The 2004 Lincoln Mark X concept car set for auction

Two decades ago, the automotive industry saw a surge in retro design, a trend that never truly went away. In 2004, Ford and Lincoln toyed with the idea of reviving the Thunderbird by introducing the Lincoln Mark X concept car. This unique vehicle, which never made it to production, offers a rare opportunity for automotive enthusiasts to own a piece of automotive history.

At first glance, the Mark X may not appear to have any connection to the Thunderbird, especially when the convertible top is down. However, upon closer inspection, the design cues borrowed from the ’60s Continentals become more evident. The wide chrome grille, integrated headlights, slender rear taillights, and distinctive chrome trim all pay homage to the retro styling of classic Lincoln models. Additionally, the Mark X features a power retractable hardtop with glass panels in the roof, a trendy feature at the time.

While the exterior design of the Lincoln Mark X may resemble the Thunderbird, underneath the skin, it is essentially a rebadged version of the T-Bird. Sharing the same platform, powertrain, and suspension components, the Mark X boasts a 280-horsepower 3.9-liter V8 engine paired with a five-speed automatic transmission, delivering a performance similar to its Thunderbird counterpart.

The interior of the Mark X departs from the Thunderbird’s design, showcasing a retro dual cowl dashboard that later influenced other Lincoln models like the Zephyr, Navigator, Aviator, and MKX. Despite its unique features and potential for production, the Mark X concept never received the green light for mass production, leaving this single example as a rare gem for collectors and automotive enthusiasts.

With the upcoming auction of the Lincoln Mark X at Mecum’s Glendale auction on March 8, automotive aficionados have the chance to own a piece of automotive history. While the concept car remains drivable due to its Thunderbird powertrain and chassis, it cannot be registered for on-road use due to its concept car status. As a one-of-a-kind vehicle with intact interior and original 19-inch wheels, the Lincoln Mark X is expected to fetch a premium price at auction, surpassing the value of a typical Thunderbird. Don’t miss the opportunity to own this unique piece of automotive history.