MK9 kicked off Lincoln's new naming convention using a combination of letters and numbers.

In 2010 the MK9 Concept was presented by RM Auctions for sale at the 'Sports & Classics of Monterey' and sold for $101,750 inclusive of buyer's premium.

Sources:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lincoln_MK9
http://archive.cardesignnews.com/autoshows/2001/newyork/highlights/lincoln-mk9/

By Jessica Donaldson