AutoHunter Spotlight: 1956 Continental Mark II
Currently offered for sale on AutoHunter is this 1956 Continental Mark II. Ford Motor Company created a new division for 1956—Continental, placed a notch above Lincoln—specifically for the revival of the Mark series, and it was priced several thousand dollars over typical Lincoln offerings. This one has received mild customization, mainly seen in the exterior paint and interior. Power comes from a 365ci “Y-block” V8 paired with a three-speed Turbo-Drive automatic transmission. Features include power windows, power front disc brakes, air conditioning, power seat, aftermarket stereo, and more. Painted in two-tone silver and gray metallic over a gray and red leather interior, this ultra-luxury cruiser is offered by the selling dealer in California with upholstered tool bags and a clear title.
The silver and gray metallic paints were sourced from the 2020 Mercedes-Benz palette, the same year of the Mark’s restoration. The paint is complemented by red pinstriping. Other features include driver-side chrome mirror, Continental badge on the trunk lid, and chrome rocker trim. A set of 15-inch red-painted steel wheels are wrapped in 8.50 Coker Classic whitewall radials.
The cabin is furnished with gray and red leather, with the front bench being power-operated. Features include factory air conditioning, power steering, power windows, column-mounted transmission shifter, aftermarket AM/FM/auxiliary stereo nicely tucked away, and custom cup holders.
Instrumentation includes a 140-mph speedometer, 5,000-rpm tachometer, and gauges for the oil pressure, temperature, amperage, and fuel level. The odometer shows 73,563 miles, though the title reads mileage-exempt.
The 368ci V8 was rated at 285 horsepower, and features a rebuilt four-barrel carburetor and 10:1 compression. Shifting is handled by a rebuilt three-speed Turbo-Drive automatic transmission.
The undercarriage features power front disc brakes and a dual exhaust system. A new power brake booster and shock absorbers have been installed.
In 1956, the Continental Mark II was America’s most expensive production car at a cost of $10,000. Compare that with a Lincoln Premiere convertible, which started at around $4,747—that’s quite a big difference! The Mark II was America’s Rolls-Royce, if you will, a hand-built nod to the original Lincoln Continental.
The subject of our AutoHunter Spotlight has received several tasteful modifications that make the Mark appear less conservative, but make no mistake, this is still among the classiest cars of the decade. In order to bring 1950s haute couture to your driveway, you will have to place a bid before 12:00 p.m. (MST) on Friday, January 16, 2026.
Visit the AutoHunter listing for more information and a photo gallery
