Lincoln

Released in April 1968 as an early 1969 model, the Continental Mark III was developed by Ford as its first flagship vehicle since the discontinuation of the 1956-1957 Mark II. Marketed as a Continental (not as a Lincoln) and intended as a direct competitor for the Cadillac Eldorado, the introduction of the Mark III launched a brand rivalry that would last for the next three decades. The revived Mark III nomenclature not only aligned the vehicle as successor to the Mark II, but downplayed the existence of the Lincoln-based Mark III, IV, and V of 1958–1960. One of the most technologically advanced vehicles of its time, the Mark III was fitted with power windows, locks, and seats, and optional automatic climate control (standard in 1971). Alongside becoming the first American-brand vehicle sold with radial tires as standard equipment (in 1970), the Mark III was offered with "Sure-Track", a primitive form of anti-lock braking (ABS) as an option for 1969, becoming standard in 1970. The 1972 Mark IV retained many design elements from the Mark III, but introduced a softer, more rounded body style.