The 2000 Lincoln Continental represents the final year of this long-running luxury sedan, a flagship model for Lincoln known for its smooth ride and spacious interior. It's a four-door sedan, available in Base and Premium trims. New, it ranged from approximately $38,000 to $42,000. The Continental stood out due to its combination of traditional American luxury and a unique, understated elegance. It was popular for providing a comfortable and quiet driving experience.
The Good
The 2000 Lincoln Continental offers a comfortable and luxurious ride, appealing to those seeking a relaxed driving experience. Its smooth performance and spacious interior provide a practical benefit. Emotionally, it offers a sense of classic American luxury and understated elegance, while providing good value on the used market.
The Bad
Known weaknesses include potential air suspension issues, which can be costly to repair. The automatic transmission can also be problematic at higher mileage. Watch for rust, especially in areas with road salt. Electrical gremlins can surface in older models, impacting various systems. Regular maintenance is crucial to mitigate these potential problems.
2000 Lincoln Continental: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: 4.6L InTech V8
- Horsepower: 275 hp
- Fuel Economy: Approximately 17 mpg city / 25 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times: Around 7.5 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended or officially rated
- Trim-Level Features:
- Base: Leather upholstery, automatic climate control, power-adjustable front seats, premium sound system, antilock brakes, traction control.
- Premium: Adds features like memory settings for the driver's seat and mirrors, upgraded sound system, automatic dimming mirrors. It may include optional features like a sunroof and upgraded leather.
- Detailed Feature Breakdown:
Both trims came standard with a 4-speed automatic transmission. The suspension was designed for a comfortable ride, prioritizing smoothness over sporty handling. Safety features included dual front airbags, side airbags, and antilock brakes. Interior features included wood trim accents and a generally well-appointed cabin. The Premium trim level often featured upgraded wheels and exterior trim as well. The vehicle's dimensions provided ample passenger space, especially in the rear seats. The trunk offered substantial cargo capacity, suitable for luggage and other items. The audio system included a CD player and AM/FM radio. Automatic headlights and fog lights were available. The Continental offered a quiet and refined interior, minimizing road noise and vibrations, a hallmark of luxury sedans.
2000 Lincoln Continental Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2000 |
| Make | Lincoln |
| Model | Continental |
| Trim | - |
| Style | 4-Door Sedan |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | WIXOM |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 4.6-L 8cyl |
| Engine Size | 4.6L |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | https://schema.org/Front-wheel Drivewheeldriveconfiguration |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
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Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2000 Lincoln Continental Have?
Frequently reported problems for the 2000 Lincoln Continental often involve the air suspension system. The air springs can leak, causing the car to sag and requiring costly repairs or replacement with conventional coil springs. Transmission issues, particularly with the 4-speed automatic, are also common, especially at higher mileages. Symptoms include slipping gears or harsh shifting. Electrical problems, such as malfunctioning power windows, locks, or climate control systems, are not uncommon as the car ages. Rust can be a concern, especially in areas with harsh winters and salted roads, affecting the undercarriage and body panels. The intake manifold is known to crack and leak coolant. Check engine lights and sensor failures can be prevalent. Recalls were issued for various safety-related concerns, including potential fuel leakage and airbag issues. Long-term reliability concerns center around the aging electronic components and the complexity of the air suspension system. Regular maintenance and addressing issues promptly are crucial for extending the lifespan of these vehicles. Prior to purchase, a thorough inspection by a qualified mechanic is highly recommended.
How long will the 2000 Lincoln Continental last?
