The 1998 Lincoln Town Car is a full-size luxury sedan, part of a lineage known for its expansive interior and smooth ride. Produced from 1981 through 2011, the 1998 model falls within the Panther platform's third generation. Key trims typically included the Executive, Signature, and Cartier. Known for its plush comfort and quiet cabin, it remains popular for chauffeuring and for those seeking a relaxed, American-style luxury experience.
The Good
The 1998 Town Car excels in supreme ride comfort and a spacious, quiet interior, appealing to comfort-seekers. Its robust V8 engine offers smooth power, while its traditional design evokes a sense of classic American luxury. Practically, it offers good value for its size and comfort, making it a solid choice for relaxed cruising.
The Bad
Potential owners should watch out for common issues such as air suspension problems, potential coolant leaks from intake manifolds, and electrical gremlins. Interior wear and tear, especially on seats and dashboard components, is also frequently noted. Fuel economy is not a strong suit.
1998 Lincoln Town Car: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: The 1998 Lincoln Town Car was primarily equipped with a 4.6L V8 engine.
- Horsepower: This engine typically produced around 205 horsepower.
- Fuel Economy: Expect fuel economy in the range of 15-17 MPG city and 22-24 MPG highway, varying slightly by configuration.
- 0-60 Times: Acceleration figures were generally in the 9-10 second range, reflecting its focus on comfort over sportiness.
- Towing Capacity: While not designed for heavy towing, it could manage light loads with appropriate equipment, though specific ratings are not commonly emphasized.
- Key Trims and Features:
- Executive: The base trim, still offering a comfortable ride and essential luxury features.
- Signature Series: Added features like upgraded leather seating, power-adjustable pedals, dual-zone climate control, and enhanced sound systems.
- Cartier: The top-tier trim, which included all Signature features plus premium leather, wood interior trim, and often advanced audio options and unique badging.
- Common Features Across Trims: Air suspension (rear), cruise control, power windows and locks, automatic climate control, and a spacious interior were standard or widely available.
1998 Lincoln Town Car Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1998 |
| Make | Lincoln |
| Model | Town Car |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | HAZELWOOD (ST. LOUIS) |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 4.6L V8 |
| Engine Size | 4.6L |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | 2 Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
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What Problems Does the 1998 Lincoln Town Car Have?
The 1998 Lincoln Town Car, while generally a durable vehicle, has some commonly reported issues. One of the most frequent concerns revolves around the rear air suspension system. Leaks in the air springs or compressor failure can lead to a sagging rear end, affecting ride height and comfort. This can be an expensive repair if not caught early.
Another recurring problem is related to the intake manifold gasket, which can develop coolant leaks over time. This can lead to overheating and potential engine damage if left unaddressed. While not specific to the 1998 model year, older vehicles within this generation can exhibit these issues.
Electrical gremlins are also occasionally reported, affecting things like power windows, door locks, and the instrument cluster. These can be challenging to diagnose and fix. The transmission, typically the 4R70W, is generally robust but can suffer from solenoid issues or torque converter problems with high mileage or neglected maintenance.
Body-wise, rust can be a concern in areas with harsh winters, particularly around the wheel wells and rocker panels. Interior components, such as the leather seats and dashboard, can show wear and tear over time, with cracks and fading being common.
Recalls for the 1998 model year are not excessively numerous but do exist. Potential buyers should always check for any outstanding recalls or servicing that may have been performed. Long-term reliability hinges heavily on consistent maintenance, especially fluid changes and addressing minor issues promptly to prevent them from escalating into more significant and costly repairs. The powertrain is generally considered reliable if well-maintained.
Another recurring problem is related to the intake manifold gasket, which can develop coolant leaks over time. This can lead to overheating and potential engine damage if left unaddressed. While not specific to the 1998 model year, older vehicles within this generation can exhibit these issues.
