Lincoln Lido: 1950–1951 luxurious hardtop coupe
Lincoln Lido — 1950–1951 Lincoln hardtop coupe, created in response to competitors' nearly pillar-less bodies. We delve into its history, engine, and what collectors need to know.
Lido in brief
The Lincoln Lido was introduced in July 1950 as Lincoln's answer to the 1949 General Motors hardtop bodies. It was a luxurious two-door coupe without a central pillar.
The Lido was part of the base Lincoln series, so it wasn't the top-tier Cosmopolitan. Today, it's valued as a rare post-war classic coupe.
Differences between 1950 and 1951
The 1950 Lido featured Lincoln's original post-war design with a longer wheelbase than the Mercury. The 1951 model received updated grilles and a revised rear end.
The 1951 Lido coupe was again offered with cloth or vinyl roof coverings, wheel skirts, chrome trim, and a custom interior.
Engine and transmission
The Lincoln Lido came with a V8 engine, approximately 5.5 litres (around 337 cubic inches) in capacity, producing about 150 HP. This was the first V8 in Lincoln cars after many years of V12 engines.
The transmission was manual or, in some versions and years, automatic. Check the specific car for exact specifications.
What to check when buying a Lincoln Lido
Most importantly, check the originality and body condition. Ensure it's genuinely a Lido (not a modified other model), that there's no rust, and that the original interior is intact.
Parts are worn, so a classic American car specialist's check is essential. Check the engine, brakes, suspension, and electrical system.
Trim levels
Trim levels were not divided into tiers; the Lido was a separate body style.
Lido kupė
1950–1951Hardtop coupe without a centre pillar.
- Hardtop body without a centre pillar
- Often with cloth or vinyl roof covering (1951).
- Unique interior
1950 and 1951 Lido comparison
| 1950 m. | 1951 m. | |
|---|---|---|
| Who it suits | Collectors seeking the earliest version | Those who appreciate the updated design |
| Engine | V8, around 5.5 litres | V8, around 5.5 litres |
| Appearance | Original design | Refreshed front end and rear |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | €€€ | €€€ |
Both years are collector's items. The key is not the year, but the car's originality and condition.
Pros
- Rare post-war American hardtop coupe
- Distinctive styling of the era
- The first Lincoln V8 era after the V12
- Good collector history
Cons
- Limited supply and hard to find
- Parts are specific
- Old model with rust risk
Frequently asked questions
When was the Lincoln Lido made?
1950–1951
What engine does the Lincoln Lido have?
V8, around 5.5 litres, around 150 bhp.
Was the Lido the most luxurious Lincoln?
No, the Lido was part of the base range; the higher class was the Cosmopolitan.
Updated 2026-10-21 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically





























