http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/01/a-deeper-look-into-the-lincoln-brand-reviving-or-dying/ Autoblog Comments for A Deeper Look Into the Lincoln Brand: Reviving or Dying? http://www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2008 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/01/a-deeper-look-into-the-lincoln-brand-reviving-or-dying/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/01/a-deeper-look-into-the-lincoln-brand-reviving-or-dying/
You seem to flip-flop on FWD, though, first implying it's Lincoln's main problem, then noting that most of Lexus' volume comes from FWD models. I should add that the RWD GS has been a sales disappointment for three generations at this point.

I don't see the MKS as a DTS competitor, the proportions and appearance are too import-oriented. I'm seeing a stronger match with the Infiniti M. Though the M is RWD, many of those sold are AWD, and the MKS will be available with AWD. Problem is, Infiniti only moves about 25k of these a year.

In general, for Lincoln to come back it needs a distinctive, strongly appealing look shared by every model in the line, thoroughly competitive drivetrains, leading-edge features (Bluetooth, keyless start, MyGig, etc.), and class-leading interior fit and finish. I don't see any of this happening yet. The best I can say is that the interiors are distinctive, but I don't sense that many people love what they see there, if they even bother to look.]]>Feb 1st 2007 10:00AMhttp://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/01/a-deeper-look-into-the-lincoln-brand-reviving-or-dying/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/01/a-deeper-look-into-the-lincoln-brand-reviving-or-dying/Feb 1st 2007 10:02AMhttp://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/01/a-deeper-look-into-the-lincoln-brand-reviving-or-dying/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/01/a-deeper-look-into-the-lincoln-brand-reviving-or-dying/
Bring the Euro Mondeo over as a TSX/A4/IS fighter, position the MKZ against the TL/A6/ES/G35, the MKS against the RL/M45/GS and the MKX against the FX35/RDX/RX350. Right now, Lincoln has pricing and equipment advantages with the MKZ and MKX (which feature for feature/dollar for dollar, may be one of the best croosover/SUV values out there).

TEAR DOWN and rebuild the Lincoln dealerships to compete too.]]>Feb 1st 2007 10:25AMhttp://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/01/a-deeper-look-into-the-lincoln-brand-reviving-or-dying/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/01/a-deeper-look-into-the-lincoln-brand-reviving-or-dying/Feb 1st 2007 10:28AMhttp://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/01/a-deeper-look-into-the-lincoln-brand-reviving-or-dying/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/01/a-deeper-look-into-the-lincoln-brand-reviving-or-dying/
I think you made a mistake there buddy. You probably meant 'Ford needs to position Lincoln not against Audi, BMW, or MB, but against Acura, Infinitiy, Lexus, and Cadillac.' Little mistake, but shows your lack of knowledge of the luxury market...]]>Feb 1st 2007 10:34AMhttp://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/01/a-deeper-look-into-the-lincoln-brand-reviving-or-dying/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/01/a-deeper-look-into-the-lincoln-brand-reviving-or-dying/
1. The Panther platform was introduced in the fall of 1978 in the new 1979 downsized full-size Fords. This would be late 70s, NOT "early 70s"

2. The 4.6L V8 engine in the Town Car is far from being "Almost as ancient as the [panther] platform". The modular family of V8 engines of which this 4.6 was its first entry, dates back from 1995. That's 17 whole years after the introduction of the panther platform. By the way, the 4.6 Triton engine used in the F-150 is a significantly different engine.

All of the above doesn't make any different in the sad state of affairs at Lincoln but it does bring a little bit of justice and perspective. The Town Car is not a throw back from the early 70s but rather the early 80s with a very competitive and competent mid 90s engine, which one of its very close cousins (lot closer that the Triton that you erroneously wrote was the same engine) the 4.6L in the Mustang GT just made Wards 10 best engines list.]]>Feb 1st 2007 11:03AMhttp://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/01/a-deeper-look-into-the-lincoln-brand-reviving-or-dying/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/01/a-deeper-look-into-the-lincoln-brand-reviving-or-dying/The proposed new model MKS and concept MKR may be Lincolns way out of the hole. Let's hope so.

