2000 Lincoln LS: 'Luxury' and 'Sport' Are Standard Equipment
5 January 1999
2000 Lincoln LS: 'Luxury' and 'Sport' Are Standard Equipment
LOS ANGELES, Jan. 5 -- With the 2000 model year approaching, Lincoln is ready to join one of the most competitive leagues in the automotive industry -- the luxury sport segment. When the all-new LS hits the showroom in 1999, it will be the most advanced Lincoln ever built -- an automobile for people who enjoy a finely crafted balance of luxury and performance.
"With this car, Lincoln is preparing for a long trip around the world," said Jac Nasser, Ford president and chief executive officer. "The time is right for an American-bred, American-built luxury sport sedan that can compete with the best in the world."
The all-new LS platform is designed with the technical features of other successful cars in this global arena -- rear-wheel drive, four-wheel independent suspension, a choice of four-valve overhead camshaft engines and two new transmissions, all-speed traction and yaw control, and anti-lock brakes.
The latest safety technologies, including front-seat side air bags and dual front-mounted air bags, are standard equipment.
After debuting in North America in 1999, the LS series will appear in more than 30 markets, including Europe and Japan. Both right-hand drive and left- hand drive versions will be available at public introduction.
LS joins the popular Navigator and the redesigned Continental and Town Car in Lincoln's lineup. These four distinct vehicles are deliberately sized and tuned to appeal to four different types of buyers, while maintaining a family resemblance. Unlike the more traditional Lincoln sedans, LS is intended to attract buyers considering their first luxury car after owning a midsize domestic or imported sedan. Luxury + Sport = Balanced Performance
Beginning with its nomenclature, Lincoln LS is a luxury sport sedan in the truest sense, equipped with modern and innovative technology. "LS is engineered and built to the highest standards in Ford Motor Company history," said Nasser. "Today's automotive customers demand the very best in their cars, and LS will deliver a complete package of performance and driving pleasure in an American luxury sport sedan."
Two new all-aluminum double-overhead camshaft engines power the LS -- a 3.0-liter, 24-valve V-6 and a 3.9-liter, 32-valve V-8. The V-6 produces 210 horsepower (SAE net) at 6,500 rpm, with peak torque producing 205 foot-pounds at 4,750 rpm. The V-8 produces 252 horsepower (SAE net) at 6,100 rpm, with peak torque producing 267 ft.-lbs. at 4,300 rpm.
In addition, the LS V-6 can be ordered with a five-speed, close-ratio manual transmission -- the first manual gearbox in a Lincoln since the 1951 Cosmopolitan. Either powertrain can be ordered with an electronic five-speed automatic with overdrive, or an available dual gate SelectShift(TM) that gives the driver the choice of manual or automatic gear selection. Unlike some other so-called manual-shifting automatic transmissions, the LS SelectShift(TM) will hold the selected gear right up to the tachometer red line, where a computerized fuel shut-off prevents over-revving.
In addition to the sophisticated powertrain, technically oriented drivers will appreciate the world-class driving dynamics of the new LS. With its near 50/50 front-to-rear weight distribution and lightweight suspension, including an optional handling package, the LS feels right at home on any scenic twisting road, whether it's California's Pacific Coast Highway, Germany's autobahn or Japan's kosokudoro.
The LS suspension is a short/long-arm design in both the front and rear and was designed to provide a new level of driver-oriented responsiveness and capability with uncompromising passenger comfort. Suspension design and development engineers from Formula 1 and CART racing teams brought their knowledge and experience to the LS program.
The aluminum rear suspension has a patent pending, fully double-isolated rear subframe design, featuring high anti-lift properties under braking. An optional sport package will be available featuring European suspension calibration with retuned springs, shocks and stabilizer bars, and 17-inch wheels and V-rated tires.
The toughest body stiffness targets in Ford's history resulted in a rigid body structure and a solid foundation for the suspension. The all-new four- wheel disc power-assisted brake system delivers confident stops. It incorporates an anti-lock braking system (ABS) for electronic brake force distribution to provide optimum balance between the front and rear brakes.
The rack-and-pinion steering system has variable power assist for confidence at highway speeds, while easing low-speed maneuvers and parking.
Safety is a Top Priority
Lincoln LS meets or exceeds all impact protection standards for every country in which it will be marketed. North American customers will benefit from the car meeting European standards such as offset frontal impact and side impact. The strategic use of high strength steels in the vehicle structure enhance impact absorption and performance.
LS is also equipped with dual second-generation air bags for the driver and front passenger. Side air bags are standard for the front-seat occupants, providing combined head and chest protection. The head and chest air bags are designed to help reduce the potential for injury in the event of a side impact. Interior surfaces also meet the more stringent FMVSS 201 head impact requirements in the United States.
Classic Design
A study in classic automotive proportions with an American twist, the LS Series has a wheelbase that is long relative to its overall length. The front overhang is comparatively short, while a low cowl line provides excellent driver visibility over the hood. Interior and exterior design provide a carefully considered expression of understated and casual American refinement.
"The LS design exhibits a new kind of Lincoln that appeals to a customer looking for a complete package of comfort and performance," said Nasser. "This sedan's proportions, along with its wide stance, visually reinforce the fact that this car is solid and inspiring to drive."
External design cues include the signature Lincoln vertical grille, classic dual round headlights and prominent taillights, while the fenders and quarter panels are sculpted over and around the wheels to accentuate the car's aggressive profile.
