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Lincoln Capri: 1952–1959 generations, engines, and body styles
The Lincoln Capri was a large luxury car produced by Lincoln from 1952 to 1959, one of the first post-war models to feature a modern V8 engine. In this article, we'll look at its three generations, engine lineup, body styles, and what to know when hunting for this classic car.
Capri in brief
The Lincoln Capri was named after the Italian island in the Bay of Naples. In 1952, it became a separate model line—initially the top-of-the-line Lincoln, later (from 1956) the main model, with the Premiere above it. The Capri was sold until 1959, and in 1961 it was replaced by the new-design Lincoln Continental.
This is a typical large American car from the 1950s, combining a spacious interior, a powerful V8 engine, and the design excesses of the era. In Lithuania, this model is very rare, so it's often valued as a collector's item or showpiece.
Which generation to choose
The first generation (1952–1955) had a more restrained, streamlined look and was offered as a two-door hardtop, convertible, and four-door sedan. This was the most subdued-looking generation, and the 1955 model got a more powerful engine.
The second generation (1956–1957) adopted a more expressive, lower design inspired by the space-age style of the time, and the 1957 update brought more prominent tailfins. The convertible was dropped from the lineup, but a four-door hardtop Landau version was added in 1957.
The third generation (1958–1959) is a very large car built on a new unibody construction. It measured around 5.8 meters in length, and its design was considered overly extravagant even by the standards of the time. Some appreciate this car for its bold character, but its repairs are more complex.
Engines and transmissions
From 1952 to 1954, a 317 cubic inch (around 5.2-litre) Lincoln Y-block V8 was fitted, with the 1952 Popular Mechanics test car producing around 160hp. In 1955, the capacity was increased to 341 cubic inches (around 5.6 litres), with power rising to around 225hp; this engine was used for just one year.
In 1956, a 368 cubic inch (around 6.0-litre) engine arrived, producing around 285hp, and in 1957, around 300hp. For 1958–1959, the new unibody construction featured a massive 430 cubic inch (around 7.0-litre) MEL V8 with roughly 375hp.
Initially, only the four-speed GM Hydra-Matic automatic transmission was offered, with a three-speed Ford Turbo-Drive arriving in 1955.
What to check when buying a Lincoln Capri
The most important thing is the body condition. Check for rust on the sills, undersides of the wings, floor and boot, and be particularly thorough with the unibody of the third generation, as repairs are more complex than with a body-on-frame design.
The engine should start without prolonged cranking and run without smoke, while the automatic transmission should shift smoothly. It's worth discussing parts availability and repair options with a Lincoln classic car club or specialists.
Note the originality: colour schemes, chrome trim and interior materials. Refreshed or modified cars may be less valuable than those kept in their original condition.
Trim levels
Names and equipment vary by market and year; we list the versions most commonly found in Europe.
Capri hardtopas (dvidurė kupė)
1952–1959Popular two-door body without a central roof pillar.
- Two-door body without a central roof pillar
- Luxurious interior for its time
- Sportier look than the sedan
Capri kabrioletas
1952–1955Open body, offered only once.
- Folding roof
- Collectible car with higher value
- Discontinued after 1955
Capri keturdurė (sedanas)
1952–1959Four-door sedan body for the family.
- More space for passengers
- Easier access to the rear seats
- More practical than a two-door body
Capri Landau
1957–1959The four-door 'Landau' version, introduced in 1957
- The four-door hardtop variant
- Available from the end of the second generation
- In 1958, it accounted for roughly half of all Capri sales
Comparing the generations
| I karta (1952–1955) | II karta (1956–1957) | III karta (1958–1959) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | For enthusiasts of classic style | For those who love the bold 1950s design | For lovers of extravagant size and design |
| Engine | 317 and 341 cubic inch V8 | 368 cubic inch V8 | 430 kub. col. V8 (approx. 375 hp) |
| Body Style | Convertible | Convertible | Unibody construction |
| Convertible | Available | Not offered | Not offered |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | Mid-range | Mid-range | High-end |
For most buyers, the best choice is the first generation: simpler and easier to maintain. The third generation is the most distinctive but also the most complex.
Pros
- Classic American luxury
- Powerful V8 engine and spacious interior
- Wide range of body styles (coupe, convertible, sedan)
- Simpler first-generation technology
Cons
- Very large size and fuel consumption
- Parts can be hard to find
- Corrosion and complex bodywork repairs, especially on third-gen models
Frequently asked questions
How many years was the Lincoln Capri produced?
The Capri was produced from 1952 to 1959, across three generations.
How does the Capri differ from the Cosmopolitan?
The Cosmopolitan was the earlier model, produced from 1949. In 1952, the Capri became the luxury series, eventually replacing the Cosmopolitan as the main 'Lincoln' line.
Does the Lincoln Capri have anything in common with the Ford Capri?
Just the name. Later, 'Ford' in Europe named its sporty coupe the Capri, but it's a completely different car.
Updated 2026-10-21 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