Electrical gremlins are also occasionally reported, affecting things like power windows, door locks, and the instrument cluster. These can be challenging to diagnose and fix. The transmission, typically the 4R70W, is generally robust but can suffer from solenoid issues or torque converter problems with high mileage or neglected maintenance.
Body-wise, rust can be a concern in areas with harsh winters, particularly around the wheel wells and rocker panels. Interior components, such as the leather seats and dashboard, can show wear and tear over time, with cracks and fading being common.
Recalls for the 1998 model year are not excessively numerous but do exist. Potential buyers should always check for any outstanding recalls or servicing that may have been performed. Long-term reliability hinges heavily on consistent maintenance, especially fluid changes and addressing minor issues promptly to prevent them from escalating into more significant and costly repairs. The powertrain is generally considered reliable if well-maintained.
How long will the 1998 Lincoln Town Car last?
With proper and consistent maintenance, the 1998 Lincoln Town Car is capable of achieving well over 200,000 miles and can easily last for 15-20 years of service. Many owners report reaching 250,000 miles or more. The long-term durability of the V8 engine and transmission is impressive, especially when fluid changes are kept up. However, the air suspension system, while providing a superior ride, can become a point of failure over time, often requiring replacement of air springs or the compressor. Electrical components and interior wear are also areas that can degrade with age and mileage, but these are typically cosmetic or less critical than powertrain or suspension issues. Overall, it's a vehicle built for longevity when cared for.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 1998 Lincoln Town Car, while not a bastion of cutting-edge technology by today's standards, offered a comfortable and well-equipped cabin for its era. Standard technology included a premium AM/FM stereo with cassette player and often an optional CD player. Power windows, power door locks, cruise control, and an automatic climate control system were standard across most trims, enhancing convenience.
For driver assistance, the Town Car featured power steering and anti-lock brakes (ABS) as standard, which were crucial safety and convenience features at the time. Some models might have offered optional features like power-adjustable pedals, a feature that was quite advanced for the late 90s and helped drivers of varying heights achieve an optimal driving position. A trip computer was also a potential option, providing basic vehicle information.
Safety was a significant consideration. Standard safety features included dual front airbags and a reinforced passenger compartment. Seatbelt pretensioners were also included. For 1998, the Lincoln Town Car was part of the Panther platform, which performed reasonably well in government crash tests for its time. While specific NHTSA ratings for the 1998 model year aren't always easily accessible in a standardized format as they are today, vehicles from this platform generally received good marks for frontal and side-impact protection, reflecting their robust construction. The long wheelbase and solid build contributed to a sense of security. Optional features might have included an anti-theft alarm system. The focus was on occupant protection through passive restraints and solid engineering rather than active driver-assistance systems common today.
For driver assistance, the Town Car featured power steering and anti-lock brakes (ABS) as standard, which were crucial safety and convenience features at the time. Some models might have offered optional features like power-adjustable pedals, a feature that was quite advanced for the late 90s and helped drivers of varying heights achieve an optimal driving position. A trip computer was also a potential option, providing basic vehicle information.
Safety was a significant consideration. Standard safety features included dual front airbags and a reinforced passenger compartment. Seatbelt pretensioners were also included. For 1998, the Lincoln Town Car was part of the Panther platform, which performed reasonably well in government crash tests for its time. While specific NHTSA ratings for the 1998 model year aren't always easily accessible in a standardized format as they are today, vehicles from this platform generally received good marks for frontal and side-impact protection, reflecting their robust construction. The long wheelbase and solid build contributed to a sense of security. Optional features might have included an anti-theft alarm system. The focus was on occupant protection through passive restraints and solid engineering rather than active driver-assistance systems common today.
What Colors Options are Available?
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1998 Lincoln Town Car Prices and Market Value
When new, the 1998 Lincoln Town Car had an original MSRP ranging from approximately $37,000 for the Executive trim to over $45,000 for the top-tier Cartier models. Like most vehicles, it experienced significant depreciation in its early years.
