Logo

1963 Lincoln Continental

The 1963 Lincoln Continental: A total classic! Big, boxy, and undeniably stylish, it oozed luxury. A favorite of presidents and celebrities, it defined 60s elegance. Its suicide doors and distinctive silhouette remain iconic even today. A true piece of automotive history!

The Noteworthy Heritage of the 1963 Lincoln Continental

The 1963 Lincoln Continental stands as a beacon of luxury and classic design in the automotive world. Developed at a time when Lincoln was challenging Cadillac's dominance, it exudes sophistication and timeless appeal. Styled by Elwood Engel, this fourth-generation model introduced a distinctive aesthetic that not only broke contemporary norms but also set a standard in American car design.

Photo of a 1963 Lincoln Continental

1963 Lincoln Continental Models:

Select the vehicle's model to see the correct data for it.

How Much is Lincoln Continental Worth?

Original MSRP :$6,916.00

Outstanding

tooltip
$111,000

Clean

tooltip
$82,800

Average

tooltip
$60,200*

Rough

tooltip
$24,600

1963 Lincoln Continental Specs

Body Maker: Lincoln
No. Of Doors: 2
Model Number: 74A
Length: 213.3 inches
Width: 78.6 inches
Height: 53.7? inches
Wheelbase: 123 inches
Weight: 5,340lbs
Type: V8, Valve-in-head, Downdraft 4-barrel, Turbo Drive
Displacement: 429.59 cu. in.
Cylinders: 8
Bore And Stroke: 4 19/64 & 3 45/64 inches
Compression Ratio Standard: 10.1 to 1
Compression Ratio Optional: Not applicable
Horsepower Brake: 320@4600
Horsepower Rated: 59.08
Torque: 465@2000
Main Bearings: 5
Valve Lifters: Hydraulic
Engine Number Location: On left front door hinge post below upper hinge opening.
Lubrication: Pressure to all bearings excluding wrist pin
Carburetor Make: Carter
Type:
23.5 Pints
Drive:
Rear wheel drive
Clutch Type:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios:
3
Gear Ratios First:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Second:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Third:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Fourth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Fifth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Reverse:
Not applicable
Type: Semifloating
Differential Type: Hypoid
Differential Ratio: 2.89 to 1
Front: Independent ball joint with coil springs
Rear: Longitudinal leaf spring
Service Type: Power, hydraulic
Service Front Size: 11 inches
Service Rear Size: 11 inches
Emergency Type: Rear service brakes
Emergency Size: 11 inches
Tire Size: 9 x 14
Spare Location: Trunk
Fuel: 21 Gallons
Oil: 5 Quarts
Rear Differential: 4.75 Pints
Front Differential: Not applicable
Transfer Case: Not applicable
Serial Number:Starting 3Y86A400001
Total Digits:11
Digits 1:Model year
Digits 2:Assembly plant
Digits 3-4:Series & Body style
Digits 5:Engine
Digits 6-11:Production number
All colors may not be available in all models., Ermine White, Premier Yellow, Nassau Beige, Autumn Frost, Polynesian Gold, Silver Mink, Inverness Green, Highlander Green, Riviera Turquoise, Platinum, Bermuda Blue, Nocturne Blue, Teaberry, Rose, Spanish Red, Burgundy Frost, Black Satin, Oxford Gray
Convertible: Opt
Pushbutton Radio: Opt

Interested in buying a classic car or selling one?

Access detailed history reports for classic vehicles from hundreds of manufacturers.

  • play
    Accident Records
  • play
    Theft Records
  • play
    Loan & Lien Information
  • play
    Auction Information
  • play
    Salvage Information and more
What is Not Included in a Classic Car Build Sheet

History of the 1963 Lincoln Continental

Development and Design

In the late 1950s, Lincoln faced intense competition. However, the design team led by Elwood Engel, along with Howard Payne and John Orfe, crafted a vehicle that defied the conventions of its era. Initially meant for the 1961 Ford Thunderbird, their design caught Ford executives' eyes, eventually shaping the Lincoln Continental. This model sported a long-hood, short-deck configuration that lent it a classic, luxurious silhouette.

Recognition and Awards

With its extraordinary engineering and elegant design, the 1963 Lincoln Continental earned accolades like the Industrial Design Institute of New York's bronze medal and Car Life's 1961 Engineering Excellence Award.

Pop Culture Presence

No stranger to the silver screen, the Continental has made numerous appearances in films and TV shows. It starred in iconic films such as Goodfellas and Groundhog Day, symbolizing elegance and opulence, which has helped cement its cultural significance.

Learn more about a classic car: Get Build Sheet by VIN.

Access reproduced classic build sheets to learn more about your classic vehicle details.

  • play
    Standard Specifications
  • play
    Original Base Price
  • play
    Standard & Optional Equipment
  • play
    Exterior & Interior Colors
  • play
    VIN ID & Location description
Classic Build Sheets by VIN

Famous Figures Who Own the Lincoln Continental

President John F. Kennedy

Undeniably, President John F. Kennedy's association with the Lincoln Continental adds to its allure. The President was riding in a modified 1961 Continental when he was assassinated, marking the car as an unforgettable symbol of American history.

