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1995 Lincoln Mark VIII
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Introduction - New/Revised This Year - Models: LSC/Base - Engine - Suspension - Options
Color Combos - Marketing - Competition - Warranty - VIN/VC Info - Other Facts
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Unlike the 1994 model, which saw only a few minor changes, the 1995 model features a number of interior and exterior changes, along with a new trim level option. The 'Base' model was joined mid-year by an LSC (Luxury Sport Coupe) model. Several changes were made to the interior of the car, specifically to the center console area. Early in production, Lincoln also added the 'InTech System' to the Mark VIII, which consisted of changes to the computer and engine to increase service intervals and incorporate a 'limp-home' mode to reduce breakdowns.
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Interior:
Exterior:
Functional/Other:
Discontinued This Year:
Interior:
Exterior:
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Base Model:
The 'Base' model of the Mark VIII was the highest selling model for the 1995 year. It offers the most exterior and interior color choices, and can be identified by a thin chrome strip embedded into the bodyside moldings and bumpers. Improvements over the 1994 model include a revised rear bumper with extended exhaust tips, the InTech system, and a revised center console with a new, larger radio. The automatic climate control module (EATC) now features an improved faceplate, with stronger buttons that are less likely to crack and have an improved feel (late availability). Most of the interior switchgear is now color-keyed to the interior color, which gives the interior a cleaner look. A new 10-disc CD changer is lighter than the previous model. A new wheel design lends to a sportier appearance.
Standard Features
Exterior: Body color front and rear bumpers with bright insert, bright exposed exhaust tips, decklid lock cover, flexible grille, front and rear gravel guards, body color door handles, low-profile headlights, cornering lamps, back-up lamps, limousine doors, power mirrors w/heat and memory recall, body-color side moldings with bright inserts, bright 'Lincoln' emblems front and rear, 16-inch lacy-spoke alloy wheels
Interior: Dual airbags, cigarette lighter-front and rear, center console w/real wood trim, ashtrays-1 front (lighted) and 2 rear, leather shifter, front storage bin, rear defrost on/off switch, vinyl door panels w/map pockets and integrated armrests, color-keyed switchgear, driver's side footrest, lockable lighted glovebox, rear seat heat ducts, 4-way adjustable head restraints, analog instrumentation (speedometer,tachometer,fuel, temperature), message center, leather seats w/6-way power, 3-user driver's seat memory, power lumbar, leather-wrapped steering wheel, tilt-steering wheel, dual lighted vanity sunvisors with secondary sunvisors
Functional: CFC-free air conditioning, 120-amp alternator, automatic power antenna, anti-theft alarm system, 72 amp/hr battery, four wheel disc brakes, antilock braking system (ABS), 'performance' camshaft, trunk cargo net, child restraint anchors, trunk release, fuel door release, delayed accessory power, 4.6L DOHC V8, dual exhaust, tubular exhaust headers, 18 gallon fuel tank, universal garage door opener, solar tinted glass, automatic headlamps, lighted entry system, keyless entry, underhood and trunk lights, power door locks, air-spring suspension system, all-season black sidewall tires, interval wipers
LSC Model:
The 'LSC' model was introduced midyear 1995. LSC model cars benefit from improvements made to the Base model, and were available in a limited number of exterior and interior color choices. Power ratings are increased to 290hp and 295 ft/lbs torque by using a true dual exhaust system. Luminarc headlights (High Intensity Discharge, or HID) were also part of the package (early LSCs used the standard halogen headlights). Sales numbers for the LSC are much lower than the Base model, with a production run limited to 5000 units.

Standard LSC Model Features: (Note: deviations from Base model standard equipment listed above. All Base model equipment also included on LSC unless otherwise noted)
Exterior: Body color front and rear bumpers (replaces body color front and rear bumpers with bright insert), LSC badge on lower right side of trunklid (replaces 'Lincoln' badge at same location), Body color side moldings (replaces body color side moldings with bright insert), Painted silver aluminum 10-spoke wheels (replaces lacy spoke aluminum wheels), Luminarc headlights (replaces low-profile headlights)
Interior: Embroidered LSC Floormats (replaces embroidered MARK VIII floormats), 'Euro' perforated leather seats (replaces standard leather seats)
Functional: Dual exhaust pipes (replaces standard exhaust), 3.27:1 rear axle (replaces 3.07:1 rear axle) Revised suspension settings.