Today, the used market prices for a 1998 Lincoln Town Car are generally quite affordable, typically ranging from $2,000 to $6,000, depending heavily on mileage, condition, trim level, and maintenance history. Cars in exceptional, low-mileage condition can command a premium.
Factors affecting resale value include the overall condition (mechanical and cosmetic), maintenance records, and the presence of any major issues like air suspension problems. Vehicles that have been meticulously maintained and are free from rust and significant wear will hold their value better than neglected examples. Depreciation has largely stabilized for this model, making it a budget-friendly luxury option.
Today, the used market prices for a 1998 Lincoln Town Car are generally quite affordable, typically ranging from $2,000 to $6,000, depending heavily on mileage, condition, trim level, and maintenance history. Cars in exceptional, low-mileage condition can command a premium.
Factors affecting resale value include the overall condition (mechanical and cosmetic), maintenance records, and the presence of any major issues like air suspension problems. Vehicles that have been meticulously maintained and are free from rust and significant wear will hold their value better than neglected examples. Depreciation has largely stabilized for this model, making it a budget-friendly luxury option.
1998 Lincoln Town Car Cost of Ownership
Owning a 1998 Lincoln Town Car can be surprisingly economical for its class, especially when purchased used. Insurance costs are generally moderate, comparable to other luxury sedans of its era. Fuel costs are a significant factor due to its V8 engine and less-than-ideal fuel economy; expect to spend more at the pump than with a smaller car.
Maintenance costs can be average to high. Routine services like oil changes are inexpensive, but repairs to the air suspension system can be costly. Parts are generally available, but specialized components might require more searching. Despite potential repair costs, its robust powertrain contributes to good long-term reliability if maintained. It's not an economical car in terms of fuel, but its used purchase price and potential for longevity can make overall ownership costs reasonable for a luxury experience.
Maintenance costs can be average to high. Routine services like oil changes are inexpensive, but repairs to the air suspension system can be costly. Parts are generally available, but specialized components might require more searching. Despite potential repair costs, its robust powertrain contributes to good long-term reliability if maintained. It's not an economical car in terms of fuel, but its used purchase price and potential for longevity can make overall ownership costs reasonable for a luxury experience.
1998 Lincoln Town Car Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
1998 Lincoln Town Car Recalls & Defects
Tires
Recall date
2000-12-12
Recall no.
00v356000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Vehicle Description: Certain Limousines Stretched Over 60 Inches Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Fmvss NO. 109, "new Pneumatic Tires," and NO. 110, "tire Selection and Rims."
Consequence
THE Vehicle Weight Could Exceed THE Maximum Load Rating FOR THE Tire, Increasing THE Risk OF Premature Tire Wear or Blowout.
Remedy
Dealers Will Replace All 5 Tires (Including THE Spare Tire) With Michelin Tires (225/70r16 107t Reinforced White Sidewall) With A Sufficiently Higher Load Rating. Owner Notification Began January 10, 2001. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Ford AT 1-800-248-0186.
Notes
Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Equipment:mechanical:integrated Jack/Leveler/Stabilizer
Recall date
2000-07-18
Recall no.
00v200000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Vehicle Description: Passenger Vehicles. These Vehicles Have Jacking Instructions Which, IF Followed, Could Cause THE Vehicle Operator TO Place THE Jack ON A Frame Weld When Attempting TO Raise A Rear Wheel. IF THE Vehicle IS Jacked UP With THE Jack Placed ON THE Frame Weld and IF THE Vehicle IS Free TO Roll (Wheels NOT Blocked or Chocked), THE Jack Could Yield and THE Vehicle MAY Drop Suddenly.
Consequence
IF This Occurs and ANY Portion OF THE Operator's Body IS Under THE Vehicle, THE Potential FOR Personal Injury Exists.
Remedy
Owners Will BE Provided With A Revised Jack Instruction and Stowage Card and Jack Warning Label, AS Well AS A Supplement TO THE Owner Guide.
