If you think this is the first time a '93 Lincoln Mark VIII has been in PHR, then you would be mistaken. The Jan. '93 issue had the crew of PHR taking a new Mark VIII from the showroom, and with a few tweaks, mainly for safety, run the Lincoln to a top speed of over 181 mph on the salt flats of Bonneville. Even today that's considered fast, but back then it was a record-setting feat. When this car hit the market it was expensive and its smooth aerodynamic lines just made it look right. Bad news for those that bought it new, but great news for you is that depreciation has hit the sleek Lincoln hard. With cars in the nicest condition going for about $9,000 and basket cases being almost given away, you can pick up a good condition example for less than $4,000. Considering what they cost when new, it is a heck of deal. Since they are only 12 years old you will not have to worry about too much rust and most of the replacement parts are still available.
This car was born sleek, so even things like shaving the door handles are not necessary. The car came from the factory with an air suspension, so with a little work you can drop the '93 down a good 4 inches. Toss on some 18- or 19-inch wheels that are low on bling, and people will think you're cruising some new prototype out of Detroit. For performance, the factory Intec four-valve mod motor is a great staring point. Making 280 hp in stock form, the four-valve mod motor is mod-friendly, with many aftermarket parts (including blowers, cams, stroker kits, and cylinder heads) developed for its younger brother in the '96-02 Mustang Cobra. Even the four-speed automatic has heavy-hitter proponents in the aftermarket industry; just pick up a copy of sister publication Muscle Mustangs & Fast Fords for a plethora of powertrain sources. Either way, we can guarantee that you will most likely never see another one at the track or cruise night. Being different has a coolness factor all its own.