With proper maintenance, a 2000 Lincoln Continental can potentially reach 200,000 miles or more. However, due to its age, many examples have already surpassed this mark and are showing signs of wear. Regular oil changes, transmission fluid services, and addressing issues promptly are essential. The air suspension system and transmission tend to be the primary weak points over time. Expect to address rust concerns, especially in colder climates. The durability of interior components like leather seats and plastic trim depends heavily on the care they've received. Vehicles with consistent maintenance records are more likely to provide longer service.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2000 Lincoln Continental featured a decent array of built-in tech for its time. Entertainment features included a premium sound system with a CD player and AM/FM radio. Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern vehicles but included traction control and antilock brakes. Safety features comprised dual front airbags and side airbags. Optional features included a sunroof, upgraded sound system, and memory settings for the driver's seat. The climate control system was automatic, ensuring consistent cabin temperature. Power-adjustable front seats offered enhanced comfort. The instrument cluster provided basic vehicle information such as speed, fuel level, and engine temperature. The car featured power windows, door locks, and mirrors. While not featuring modern infotainment systems or advanced driver-assistance technologies like lane departure warning or adaptive cruise control, it provided a comfortable and convenient driving experience for its era. Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) generally showed favorable results for frontal impact protection. However, side impact protection ratings were not as strong compared to newer vehicles. It's important to consider the vehicle's age when evaluating its safety features compared to contemporary standards. Headlights were automatic, turning on in low-light conditions. Fog lights were available as an option.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Ivory Pearlescent Metallic Clearcoat
Black Clearcoat
Medium Platinum Metallic Clearcoat
Light Prairie Tan Metallic Clearcoat
Dark Toreador Red Clearcoat
Vibrant White Clearcoat
Midnight Grey Metallic Clearcoat
Deep Wedgewood Blue Clearcoat Metallic
Interior Colors
Light Parchment
Willow Green
Black
2000 Lincoln Continental Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2000 Lincoln Continental ranged from approximately $38,000 to $42,000 depending on the trim and options. Current used market prices typically range from $2,000 to $8,000, depending on condition, mileage, and location. Depreciation has been significant due to its age. Factors affecting resale value include its overall condition, mileage, service history, and whether it has been well-maintained. Examples with low mileage and comprehensive service records command higher prices. The desirability of classic luxury cars also plays a role, but the Continental isn't typically considered a high-demand collectible, impacting its resale value.
2000 Lincoln Continental Cost of Ownership
Insurance costs for a 2000 Lincoln Continental are relatively low due to its age and depreciated value. Fuel costs are moderate, reflecting its V8 engine and fuel economy of around 17/25 mpg. Maintenance and repair costs can be high, especially if the air suspension or transmission requires attention. Long-term ownership costs can be significant due to potential repairs and the age of components. It's not an economical car to own compared to newer, more fuel-efficient vehicles. Budgeting for unexpected repairs is crucial.
2000 Lincoln Continental Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
2000 Lincoln Continental Insurance
Insurance for a 2000 Lincoln Continental is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2000 Lincoln Continental Compare to Other Sedan?
The 2000 Lincoln Continental competed with vehicles like the Buick Park Avenue, Cadillac DeVille, and Chrysler LHS. In terms of performance, the Continental's V8 offered adequate power, but its handling was less sporty than some competitors. Feature-wise, it offered comparable luxury amenities. However, its reliability is generally considered lower than the Buick Park Avenue, which is known for its dependable mechanicals. The Cadillac DeVille offered a similar blend of luxury and performance but could also suffer from reliability issues. At current used prices, the Continental is often cheaper than well-maintained examples of its rivals. Similar alternatives include the Lexus ES 300, which offers superior reliability but less interior space. Another alternative is the Mercury Grand Marquis, which shares some mechanical components with the Continental but is generally more reliable due to its simpler design and lack of air suspension. Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual priorities. If reliability is paramount, the Buick Park Avenue or Lexus ES 300 are better options. If a smooth ride and classic American luxury are desired, the Continental is a viable choice, provided potential maintenance costs are considered.
Ranks #2098 Sedan
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (4.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
| 2098 | 2000 Lincoln Continental | (0.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2000 Lincoln Continental a Good Sedan?
The 2000 Lincoln Continental is ideal for someone seeking a comfortable and spacious classic American luxury sedan at a budget price. It's worth buying if you appreciate its smooth ride and understated elegance and are prepared for potential maintenance costs associated with an aging vehicle. It's best to buy a well-maintained example with a comprehensive service history. Given its age, buying new isn't an option. Both Base and Premium trims offer similar core features, so condition and maintenance are more important than trim level. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is essential to identify potential issues before committing to the purchase. If reliability is a top priority, consider alternative vehicles.
Cathleen V
Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.