Notes
Owner Notification Began August 3, 2000.owners WHO DO NOT Receive THE Free Instructions and Label Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Ford AT 1-800-392-3673.also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Seat Belts:front:anchorage
Recall date
2000-06-12
Recall no.
00v157002
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Vehicle Description: Passenger Vehicles Using Aftermarket Front Passenger Side Seat Belt Assemblies That Were Sold BY Ford Parts Departments From January 1, Through June 13, 2000. These Seat Belt Assemblies Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Fmvss NO. 209, "seat Belt Assemblies." THE Equipment Involved IS Service Stock Seat Belt Assemblies, Model Nos. H 9977, H 9979, T 9063, and T 9217, Built BY TRW Vehicle Safety Systems, Inc. (Trw) Manufactured From June 1, 1998 Through MAY 21, 2000. Some OF These Seat Belt Assemblies MAY Have Been Installed AS Service Replacement Equipment ON THE Vehicles Involved IN THE Recall.
Consequence
IN THE Event OF A Collision, These Seat Belts MAY NOT Restrain AN Occupant Increasing THE Risk OF Injury.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect These Vehicles and Replace THE Service Seat Belt Assemblies That Were Installed IN These Vehicles From January 1 Through June 13, 2000.
Notes
Owner Notification Began September 28, 2000. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Ford AT 1-800-392-3673.also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Seat Belts:front:anchorage
Recall date
2000-06-12
Recall no.
00v157001
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Vehicle Description: Passenger Vehicles Using Aftermarket Driver's Seat Belt Assemblies That Were Sold BY Ford Parts Departments From January 1, Through June 13, 2000. These Seat Belt Assemblies Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Fmvss NO. 209, "seat Belt Assemblies." THE Equipment Involved IS Service Stock Seat Belt Assemblies, Model Nos. H 9977, H 9979, T 9063, and T 9217, Built BY TRW Vehicle Safety Systems, Inc. (Trw) Manufactured From June 1, 1998 Through MAY 21, 2000. Some OF These Seat Belt Assemblies MAY Have Been Installed AS Service Replacement Equipment ON THE Vehicles Involved IN THE Recall.
Consequence
IN THE Event OF A Collision, These Seat Belts MAY NOT Restrain AN Occupant Increasing THE Risk OF Injury.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect These Vehicles and Replace THE Service Seat Belt Assemblies That Were Installed IN These Vehicles From January 1 Through June 13, 2000.
Notes
Owner Notification Began September 28, 2000. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Ford AT 1-800-392-3673.also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Suspension:front:control Arm:lower Ball Joint
Recall date
1998-12-16
Recall no.
98v322000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Vehicle Description: Certain 1996-1999 Ford Crown Victoria Police, Fleet, Natural Gas, and 1996-1999 Lincoln Town Car Limousine Vehicles That Were Produced With A Lower Control ARM Ball Joint Containing A ONE Piece Bearing; and 1990-1996 Ford Crown Victoria Police, Fleet, and NGV Vehicles and 1990-1996 Lincoln Town Car Limousine Vehicles That Have Been Serviced With Either A Ball Joint Containing THE One-piece Bearing or A Front Lower Control ARM Containing A Ball Joint With A One-piece Bearing. THE One-piece Bearing Within THE Lower Control ARM Ball Joint CAN Weaken Slowly During USE and Eventually Crack. This Could Result IN Separation OF THE Ball and CAP OF THE Joint, Allowing THE Control ARM TO Drop TO THE Ground.
Consequence
IF This Occurs While THE Vehicle IS Moving, Reduced Steering Control Could Occur, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Dealers Will Replace THE Lower Control ARM Ball Joints (2).
Notes
Owner Notification IS Expected TO Begin January 18, 1999.owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Ford AT 1-800-392-3673.also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Exterior Lighting:headlights
Recall date
1998-02-10
Recall no.