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All 1995 Mark VIIIs come standard with a DOHC version of the modular 4.6 liter Ford V8. The engine has a rated output of 280 horsepower and 285 ft-lbs of torque in Base models, and 290 horsepower with 295 ft-lbs of torque in LSC models. The block and heads are made almost entirely of aluminum (iron cylinder sleeves are used), which weighs 64lbs less than the iron block used in other applications. This version of the 4.6L uses dual overhead camshaft heads and 'performance' cams.
The engine has many features aimed at increasing reliability and performance.
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All 1995 Mark VIIIs come equipped from the factory standard with a computer controlled air suspension. This system uses bladders filled with air rather than coil springs. The system is controlled by computer, and features load-leveling and speed-dependent ride height capabilities. The system is engineered to provide a smooth and supple ride and maintain sporting capabilities.
Some of the more important features of the Mark VIII suspension.
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Factory Installed Optional Equipment:
Like previous years, the Mark VIII has a long list of standard features, and a short list of options. Below is a listing of factory installed optional equipment. Factory installed means that these options were installed before the dealer received the vehicle. Options installed by the dealer upon arrival or customer request are dealer installed options, and are covered below.
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1995 Available Factory Options |
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Area |
Option |
Code |
MSRP |
Notes |
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Powertrain |
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California Emissions |
422 |
$100.00 |
NA w/High Altitude Use 428 |
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California Emissions NR |
423 |
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Sold in Cali for non-Cali Use |
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High Altitude Use |
428 |
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NA w/California Emissions 422 |
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High Altitude Use NR |
429 |
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Sold in High Alt for non-High Alt use |
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Tire/Wheels |
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Painted Directional |
64J |
$50.00 |
10-Spoke Version |
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Chrome Directional |
64U |
$845.00 |
20-Spoke Version |
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Audio |
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JBL Audio System |
916 |
$565.00 |
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CD Changer 10-Disc |
919 |
$815.00 |
Requires 916 JBL system |
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Other Options |
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LSC Package |
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$1,500.00 |
See Model Descriptions |
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Engine Block Heater |
41H |
$60.00 |
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Front License Plate Bracket |
153 |
- |
No Cost in req. states |
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Electrochromic Mirrors |
61A |
$215.00 |
Includes inside rearview and driver side mirrors |
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Power Moonroof |
13B |
$1,515.00 |
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Cellular Telephone |
516 |
$690.00 |
Requires 916 JBL system |
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Tri-Coat Paint |
- |
$300.00 |
See Color Charts |
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Traction Assist |
553 |
$215.00 |
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Miscellaneous |
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Predelivery |
361 |
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Predelivery w/Undercoat |
362 |
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Predelivery w/Rustproofing |
363 |
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COV Required |
79V |
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Local/State Ordinance Deviation |
931 |
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Off Standard Paint |
933 |
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Not available on Mark VIIIs. See Notes |
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MSRP prices from Standard Catalog of Ford 1903-2003, 3rd Ed. |
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Note: This information is from Ford and is dated June 1, 1994. |
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Because this is before production began, other options or changes might have occurred. |
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1995 Options Guide
Determine what options your car has using this visual guide.
Wheels: 1995 Models were available with three different styles of factory wheels. All are aluminum, and measure 16x7, with a +39mm offset and a 4.25inch bolt pattern. P225/60R16 97V was the only size tire available. The Lacy-spoke version was standard on Base model Mark VIIIs. The 20-spoke chrome version was available, however the painted 20-spokes were discontinued. 10-spoke painted wheels were standard on LSC cars.
JBL Audio System: The 'Audiophile' JBL sound system includes the following: 4 special woofers, 4 tweeters, special door panels with additional grilles and badges, a 6-channel amp, cellular phone prewire, special in-dash head unit. The amp which is 132 watts, is located in the trunk on the decklid shelf. The woofers measure 6"x8", and are specific to the JBL system. The woofers occupy the same locations as non-JBL systems. The front tweeters are mounted behind additional grilles in the doors, and the rear tweeters are mounted behind the existing grilles in the rear.
10-Disc CD Changer: Trunk mounted 10-Disc CD changer. Requires JBL audio system. Factory systems are mounted in the trunk on the left side. All factory CD changers have 'Ford Audio System' silkscreened onto the unit. The felt cover shown in the picture is also standard. Since the CD-changer is controlled through the radio, a special head unit is also fitted. Notice that the 4,5 and 6 preset buttons now have secondary functions.