As archaic as the TownCar platform and engine may be,
it is still roomy and a very comfortable ride.
The engine delivers decent power and surprsingly pretty good fuel mileage on the highway.
We had a rental TownCar for several weeks and the fuel mileage average was equal to or slightly better than my wifes 2005 Chysler van that stays on the road most of the time but in the shop at that time.
Only complaint: lack of feel between the tires on the road and the steering wheel. There was essentially none.
BEST of LUCK LINCOLN ]]>Feb 1st 2007 11:04AMhttp://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/01/a-deeper-look-into-the-lincoln-brand-reviving-or-dying/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/01/a-deeper-look-into-the-lincoln-brand-reviving-or-dying/
first, you say the Town Car has a "ridiculous" V-8 (why is this ridiculous?), and then you gripe there are no other V-8 engines in the Lincoln car line.

since when has a $45,000 Town Car been competition for a $75,000+ Lexus? answer: it isn't, and never has been. if you're looking for the grille-and-tail lights badge engineering job, it's the Mountaineer, NOT the Aviator. I thought the Aviator looked incredibly nice, and I'm not really a fan. sorry to see it go.

there are many of us out there who could care less about making the incredibly retrograde step back to RWD...and that comes from someone who lives in a place it never snows. if memory serves me correctly, I had much better luck PULLING that red Radio Flyer wagon around the yard when I was a kid than PUSHING it. don't think that cars are any different. I find it interesting to talk to friends and customers who do live in snow country about their experinces with the "new" RWD: they all say it's a real step backward, traction control or not. most are having to buy snow tires again, something they haven't done since the 70's. would you call this progress?

please don't shove that "standard AWD" crap down our throats. if you're going to offer it, make it an option. at this point, there are more of us who live in places it doesn't snow than places it does. AWD serves no purpose to me, and I don't want the increased maintainence and decreased MPG that come with it.

in case you think I'm typing this on a computer in a nursing home, you're wrong. I'm 52, and bought my first new Town Car in 1985. I was 31. I've had a Lincoln or Cadillac in my garage ever since. there have been others in there, too (Lexus, MBZ), but I always came back to the domestics. they were much more reliable (compared to the MBZ), and have a real soul (compared to the Lexus).

Mike



]]>Feb 1st 2007 11:27AMhttp://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/01/a-deeper-look-into-the-lincoln-brand-reviving-or-dying/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/01/a-deeper-look-into-the-lincoln-brand-reviving-or-dying/
Lincoln has one product that doesn't completely suck, the MKX with 3.39 axle ratio. Look at how slow the GMC acadia was in C&D with the 3.16 axle ratio (0-60 in 8.1, 1/4 16.4@85, 0-100 of 24.1)

The MKZ still uses the AW 6 speed auto instead of the GM/Ford one. Ford could position the lincoln as 3.5V6 front drive with the 3.16 axle ratio, and the haldex type drivetrain with the 3.39, while the Ford Fusion gets front drive 2.77 & 3.5, and 3.16 for its haldex type drivetrain. (until ford give the MKZ the 3.7)

The navigator has NEVER had four wheel drive, while the escalade has had a center differential from day one.]]>Feb 1st 2007 11:56AMhttp://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/01/a-deeper-look-into-the-lincoln-brand-reviving-or-dying/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/01/a-deeper-look-into-the-lincoln-brand-reviving-or-dying/ What about building a Lincoln on the Jaguar XJ platform and using the aluminum technology. It could make a great flagship car for Lincoln.]]>Feb 1st 2007 12:39PMhttp://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/01/a-deeper-look-into-the-lincoln-brand-reviving-or-dying/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/01/a-deeper-look-into-the-lincoln-brand-reviving-or-dying/Every time Lincoln gets a decent vehicle.. they manage to screw it up.