98v028000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Vehicle Description: Passenger Vehicles. THE Text And/Or Graphics FOR THE Vehicle Headlamp Aiming Instructions Provided IN THE Owner Guides ARE NOT Sufficiently Clear. This Does NOT Meet THE Requirements OF Fmvss NO. 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Consequence
IF THE Headlamp Assemblies ARE Replaced, Customers MAY BE Confused BY THE Aiming Instructions Provided IN THE Owner Guides Causing THE Headlamps TO BE Improperly Aimed.
Remedy
Owner Guides Containing Revised Aiming Instructions Will BE Mailed TO Owners OF These Vehicles.
Notes
Owner Notification IS Expected TO Begin March 23, 1998. Owners WHO DO NOT Receive THE Free Owner Guide Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Ford AT 1-800-392-3673.also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Vehicle Speed Control
Recall date
2007-08-03
Recall no.
07v336000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
ON Certain Pickup Trucks, Passenger Vehicles, Sport Utility Vehicles, and Motor Homes Chassis, THE Speed Control Deactivation Switch May, Under Certain Conditions, Leak Internally and Then Overheat, Smoke, or Burn.
Consequence
This Could Result IN AN Underhood Fire.
Remedy
Dealers Will Install A Fused Wiring Harness. Owners OF THE Passenger Cars Included IN This Campaign Will BE Instructed TO Return Their Vehicles TO Their Dealers TO Have THE Speed Control Deactivation Switch Disconnected AS AN Interim Repair. AS Soon AS Repair Parts ARE Available (Expected October 2007), Owners Will BE Instructed TO Return TO THE Dealers FOR Installation OF A Fused Wiring Harness. THE Recall Began ON August 13, 2007, and Mailing Completed BY September 19, 2007. Owners MAY Contact Ford AT 1-888-222-2751.
Notes
Ford Recall NO. 05s28.customers MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration;s Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Steering
Recall date
2015-10-06
Recall no.
15e082000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Dorman Products, Inc. (Dorman) IS Recalling Certain Model Dorman Steering Shafts, Part Number 425-359, Solutions Steering Shafts, Part Number 7-0359, and OE Solutions Steering Shafts, Part Number 425-359, Manufactured April 17, 2014, TO September 28, 2015. These Aftermarket Replacement Steering Shafts ARE Sold FOR USE IN 1995-2002 Ford Crown Victoria, Mercury Grand Marquis, and Lincoln Town Car Vehicles. These Steering Shafts MAY Separate During Operation IF THE Integral Fastener IS Loose or Missing and IF THE Interfacing Vehicle Shaft IS Compressed IN Length.
Consequence
IF THE Shafts Separate During Vehicle Operation, A Loss OF Steering Control Would Result, Increasing THE Risk OF A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
Dorman Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Steering Shaft, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON October 28, 2015. Owners MAY Contact Dorman Customer Service AT 1-800-523-2492, Option 5.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
1998 Lincoln Town Car Insurance
Insurance for a 1998 Lincoln Town Car is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 1998 Lincoln Town Car Compare to Other Sedan?
The 1998 Lincoln Town Car competed in the large luxury sedan segment against rivals like the Cadillac DeVille, Buick Park Avenue Ultra, and sometimes even entry-level luxury sedans from European brands.
Performance: The Town Car's 4.6L V8 provided smooth, effortless acceleration, prioritizing comfort over sportiness. The Cadillac DeVille, particularly with its Northstar V8, often offered more spirited performance. The Buick Park Avenue Ultra, with its supercharged V6, also presented a strong performance alternative.
Features: All these vehicles offered a similar level of luxury features for their time. The Town Car's signature was its exceptionally spacious interior and plush ride, thanks to its air suspension. Cadillac often led in more advanced tech features and a slightly more modern interior aesthetic. Buick focused on a comfortable, quiet ride, often with a focus on practicality.
Reliability: The Town Car's Panther platform is known for its robustness, especially the powertrain. However, the rear air suspension can be a weak point. The Cadillac Northstar V8 had some early reliability concerns, though later models improved. The Buick Park Avenue Ultra was generally reliable, but supercharger maintenance could be a factor.