Front Floormats: A no-cost option, front floormats came with every Mark VIII. They are color-keyed with the interior color of the car, and are fitted. Rear floormats were also standard. Base models have 'Mark VIII' woven into the mat. LSC cars have 'LSC' instead of Mark VIII. LSC floormats were only available as part of the LSC package.
Electrochromic Mirrors: Electrochromic mirrors are specially designed rearview mirrors that automatically dim when bright lights are shone into them. Only the driver's side mirror and interior center rearview mirror automatically dim. Passenger side mirrors are the same as in cars that are not equipped with electrochromic mirrors.
Power Moonroof: Factory moonroofs include a privacy shade. The moonroof also has a vent feature. The motor for the moonroof is in the rear-center of the roof. The standard overhead interior light is removed, and is replaced by a smaller unit housing the moonroof controls. The new unit is mounted between the sunvisors.
Cellular Telephone: At the time, cell phones were not a prolific as now, so this feature was not all that common. The cell phone available in 1995 is an analog version. A car equipped with the cell phone option also requires the JBL audio system. This is needed because the factory cell phone is voice activated, and uses the stereo system during calls. Two versions of the cell phone were available, one permanently mounted to the car, and a smaller, mobile version which was a dealer installed kit. Cell phone equipped cars have a small unique cell phone antenna mounted at the rear of the roof, right above the rear window seal.
Electronic Traction Assist: Using the ABS system, the car's computer senses wheel slip, and applies the brakes to reduce wheelspin. This system is only effective below 35 mph. The system is active by default, and can be switched off via the console mounted switch located to the right of the rear defrost switch. When the Traction control system is deactivated, 'OFF' will be displayed in amber on the lower half of the switch.
Tri-Coat Paint: Only available in Ivory Pearlescent or White Opalescent. Other colors were not available in 1995. This tri-coat painting process makes the car appear to be more than one color.
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Dealer Installed Optional Equipment:
Dealer installed options vary wildly. Some dealers add only minor things, such as adding aftermarket tire/wheel packages, while others add tonnau covers or complete ground effects packages. Below is Ford-Authorized optional dealer installed equipment for the 1995 Mark VIII.
Cellular 'Flip' Phone- This is a dealer-installed option that replaces the standard factory cell phone. All of the features of the factory phone are retained, but the phone is now able to be used outside of the car. The phone automatically recharges itself when it is placed in the armrest cradle.
Mudflaps- Specially designed for the Mark VIII. They are black in color and have MARK VIII in white letters written on them.
10-Disc CD-Changer- Two versions of this were available. Cars equipped with the JBL audio system could be equipped with the factory changer by the dealer. Non-JBL cars could have a changer installed that used FM-modulation to play the CDs on head units not equipped with CD changer controls.

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Interior/Exterior Color Combinations
Combination Availability:
Only certain color combinations were available on 1995 Mark VIIIs. Below is a chart detailing available color combinations.
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1995 Color Combinations |
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INTERIOR COLOR |
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EXTERIOR COLOR |
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Light Graphite |
Willow Green |
Ebony |
Ivory |
Saddle |
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Mark VIII (M91) |
CODE |
Z2 |
ZG |
ZJ |
ZQ |
ZS |
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Champagne CC MET |
DK |
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O |
O |
O |
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Evergreen Frost CC MET |
FE |
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O |
O |
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O |
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Berry Red CC MET |
FJ |
O |
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O |
O |
O |
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Garnet Red CC MET |
GF |
O |
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O |
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O |
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Ivory Pearlescent CC MET 3X |
HA |
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O |
O |
O |
O |
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Deep Jewel Green CC MET |
PA |
O |
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O |
O |
O |
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Med Willow Green CC MET |
SH |
O |
O |
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O |
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Chameleon Blue CC MET |
TA |
O |
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O |
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Charcoal Grey CC MET |
TR |
O |
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O |
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O |
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Silver Frost CC MET |
TS |
O |
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O |
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Midnight Black CC MET |
UA |
O |
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O |
O |
O |
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Performance White CC MET |
WT |
O |
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O |
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O |
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Dark Portofino Blue CC MET |
XB |
O |
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O |
