1996 Lincoln Mark VIII

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Introduction  -  New/Revised This Year  -  Models: DA/ LSC/Base  -  Engine  -  Suspension  -  Options

Color Combos  -  Marketing  -  Competition  -  Warranty  -  VIN/VC Info  -  Other Facts

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 Introduction

The final year of the Generation One styling, 1996 saw few changes to the Mark VIII. The 'Base' model was once again joined by the LSC model.  New this year was the 'Diamond Anniversary' Edition, which was added to celebrate Lincoln's 75^th anniversary. The Diamond Anniversary package was also available on the Town Car and Continental.

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New/Revised This Year

Interior:

• Soft webbing seatbelts
• Rear seat center armrest
• Revised EATC Faceplate
• Compass module relocated behind rearview mirror
• New Color Choice: Cypress

Exterior:

• '32V InTech V8' subscript added to 'MarkVIII' badge on rear decklid on all cars
• New-style Chrome Directional Wheels (late availability)
• New Color: Cypress Gold Frost CC MET
• New Color: Light Saddle CC MET
• New Color: Cordovan CC MET
• New Color: Bright Toreador Red Tinted CC MET
• New Color: Desert Violet CC MET
• New Color: Dark Baltic Blue CC MET
• New Color: Medium Wedgewood Blue CC MET
• New Color: Willow Green Frost CC MET

Functional:

• EEC-V Engine Controls
• OBD-II Diagnostics
• Larger brake rotors
• Improved (deeper) transmission pan with new filter design.

Discontinued This Year:

• Interior Color: Willow Green
• Exterior Color: Champagne CC MET
• Exterior Color: Evergreen Frost CC MET
• Exterior Color: Garnet Red Glaze CC MET
• Exterior Color: Deep Jewel Green CC MET
• Exterior Color: Dark Portofino Blue CC MET
• Exterior Color: Berry Red CC MET

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 Models Available This Year

Base Model:

    The 'Base' model of the Mark VIII was the highest selling model for the 1996 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 1995 model are minimal, and include some new exterior colors and a new interior color.  A leather covered rear armrest is now available. The compass module has been relocated from the trunk shelf to behind the center rearview mirror. The automatic climate control module (EATC) now features a new faceplate, with larger buttons and smaller display screen, creating a vastly improved appearance. Soft webbing seatbelts are now used, improving comfort for all passengers. Federally mandated clean air acts required changes to be made to engine controls, so engine control software was upgraded, and is now know as EEC-V. EEC-V performs 25 percent more functions than EEC-IV at a much higher speed. On-Board Diagnostics level II (OBD-II) is also included. A minor change found on late 1995 models was on the rear trunklid of the car, with '32V InTech V8' joining the Mark VIII badge.

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, heated outside mirrors

Interior:  Dual airbags, rear center armrest, 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, which was introduced midyear 1995, was also available in 1996. LSC model cars benefit from the same improvements made to the Base model, and were available in a limited number of exterior and interior color choices. Power ratings once again are 290hp and 295 ft/lbs torque.  Luminarc headlights are now standard on every LSC model. Sales numbers for the LSC are much lower than the Base model. Two LSC packages were offered in 1996, and include the following upgrades/changes.

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.

LSC Feature Model: Includes all of the above, and adds new-for-1996 chrome 10-spoke wheels (option 64A). Late availability.

Diamond Anniversary Edition:

    To celebrate its 75th birthday, Lincoln released Diamond Anniversary editions of all three 1996 model Lincolns. The Mark VIII edition was only available in two colors, Silver Frost or Cordovan. The DA edition was Lincoln's 'Feature Car' for this year. DA cars are all heavily equipped, with many standard features that are optional on the Base and LSC models. Owners were also given a personalized nameplate featuring a Waterford crystal. Production numbers for the Diamond Anniversary editions are unknown, but given the poor overall sales of the Mark VIII in 1996, the number must be small.