Price: When new, they were similarly priced in the luxury segment. On the used market, the 1998 Town Car is often the most affordable, offering significant luxury for the money.
Alternatives:
Similar: The Cadillac DeVille (1996-2005) offers a comparable luxury experience, often with a more powerful engine and a slightly more contemporary feel. The Buick Park Avenue Ultra (1995-2005) is another strong contender for comfort and a quiet ride.
Better (if seeking more performance/modernity): If performance and more modern features are a priority, one might consider a used BMW 5 Series or Mercedes-Benz E-Class from the late 90s, though these will generally command higher prices and potentially higher maintenance costs. For American luxury with a slightly sportier edge, a Chrysler LHS or 300M could be considered, offering good value. However, for pure, unadulterated American comfort and a smooth ride, the 1998 Town Car remains a compelling choice.
Performance: The Town Car's 4.6L V8 provided smooth, effortless acceleration, prioritizing comfort over sportiness. The Cadillac DeVille, particularly with its Northstar V8, often offered more spirited performance. The Buick Park Avenue Ultra, with its supercharged V6, also presented a strong performance alternative.
Features: All these vehicles offered a similar level of luxury features for their time. The Town Car's signature was its exceptionally spacious interior and plush ride, thanks to its air suspension. Cadillac often led in more advanced tech features and a slightly more modern interior aesthetic. Buick focused on a comfortable, quiet ride, often with a focus on practicality.
Reliability: The Town Car's Panther platform is known for its robustness, especially the powertrain. However, the rear air suspension can be a weak point. The Cadillac Northstar V8 had some early reliability concerns, though later models improved. The Buick Park Avenue Ultra was generally reliable, but supercharger maintenance could be a factor.
Price: When new, they were similarly priced in the luxury segment. On the used market, the 1998 Town Car is often the most affordable, offering significant luxury for the money.
Alternatives:
Similar: The Cadillac DeVille (1996-2005) offers a comparable luxury experience, often with a more powerful engine and a slightly more contemporary feel. The Buick Park Avenue Ultra (1995-2005) is another strong contender for comfort and a quiet ride.
Better (if seeking more performance/modernity): If performance and more modern features are a priority, one might consider a used BMW 5 Series or Mercedes-Benz E-Class from the late 90s, though these will generally command higher prices and potentially higher maintenance costs. For American luxury with a slightly sportier edge, a Chrysler LHS or 300M could be considered, offering good value. However, for pure, unadulterated American comfort and a smooth ride, the 1998 Town Car remains a compelling choice.
Final Verdict: Is the 1998 Lincoln Town Car a Good Sedan?
The 1998 Lincoln Town Car is ideal for buyers who prioritize supreme comfort, a quiet and spacious cabin, and a smooth, relaxed driving experience above all else. It's perfect for seniors, those seeking a comfortable cruiser, or for livery/chauffeuring services.
It is absolutely worth buying, especially on the used market, for individuals seeking American luxury at a budget-friendly price. Focus on well-maintained examples, particularly those with records of regular servicing and fewer miles. The Signature Series or Cartier trims offer a more luxurious experience.
When buying used, thoroughly inspect the air suspension system, as it's a common and potentially costly repair. If you can find one with a well-documented maintenance history and in good cosmetic and mechanical condition, the 1998 Town Car offers incredible value for a comfortable and durable full-size sedan.
It is absolutely worth buying, especially on the used market, for individuals seeking American luxury at a budget-friendly price. Focus on well-maintained examples, particularly those with records of regular servicing and fewer miles. The Signature Series or Cartier trims offer a more luxurious experience.
When buying used, thoroughly inspect the air suspension system, as it's a common and potentially costly repair. If you can find one with a well-documented maintenance history and in good cosmetic and mechanical condition, the 1998 Town Car offers incredible value for a comfortable and durable full-size sedan.
Eugene S
Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.