Later this month, a rare luxury coupe—the 1993 Lincoln Mark VIII—will be featured at the Mecum auction. While a standard Mark VIII might not typically generate much excitement, this particular model stands out as it is a pre-production unit crafted by Ford to assess the capabilities of its new V8 engine: the modular 4.6-liter, which would later equip several vehicles from the company.
Ford implemented various modifications to this vehicle, including adding a roll cage. Notable changes encompassed the removal of the rear brakes and the substitution of the catalytic converters with a genuine dual-exhaust system. The auction listing describes the automatic transmission as featuring elevated clutch clearances, shafts without runout, and no imbalances in rotating parts, alongside a few additional adjustments. The suspension was also remodeled, allowing the Mark VIII to sit two inches lower than the normal quarter-inch drop.
Gallery: 1993 Lincoln Mark VIII Class-D Land Speed Stock Car Prototype
The modifications to the Lincoln were put to the test at the Bonneville Salt Flats, where Holly Hedrich achieved an impressive speed of 182.694 miles per hour (294.017 kilometers per hour) during a two-way run, setting a class record. The dynamometer rated the 4.6-liter engine at a power output ranging between 290 and 205 horsepower (about 219 to 220 kilowatts).
On the outside, the Lincoln retains the look of a typical Mark VIII. However, the addition of hood pins hints at its performance capabilities, even as the overall appearance remains subdued. Entering the car involves maneuvering around the roll cage inside, and a fire suppression system in the back seat restricts practical use.
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The prototype 1993 Lincoln Mark VIII is set to go under the hammer on August 27, marking the opening day of the Mecum Auctions Kissimmee Summer Special 2020 event. Over the course of three days, numerous other thrilling cars will also be auctioned. While there’s no specific estimate for the car’s value, it does carry a reserve, meaning it might not be sold if the bidding does not meet a certain threshold.
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