2008 Lincoln Town Car Review
The Town Car is Lincoln’s flagship luxury sedan that first debuted in 1981. The second generation debuted in 1990 and was declared Motor Trend’s “Car of the Year.” The third generation was released in 1998, making it a thoroughly modern luxury car. The fourth generation appeared in 2003 with a new suspension and a more upscale look. Town Car owners are the most loyal in the industry, with over 2/3rds of buyers being repeat customers, and 60% of them saying that they would not consider any other car.
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
It says a lot about the Lincoln Town Car‘s design, that it has remained consistent and still keeps a loyal fan-base. In other respects, such as drivability and features however, it seems a little outdated. But it’s still a roomy, reliable, posh luxury car, for a very reasonable price.
What’s New For 2008:
What is the Predicted Reliability:
J.D. Power gives the Town Car its highest 5 star rating for dependability. Problems with the third generation included coolant leaks, heater core leaks, vehicle noise, and water leaks. It was recalled 7 times. The current town car has had issues with failed blower motors, engine noise, failing radiator fans, chattering wheels, and faulty alternators. It’s been recalled three times for overloaded parts on fleet vehicles, chaffing battery cables, and improper wheel heat treatment. Expect above average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for four years or 50,000 miles.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
The Town Car received perfect government crash test scores. In IIHS tests, it earned “Good” for the front and “Marginal” for the rear. Front side airbags and traction control come standard.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Mature and reliable
+ Extremely spacious
+ Well-priced
Cons
– Dated
– Awkward handling
– Limited safety features
Head-To-Head Competition:
The BMW 5 Series 528xi includes AWD, navigation, and a moonroof, but costs over a thousand more and has less cargo space, and lacks a CD changer and leather. The Cadillac DTS has nearly 40 more hp, but costs a few hundred more and lacks a CD changer. The Lexus GS 350 includes AWD and has over 60 more hp, but costs several hundred more and has a smaller trunk.
What Others Are Saying:
“To say the Town Car’s basic blueprint has aged well is like calling Eleanor Roosevelt just another stand-up lady. But in today’s highly competitive luxury car market, the Town Car’s tuning package owns an uncomfortable middle ground. It’s not surprisingly limber like the mack-daddy Ford Police Interceptor, and not stupid-plush like a proper Lincoln. Add in the Town Car’s dim-witted four-speed automatic and you have a severely flawed package.” – The Truth About Cars
“Some things just keep getting better with time. Mention that to a typical Lincoln Town Car fan and she or he will probably agree.” – Road & Travel
“Its future was in limbo in 2007, but the Town Car will survive at least one more year, and might outlive us all. A traditional, rear-wheel-drive V-8-powered six-passenger full-size sedan, this is a favorite of livery drivers and retirees because of its space, creamy ride, and safety stuff.” – Car and Driver
Read more about the 2008 Lincoln Town Car at the Lincoln manufacturer web site.