The LS was a fantastic piece of american design.. but it wasnt supposed to sit and rot on the vine. It wasnt updated. It wasnt touched. I think It was one of the non rebadged cars Ford had at the time, DE2 platform I think..

The Blackwood was a F-150 with more options and a wooden bed. They can that.. yet STILL bring over a vehicle.. that IS A F-150.. and its best luxo package. I ask.. for what?!

The Avaitor is a loss for words. Its an Exploder. Peel off that plastic grill and chrome light trim and ya find the same vehicle.. over at mercury WITH THE SAME LIGHT TRIM, for 2-3g more than at Ford.

Why the Edge is out is one thing I dont get.. but REBADGING IT as the new Crossover for Lincoln is the same problem they had with the Exploder. Dont these damn people learn!?

The MKZ / Zephr is a loss. Its just a Fusion for Lincoln. It took them.. however long and however much to publish the name and advertise the heck out of Zephr.. then they change the name to "try" and reflex on its "MARK" heritage, yet they toss that way with MKX, MKZ.. w/e nomenclature.

As for as the Continental / Town Car goes, the people who drive those SOFAS as daily commuters are a dense as the block thats moving the damn car. A total loss... even tho they havent touched it design wise.. IN YEARS.

In short.. THE HELL.. WITH LINCOLN]]>Feb 1st 2007 12:41PMhttp://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/01/a-deeper-look-into-the-lincoln-brand-reviving-or-dying/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/01/a-deeper-look-into-the-lincoln-brand-reviving-or-dying/Have you lost your mind???]]>Feb 1st 2007 12:43PMhttp://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/01/a-deeper-look-into-the-lincoln-brand-reviving-or-dying/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/01/a-deeper-look-into-the-lincoln-brand-reviving-or-dying/
1. The Panther platform does not have its roots in an early 1970s LTD. It was introduced for the 1979 model year as Ford's downsized full-size passenger-car offering.

2. The 4.6L engine in the Town Car is not the same as the one in the F-150. The horsepower ratings may be the same, but the engines are different. The truck engines have different internal components, a different intake manifold, and different PCMs. The F-150 also has two different V8s(4.6L, 5.4L), whereas the Town Car only has a 4.6L.

3. As for the engine being nearly as "ancient" as the chassis, Ford's modular engine family made its debut a little over ten years ago ... hardly "ancient," and not nearly as old as the Panther platform itself(see #1 above).

4. The transmission used in the Town Car is Ford's 4R70 automatic, which is also used with the 4.6L V8 in the F-150 - but get a 5.4L engine in the F-150 an you get a 4R75 transmission, which is related to the 4R70 but not exactly the same, and most likely would not swap into the Town Car. It would not surprise me if the gear ratios and the PCM calibration in the 4R70 truck transmission are different from that in the Town Car, too.

If you want to go off on Lincoln, feel free to do so. But do it with facts and not assumptions - OK?]]>Feb 1st 2007 1:04PMhttp://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/01/a-deeper-look-into-the-lincoln-brand-reviving-or-dying/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/01/a-deeper-look-into-the-lincoln-brand-reviving-or-dying/
MERCURY should be aimed at Acura, Audi, Infiniti, and the mid-level near-lux driver-oriented cars

Lincoln should be going after BMW 5&7, etc... Mercedes, Lexus, and Cadillac.

Maybe a slightly lower price point, but why cap off lincoln in the market segment that should be, and used to be, Mercury's?]]>Feb 1st 2007 1:15PMhttp://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/01/a-deeper-look-into-the-lincoln-brand-reviving-or-dying/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/01/a-deeper-look-into-the-lincoln-brand-reviving-or-dying/Feb 1st 2007 1:16PMhttp://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/01/a-deeper-look-into-the-lincoln-brand-reviving-or-dying/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/01/a-deeper-look-into-the-lincoln-brand-reviving-or-dying/
And to "che" (#6), whatever DJ meant, YOU showed your ignorance with your "Infinity" comment.]]>Feb 1st 2007 1:40PMhttp://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/01/a-deeper-look-into-the-lincoln-brand-reviving-or-dying/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/01/a-deeper-look-into-the-lincoln-brand-reviving-or-dying/
Lincoln, and Mercury could do well, if properly done, with refitted versions of the upcoming XF. OR at least applying some of the XF components th the S197 Mustang Chassis, to produce a nice mercury sport sedan, and the MKR into a production version.