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Portofino Blue CC MET |
XC |
O |
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O |
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Light Graphite |
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Ebony |
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Saddle |
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LSC (M91) |
CODE |
D2 |
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DJ |
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DY |
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Garnet Red Glaze CC MET |
GF |
O |
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O |
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O |
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Deep Jewel Green CC MET |
PA |
O |
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O |
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O |
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Ivory Pearlescent CC MET 3X |
HA |
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O |
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O |
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Midnight Black CC |
UA |
O |
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O |
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O |
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Dark Portofino Blue CC MET |
XB |
O |
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White Opalescent CC MET 3X |
WK |
O |
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O |
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O |
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Note: CC=Clearcoat, MET=Metallic, 3X=Tri-coat, O=Available color combo |
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This information is directly from Ford, and is dated June 1, 1994. |
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Since this is mid-production, variations of the above are possible. |
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Since 1993, Lincoln had not put a great deal of money into marketing the Mark VIII. In 1993 the Mark VIII came close to meeting Ford's expectations of sales. For 1994, sales slipped, falling far below the projected sales mark of 40,000 units. In 1995, the combination of only slight changes to the Mark and the appearance of a significantly cheaper competitor took its toll on the Mark, driving sales even lower. A new model, the Luxury Sport Coupe, or LSC, was added midyear to help the car appeal to a wider range of consumers. Advertising for the Mark was reduced yet again, with Lincoln concentrating on the all-new 1995 Continental. You can see some of these ads in the Advertising section. Magazine reviews can be found in the Magazine Archive.
Key Reasons to buy a Mark VIII:
For 1995, Lincoln considered these to be the key customer buying motivations, i.e. what customers are looking for when they consider a Mark VIII.
Sales Numbers: Lincoln sold 20,782 1995 model year Mark VIIIs. Calendar year sales for Lincoln: 150,814. Model year production for Lincoln: 166,249.
Published Performance Figures: Below are published performance figures from popular car magazines. It is important to remember that a lot of variables affect these figures, such as driver skill, launch techniques, weather conditions, elevation, test track conditions, and vehicle condition.
1995 1/2 Mark VIII LSC:
Car & Driver 10/95: 0-60: 6.6 sec 1/4mile: 15.1 sec@ N/A mph Top Speed: 122mph Braking 70-0: 178ft Skidpad(300ft): .81g
The Competition: The luxury coupe segment that the Mark VIII competes in has shrunk rapidly over the years, due to market trends favoring Sport/Utility vehicles. For 1995, the Mark had four major direct competitors: The new Buick Riviera, Cadillac Eldorado, and Lexus SC300/SC400 and Acura Legend coupe.
Cadillac Eldorado- The front-wheel drive Eldo saw many improvements in 1995. Both versions of the Northstar V8 gain 5 hp. The exterior has been refreshed with a new style grille. Small revisions are made to the road sensing suspension. A new feature called the Integrated Chassis Control System is added. Cadillac sold 22,562 1995 model-year Eldos.
Sales Consultants were trained to point out the following advantages the Mark VIII has over the Eldorado.
Sales Consultants were also trained to be aware of the advantages the Eldorado has over the Mark VIII.
Published Performance Figures:
Motor Trend: 0-60: 6.6 seconds 1/4 mile: 14.8 seconds @ 96.5 mph (1995 ETC Model)
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Major Specifications Comparison For 1995 |
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Specification |
Mark VIII |
Cadillac Eldorado |
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Base Price |
$40,300 |
$38,220 |
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Engine Type |
DOHC V8 |
DOHC V8 |
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Engine Size |
4.6L |
4.6L |
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Horsepower |
280@5500rpm |
275@5600rpm |
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290@5700rpm |
300@6000rpm |
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Torque |
285@4500rpm |
300@4000rpm |
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295@4500rpm |
295@4400rpm |
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Fuel Economy |
18 / 26 |
16 / 25 |
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Interior Volume |
97.3 Cu. Ft |
100 Cu. Ft |
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Trunk Space |
14.4 Cu. Ft |
15.3 Cu. Ft |
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Transmission |
4-sp auto |
4-sp auto |
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Seating Capacity |
5 |
5 |
Buick Riviera- A new competitor this year, the Riviera is Buick's flagship model. Built on the same basic platform as the Oldsmobile Aroura, The Buick has a remarkably stiff chassis, is front wheel drive, and has dramatic new styling. The Buick is designed to provide a more traditional American luxury feel than the Mark VIII, or Lexus SC300/400. Buick sold 25,536 1995 model-year Rivieras.
