2002 Lincoln Continental: Road Test
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2002 Lincoln Continental ▼
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- MSRP: $38,185 -$39,895
- Invoice: $35,097 -$36,636
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Our road test for the 2002 Lincoln Continental includes a full evaluation of the 2002 Lincoln Continental from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2002 Lincoln Continental, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2002 Lincoln Continental help you decide if a 2002 Lincoln Continental is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| Driver Select | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 6.5 |
An effortless cruiser with strong pickup from all speeds, but engine isn't as brawny--or smooth--as Cadillac's similarly sized Northstar V8.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Driver Select | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 4.2 |
Relatively thrifty. Extended-use test car averaged 18.5 mpg over 10,300 mi. Lincoln recommends premium gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| Driver Select | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 8 |
Long-term test car was equivalent to '02 Driver Select model; none of its suspension settings delivered the comfort and control expected in this class. Regular chassis furnishes a comfortable but not exceptional luxury ride.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Driver Select | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 6.6 |
Again, the Driver Select chassis, despite its adjustability, has no dynamic advantage over the base setup--and its steering never feels natural. However, stopping power is strong, brake modulation good in any model.
QUIETNESS
| Driver Select | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 7.5 |
Engine note is pleasing, mostly subdued, but there's audible tire rumble on concrete surfaces, and some on our staff judge wind noise high for a luxury sedan.
CONTROLS
| Driver Select | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 5.3 |
Workable-but-dated dashboard design is less user-friendly than some. Headrests and thick roof pillars impede vision astern. Good overall build quality, though extended-use car had a minor dashboard rattle. Real wood cabin trim a plus.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Driver Select | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 7.8 |
Cabin too narrow for three adults not to rub shoulders. Some may find the seat cushions too soft for best long-distance support.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Driver Select | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 7 |
Limited cabin width and over-soft seats prevail here, too. Leg room not generous, toe space tight under the front seats.
CARGO ROOM
| Driver Select | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 4.9 |
More than enough for a family of four on a long trip. Cabin provides mediocre odds-and-ends storage.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Driver Select | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 2 | 4.6 |
It's quiet and powerful, but Continental is a near-luxury also-ran for comfort, room, and image. This slow-seller is worth considering if you can get a big discount, which should be easy given its imminent phaseout, though you'll take a big hit in first-year depreciation.
Total Score
| Driver Select | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 54 | 62.4 |
Total Score: 54
Scores for all Premium Large Cars
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