Standard Diamond Anniversary Edition Features: (Note: deviations from Base model standard equipment listed above. All Base model equipment also included on Diamond Anniversary unless otherwise noted)

 Exterior: 10-spoke painted aluminum wheels (replaces lacy spoke aluminum wheels), 'Diamond Anniversary Edition' badges engraved into rear quarter windows, Cordovan or Silver Frost paint

Interior: Diamond Anniversary Floormats (replaces MARK VIII floormats), Special leather seatbacks with red accent striping (replaces standard leather seats), JBL sound system (replaces high-level sound system, optional equipment on Base and LSC models), Cellular phone (optional on Base and LSC models), Traction control (optional on Base and LSC models),

Functional: N/A - NOTE: Lincoln literature states that the factory moonroof was a standard feature of the DA package. At least one DA has been spotted without a factory moonroof.

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The Engine

All 1996 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.

• The block is deepskirted, which means that the block walls extend three inches beyond the centerline of the crankshaft, which strengthens the block.
• Six-bolt, cross-bolted main bearing caps are used, with four vertical bolts and two horizontal bolts. This increases the engine's ability to withstand deflection and distortion at higher RPMs.
• The connecting rods are powder-forged, a process that helps better balance the rods, which makes the engine operate smoother and reach higher RPMs. The rods are also manufactured as one piece, then purposefully 'cracked' apart in such a way that prevents them from being installed incorrectly. 
• The cylinder heads are made out of aluminum, which warms and cools at the same rate as the block, which helps the head gaskets last longer. The head gaskets are also dual beaded rather than single bead like most engines. Extra long head bolts also help prevent gasket leaks.
• The camshafts are chain-driven, as opposed to the more commonly used belt-drive. Since the timing chains rarely break and are fitted with tensioners, they do not require service, and take up less space.
• Roller-finger cam followers feature bearings between the cam lobes and followers to help reduce friction, increasing maximum RPM. Hydraulic lash adjusters remove the need for adjustments during servicing.
• A single serpentine belt is used to drive all engine accessories, which cuts down on complexity. The belt has a projected life of 100,000 miles.
• DOHC heads. DOHC heads allow for the use of four-valves-per-cylinder, with two intake and two exhaust valves. This increases intake valve area by 40%, and exhaust valve area by 35%. DOHC heads also allow for the valves to be angled in the head for optimum placement. The spark plug's are also mounted in the center of the combustion chamber. By design, OHC engines are capable of reaching much higher maximum RPM than conventional pushrod designs.
• Dual-runner intake manifold with intake-manifold runner control (IMRC). The intake manifold has 16 intake runners, rather than eight. Each cylinder has two runners, which are of unequal length. The engine uses the longer of the two runners below 3200 RPM, which helps create more torque. Above 3200 RPMs, the IMRC opens butterfly valves obstructing the shorter runners. This increases airflow, resulting in more power in the upper RPM range. This system was developed to reduce the tendency of four-valve engines to have 'peaky' power delivery.
• Twin 55mm throttle plates are used, and are staged in such a way to reach wide open throttle (WOT) together
• Tubular exhaust headers are used to aid in exhaust breathing.
• The oil pan has a plastic laminate sandwiched between two layers of steel to help reduce engine noise levels.
• Electronic distributor-less ignition system (EDIS).  This system eliminates a the need to service the distributor.
• The Cobra version of the 32v V8 has over 200 parts that are different than those found in the Mark VIII
• Ford claims 272 ft.-lbs at 2,000 rpms.
• The engine block is manufactured by Teksid SpA, a subsidiary of Fiat SpA and as such are manufactured in Turin, Italy. This is the saem company that makes engines for Ferrari.

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The Suspension System

All 1996 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.

• The computer, using sensors located throughout the car, automatically adds or removes air from the airbags to level out the car front-to-back and side-to-side. This feature keeps the car level regardless of how much weight is in the trunk and how many passengers are inside. The side-by-side feature is disabled when body roll is detected.
• One of the most publicized features of the Mark VIII is the lowering ability of the suspension. When highway speeds are reached, the computer vents the suspension to drop the car about 8/10ths of an inch. If the computer senses that the car has maintained 55-64 mph for 30 to 45 seconds, it will begin to vent the suspension. If 65 mph is reached, the computer will vent the suspension without waiting the 30-45 seconds. By dropping the suspension, drag is lowered (cd drops to .32), wind noise is reduced, and the car becomes more stable.
• The Mark uses a independent rear suspension (IRS) setup. This aids in cornering and improves ride comfort and control. The rear suspension is mounted on its own subframe, which is in turn isolated from the rest of the body by rubber mounts.
• Saving weight in the suspension was a priority. The differential pumpkin and lower arms are made of aluminum, and the front and rear sway bars are hollow.