Sales Consultants were trained to point out the following advantages the Mark VIII has over the Riviera.
Sales Consultants were also trained to be aware of the advantages the Riviera has over the Mark VIII.
Published Performance Figures:
Motor Trend: 0-60: 7.8 seconds 1/4 mile: 15.9 seconds @ 88.7 mph (1995 supercharged model)
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Major Specifications Comparison For 1995 |
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Specification |
Mark VIII |
Buick Riviera |
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Base Price |
$40,300 |
$28,195 |
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Engine Type |
DOHC V8 |
OHV V6 |
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Engine Size |
4.6L |
3.8L |
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Horsepower |
280@5500rpm |
205@5200rpm |
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290@5750rpm |
225@5200rpm |
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Torque |
285@4500rpm |
230@4000rpm |
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295@4500rpm |
275@4000rpm |
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Fuel Economy |
18 / 26 |
19 / 29 |
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Interior Volume |
97.3 Cu. Ft |
99.6 Cu. Ft |
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Trunk Space |
14.4 Cu. Ft |
17.4 Cu. Ft |
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Transmission |
4-sp auto |
4-sp auto |
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Seating Capacity |
5 |
5 or 6 |
Lexus SC400/SC300- Lexus has steadily improved it's sporty luxury coupes since their introduction for 1992. The cars feature new grilles, taillight setups, and wheel designs. Sections of the car have been changed to meet 1997 federal crash test requirements. The cheaper, less powerful I-6 equipped SC300 gains 16-inch wheels as standard equipment. Lexus sold 8,312 1995 model-year SC300/400s.
Sales Consultants were trained to point out the following advantages the Mark VIII has over the SC400.
Sales Consultants were also trained to be aware of the advantages the SC400 has over the Mark VIII.
Published Performance Figures:
Motor Trend: 0-60: 7.0 seconds 1/4 mile: 15.2 seconds @ 93.7 mph (1995 model)
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Major Specifications Comparison For 1995 |
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Specification |
Mark VIII |
Lexus SC400 |
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Base Price |
$40,300 |
$49,400 |
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Engine Type |
DOHC V8 |
DOHC V8 |
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Engine Size |
4.6L |
4.0L |
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Horsepower |
280@5500rpm |
250@5300rpm |
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290@5750rpm |
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Torque |
285@4500rpm |
260@4500rpm |
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295@4500rpm |
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Fuel Economy |
18 / 26 |
18 / 23 |
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Interior Volume |
97.3 Cu. Ft |
84.7 Cu. Ft |
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Trunk Space |
14.4 Cu. Ft |
9.3 Cu. Ft |
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Transmission |
4-sp auto |
4-sp auto |
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Seating Capacity |
5 |
4 |
Acura Legend Coupe: For its last year, the Legend coupe saw no changes except a price hike. The car is scheduled to be replaced by an-all new model, the Acura TL, in 1997.
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Other Information
All 1995 Lincolns came with 'The Lincoln Commitment', a comprehensive warranty/dealer service plan. Coverages were as follows:
Service Loaner- The dealer will provide a service loaner, or a rental car is covered for $30 a day up to five days.
Roadside Service Assistance- Towing, jump-starting, lock-out service, tire changing. Service is free for four years after delivery of the car.
Emergency Travel Expense Reimbursement- If the car becomes disabled more than 100 miles from home, Lincoln would reimburse travel expenses such as meals, lodging, and car rentals up to $1,000.
Destination Assistance- If your Lincoln is in an accident, Lincoln will reimburse up to $250 in travel expenses to reach your immediate destination.
Trip Planning Service- Lincoln provides maps and trip routings custom made for your trip. Requires advanced notice.
QUEST Membership- Gives you discounts at hotels and restaurants that are a part of the QUEST network.
Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty- 4 years, 50,000 miles. Includes a five-year corrosion warranty.
Understanding Your VIN and Vehicle Certification Label:
There are two major forms of vehicle identification on Mark VIIIs. The VIN number is a 17 digit number that is unique to each car, and is visible from outside the car, through the windshield in front of the driver. The VIN number can tell you the model year, engine, body type, assembly plant and serial number of the car. The other is a vehicle certification sticker, which has the VIN, along with several other tidbits of information, such as interior and exterior colors, axle, transmission, radio, and intended sales region. To see examples of VINs and VC stickers along with an explaination for each, click on the links below:
Vehicle Certification identification
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