Clint Eastwood

Actor and director Clint Eastwood added a Lincoln Continental Mk LT to his film, The Mule. Its inclusion highlighted the vehicle's ongoing relevance and timeless coolness in modern narratives.

Cuba Gooding Jr.

In commercials and music videos alike, figures such as Cuba Gooding Jr. have used Lincolns, reinforcing their image as stylish and powerful vehicles. Notably, a Mark V features prominently in his advertisement work.

Interested in Buying or Selling a Classic Car?

Whether buying or selling, knowing the detailed history of a classic car is essential. Dive into the specifics with a comprehensive to uncover its past. For older vehicles, a can be invaluable. Here's why these documents matter:

  • play

    Accident Records

  • play

    Theft Records

  • play

    Loan & Lien Information

  • play

    Auction Information

  • play

    Salvage Information and more

For a deeper understanding, a and a illuminate everything from accidents to original specifications. Got a 13-digit VIN? A could provide the answers you need. And for those elusive older models, the might just be the key to unlocking their secrets.

In short, having these reports not only increases the value of your classic car but also provides peace of mind during the buying process.

1963 Lincoln Continental Gallery

Photo of a 1963 Lincoln Continental
Photo of a 1963 Lincoln Continental
Photo of a 1963 Lincoln Continental
Photo of a 1963 Lincoln Continental
Photo of a 1963 Lincoln Continental
Photo of a 1963 Lincoln Continental
Photo of a 1963 Lincoln Continental
Photo of a 1963 Lincoln Continental
Photo of a 1963 Lincoln Continental
Photo of a 1963 Lincoln Continental
Photo of a 1963 Lincoln Continental
Photo of a 1963 Lincoln Continental
Photo of a 1963 Lincoln Continental
Photo of a 1963 Lincoln Continental

Classic Car VIN Lookup App |Now available on both Android and iOS!

At Classic Decoder, we believe that developing a mobile app is a great way to extend our classic car data solution hub to as many users as possible across the globe. Our app is built with users and precision in mind. It holds the key to unlocking the history and details of any retro car at your fingertips. It also comes with fascinating and user-friendly features that make it stand out from other mobile apps designed for this purpose.

The Classic Decoder app lets you decode and lookup any classic VIN in a flash. Access accurate vehicle information and history, make an informed decision faster, and buy and trade in classic cars with confidence.

Classic Decoder App

Download The Classic Decoder App now.

Some unique features include:

  • play
    Support all classic VIN lengths from 5 to 13 digits
  • play
    Support classic cars produced from 1910 – 1980
  • play
    Online Garage features – to add and manage your vehicles
  • play
    24/7 Customer Support
  • play
    Easy onboarding for first-time users

Explore Lincoln Continental from Other Years

Frequently Asked Questions

The 1963 Lincoln Continental? A real beauty, that one! It's instantly recognizable, you know? Think long, sleek lines; a distinctive, almost formal, presence on the road. Key features include its suicide doors – those rear-hinged back doors, a real head-turner in its day – the boxy shape, and its overall substantial feel; it's a big, impressive car. Some might say it looks like a floating box, but in a very good, very classy way. The overall design was, and remains, very striking. It's one of those cars that you just know when you see it.

Under the hood, you'll usually find a powerful 430 cubic inch V8; that's a pretty big engine, even by today's standards! Plenty of grunt there. There were some variations, though, depending on the trim and model – minor differences, nothing too dramatic. It wasn't like picking between a hamster and a racehorse, but you'll find they all pack a serious punch. This engine provided smooth, strong performance – exactly what you'd expect from a Lincoln of that era.

Oh, the ride! It's a completely different experience. Think of it like this: a modern car is a sports shoe, nimble and responsive. The '63 Continental is more like a well-cushioned armchair – comfortable, luxurious, and quite smooth. It soaks up bumps beautifully, especially compared to, say, a smaller car of the same period. Sure, it's not as agile as a newer car, but the sheer comfort is hard to match; it's truly a floating sensation. It's a gentler, more relaxed driving experience, if you catch my drift.

Like any classic car, especially one of this age, you should expect some potential issues. The electrical system can be a bit temperamental, sometimes; it's not uncommon to need some TLC there. Brake systems and the power steering are other areas that often need attention over time. They aren't necessarily major headaches, but preventative maintenance is your friend – and a good mechanic who understands these cars is absolutely essential. Think of it like regular check-ups at the doctor, only for your car.

Well, that's a tricky question; the price can vary wildly based on the condition, restoration quality, and mileage. A truly pristine, fully restored example can fetch a hefty price – think high five figures, potentially even more, depending on the market and the specific car. A car needing some work? Expect a lower price, naturally; you might find them for a bit less than that, but it all depends. You know, it's kinda like buying a house; the location and the condition make all the difference.

Finding parts can be a bit of a treasure hunt, it's true. But don't despair! There are dedicated classic car parts suppliers, online and otherwise, that specialize in these older vehicles. You can also check out online forums and communities – classic car enthusiasts are a very helpful bunch and often share sources. Some parts might require a bit of searching, but with some patience, you can find what you need; you just gotta put in the time, and maybe have a bit of luck!