I still think that the C-XF, sans the jaguar cues, and a bit de-contented, could make a wicked Mercury RWD sport coupe-ish sedan to compete with the G35, splitting between the coupe and sedan bodystyles. Audi A5 is coming, too... Acura RL/TL-S, Lexus IS, etc. With a supercharged AJ V8, Twin-Force Turbo V6, or 4.6-5.4 modular V8 could be in the ring with the IS-F, or proposed G-series Infiniti Coupe, with their V8.

Lincoln MKR could make a nice new RWD Luxo-perfomance Continental, and could replace the LS properly. It would be intended to go up against the 5-series, E-class, GS, M45, and STS(-V). Leave FWD/AWD-based transverse-engine rebadge/upgrade of the 500 chassis for a Town Car-replacement competitor to the DTS.

All they have to do is have the guts and determination to build, market, and sell them, rather than the bureaucratic inertia to continue on their road to the grave.]]>Feb 1st 2007 2:14PMhttp://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/01/a-deeper-look-into-the-lincoln-brand-reviving-or-dying/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/01/a-deeper-look-into-the-lincoln-brand-reviving-or-dying/
On the product side, they definitely screwed the pooch by not paying more attention to the LS. It was a pretty good car to start with, and could have been a much better car had it been continually updated during its model run. An SUV might sort of make sense, especially the newer crossover type, but a pickup just seems like a stupid idea. I expect to see some iteration of the MKR, especially since it's not the only show car Ford has shown recently based on the Mustang platform with an independent rear suspension.

They can save the brand, they just need to do a few things that make sense and get rid of some stuff that doesn't fit. ]]>Feb 1st 2007 3:52PMhttp://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/01/a-deeper-look-into-the-lincoln-brand-reviving-or-dying/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/01/a-deeper-look-into-the-lincoln-brand-reviving-or-dying/
I agree with #6 and #15. Mercury should be refreshed and aimed at the Lexus/Acura segment. Lincoln should be a DIRECT competitor to Cadillac, though I don't see them pulling too much business from MB and BMW. They need to put something fun like the MKR in production. MKR = XLR or CTS killer?

I'm definitely considering an MKS as my LSE replacement especially if it comes with the twin turbo V-6. ]]>Feb 1st 2007 3:56PMhttp://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/01/a-deeper-look-into-the-lincoln-brand-reviving-or-dying/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/01/a-deeper-look-into-the-lincoln-brand-reviving-or-dying/"The LS was a fantastic piece of american design.. "
______Well, I remember, as if if were yesterday, driving next to a blacked-out, taped up vehicle on LaBrea avenue. (I have often seen prototypes on the road in LA) It look me a minute, but I said, "That has to be the new Lincoln I heard about. JEEEZUS! It looks like a Mitsubishi!" -- and it did, stolen straight from a secondary Japanese make, and pretty similar to Galants and Diamantes of the time. Perhaps someone in Dearborn thought he was getting away with this, #12.
Nothing wrong with derivative design that WORKS and looks unique -- the present Town Car, when new, struck me as coming from the Jaguar Mark X and Daimler, not from any Lincoln. I hated that the LS was copied from a cheaper car.

AND -- I gotta repeat what I wrote weeks ago. If the MKR is showing us the styling that will be used on the Town Car replacement, we are talking about a hit! For now, Lincoln does not need a new small model (and certainly never an IS competitor!!!!!!), but they need the car that SELLS fixed first. ]]>Feb 1st 2007 4:28PM