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Options

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.

1996 Options Guide

    Determine what options your car has using this visual guide.

Wheels:    1996 Models were available with four 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 until the 10-Spoke chrome version became available. 10-Spoke painted wheels were standard on LSC cars with chromed versions as an option. 10-Spoke chrome was standard on Diamond Anniversary models.

           

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, and Diamond Anniversary Edition cars have 'Diamond Anniversary' written in red. LSC floormats were only available as part of the LSC package. Diamond Anniversary floormats were only available as part of the 75th Anniversary 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 1996 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 Opal Opalescent. Other colors were not available in 1996.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 1996 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.



6-Disc CD-Changer-    Available only as a dealer-installed option.

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Interior/Exterior Color Combinations

Combination Availability:

        Only certain color combinations were available on 1996 Mark VIIIs. Below is a chart detailing available color combinations.

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1996 Marketing

    Since 1993, Lincoln had not put a great deal of money into marketing the Mark VIII.  Since the sales of the Mark VIII had reached very low levels by the end of 1995, very little marketing effort was put into the Mark VIII in 1996. Spy photos of the freshened 1997 model appearing in automotive magazines did not help this. Print advertisements were appearing even less frequently in automotive magazines or national periodicals than in 1995. Ford-sponsored television ads were no longer aired, and most Mark VIII appearances were in dealer ads touting rebates and other incentives. Sales consultants were left to rely on word-of-mouth referrals, bargain hunters, and repeat buyers. You can see some of these ads in the Advertising section. Magazine reviews can be found in the Magazine Archive.

1996 Mark VIII Demographics:

Median Age: 56 years
Median Annual Income: $100,000
Male/Female: 79%/21%
College-educated: 55%

The majority hold managerial, professional or technical positions, and have read about the Mark VIII in enthusiast magazines. Sales Consultants should be prepared to answer performance-oriented questions. The LSC model attracts younger buyers in the 45-50 year age group.

Key Reasons to buy a Mark VIII:

For 1996, Lincoln considered these to be the key customer buying motivations, i.e. what customers are looking for when they consider a Mark VIII.

Performance/Handling
Comfort/Convenience
Quality
Durability/Reliability
Safety/Security

Sales Numbers: Lincoln sold 13,625 1996 model year Mark VIIIs. Calendar year sales for Lincoln: 145,035. Model year sales for Lincoln: 141,080.

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.

1996 Mark VIII LSC:

AutoWeek 11/95:  0-60: 6.96 sec    1/4mile: 15.24 sec@ 93.8 mph    Top Speed: N/Amph    Braking 60-0: 128ft    Skidpad(300ft): N/Ag

Motor Trend 11/95: 0-60: 7.2 sec    1/4mile: 15.4 sec@ 93.3 mph    Top Speed: N/Amph    Braking 60-0: 122ft    Skidpad(300ft): .84g

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 1996, the Mark had three major direct competitors: The Buick Riviera, Cadillac Eldorado, and Lexus SC300/SC400. The Acura Legend coupe was discontinued for 1996.

Cadillac Eldorado-    The front-wheel drive Eldo saw many improvements in 1996. Daytime running lamps were added. The interior was redesigned and had a new seat design, a traction control ON/OFF switch, and standard cell phone prewiring. Engine improvements included revised electronic fuel injection and the use of 100,000-mile engine coolant.

   

Sales Consultants were trained to point out the following advantages the Mark VIII has over the Eldorado.

• The Mark VIII's rear-wheel drive setup does not suffer from the torque-steer effects of the Eldo's front-wheel drive setup.
• The Mark VIII has a smaller turning diameter, making the car easier to maneuver around in parking lots and tight spaces.
• The brakes used on the Mark VIII have 14 percent greater swept area, for improved braking performance.
• Better fuel economy, both on the highway and in the city. Mark VIII - 18/26, Eldorado 16/25.
• The Eldorado's Road-sensing Suspension does not adjust vehicle ride height at highway speeds.
• The 4.6L engine in the Mark VIII is more powerful, at a lower RPM than the Northstar in the Eldorado: 280@5500  vs 275@5600.
• The Mark VIII can tow twice as much as the Eldorado (2000lbs vs 1000lbs).
• Ride comfort was better, since the Mark has a 5-inch longer wheelbase.
• The Eldorado shares some of its bodypanels with the 4-door Seville, leading to a less-distinctive appearance.

Sales Consultants were also trained to be aware of the advantages the Eldorado has over the Mark VIII.

The Eldo has standard traction control. TC is optional on base and LSC model Marks.
The Front-wheel drive setup contributes to the larger interior room of the Eldo.
The Northstar system makes more torque at a lower RPM than the InTech system (300@4000 vs 285/295@4500).
The Eldo has a slightly lower base price (difference of $54).
The optional Northstar engine is more powerful than the optional Mark VIII engine.
The Eldo has a larger trunk with almost 1 cu.ft. more space, and a much more 'useable' shape.

Published Performance Figures:

Motor Trend:    0-60: 6.6 seconds    1/4 mile:  14.8 seconds @ 96.5 mph (1995 ETC Model)

Buick Riviera-    For it's second year, Buick made many improvements to the Riviera. A new, supercharged 'Series II' 3.8L V6 engine is now an option. Wood was added to the center console, Interior lighting was revised, and an in dash CD changer has become standard. A new feature is lockout protection on both door locks. The drivetrain has been improved with the addition of 100,000-mile spark plugs and coolant.

       

Sales Consultants were trained to point out the following advantages the Mark VIII has over the Riviera.

• The Mark VIII's rear-wheel drive setup does not suffer from the torque-steer effects of the Riviera's front-wheel drive setup.
• The Mark VIII has a smaller turning diameter, making the car easier to maneuver around in parking lots and tight spaces.
• The brakes used on the Mark VIII have 14 percent greater swept area, for improved braking performance.
• The engine in the Mark VIII is larger, smoother and more powerful than the engine in the Riviera.
• The Mark has leather seats as standard equipment.
• The Mark has a computer-controlled air suspension system.
• The Mark VIII has a 4yr/50,000 mile warranty, whereas the Riviera has a 3yr/36,000 mile warranty.
• The Mark VIII can tow twice as much as the Riviera (2000lbs vs 1000lbs).

Sales Consultants were also trained to be aware of the advantages the Riviera has over the Mark VIII.

The Riviera has more interior room.
The Riviera gets better gas mileage both city and highway, both with and without the supercharger.
A well equipped Riviera SE stickered for around $32,000, About $8,000 less than the base model Mark.
The Riviera can be equipped to hold six passengers or five.
3 cubic feet more trunk space.

Published Performance Figures:

Motor Trend:    0-60: 7.8 seconds    1/4 mile:  15.9 seconds @ 88.7 mph (1995 supercharged model)

Lexus SC300-    Lexus has steadily improved it's sporty luxury coupes since their introduction for 1992. SC300 features that are new for '96 include a multi-function keyless entry system, one-touch moonroof, cell phone prewire, and an integrated cell phone antenna. Self-dimming mirrors and chrome plated wheels are now available as options.

   

Sales Consultants were trained to point out the following advantages the Mark VIII has over the SC300.

With 15 percent more passenger space, the Mark VIII is noticeably more spacious inside for all passengers.
The Mark VIII has 55 percent more luggage space.
The Mark VIII's V8 is both more powerful and more fuel efficient than the SC300's Inline six.
The Mark VIII has a computer-controlled suspension with self-leveling features, which is not available on the SC300.
The Mark VIII's sticker price is about $3,000 less than the SC300.

Sales Consultants were also trained to be aware of the advantages the SC300 has over the Mark VIII.

The SC300 is about 200 pounds lighter than the Mark, and is available with a five-speed manual transmission.

Published Performance Figures:

Motor Trend:    0-60: 7.8 seconds    1/4 mile:  15.8 seconds @ 91.1 mph (1992 model)