Lincoln's Best Engines is likely referring to the high-quality, top-performing engines produced by the Lincoln Motor Company, which is an American luxury vehicle brand under the Ford Motor Company. While Lincoln has had various engines throughout its history, some of the best engines are typically determined by their reliability, performance, and technological advancements. Here is a brief overview of some of Lincoln's best engines:
1. **Lincoln V12 Engine (1932-1948):** This engine was introduced during the height of the V12 era and was known for its smooth operation and powerful performance. It ranged in size from 382 to 411 cubic inches and was used in models such as the K-Series, Zephyr, and Continental. The V12 engine represented luxury and prestige, and it helped establish Lincoln's reputation for powerful, luxurious vehicles.
2. **Lincoln 4.6L Modular V8 (1991-2010):** This engine was part of Ford's Modular family and was used in various Lincoln models, including the Town Car, Mark VIII, and the early versions of the Navigator. It offered good power and torque while maintaining relatively good fuel efficiency for a V8 of its time. The 4.6L V8 evolved over the years, with significant improvements made to its design and technology, such as the addition of overhead camshafts and variable valve timing.
3. **Lincoln 3.0L Inline-6 (1960-1965):** Known for its smoothness and reliability, this engine was used in the Lincoln Continental. It had a displacement of 300 cubic inches and was the first production V6 engine in the United States. This engine was notable for its advanced engineering, which included a cast-iron block and aluminum heads, and it helped to power Lincoln vehicles during the 1960s.
4. **Lincoln 5.0L Windsor V8 (1980-1995):** The 5.0L V8, also known as the "302," was a staple in Lincoln vehicles for over a decade. It offered a good balance of power and fuel efficiency, and it was widely used in models such as the Town Car, Mark VII, and the Fox-body Continental. The engine was known for its durability and was popular for its use in both luxury and performance applications.
5. **Lincoln 4.6L DOHC V8 (1996-2003):** The DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshaft) version of the 4.6L V8 was introduced in the Lincoln Mark VIII and was later used in the LS and Town Car. This engine was praised for its smoothness and power delivery, and it was one of the first to use a modular design with four valves per cylinder, which helped improve efficiency and reduce emissions.
6. **Lincoln 3.5L EcoBoost V6 (2009-Present):** The EcoBoost engine is a direct-injected, twin-turbocharged V6 that has been used in various Lincoln models, including the MKS, MKT, and MKZ. It offers substantial power and torque while being more fuel-efficient than larger displacement V8 engines. The 3.5L EcoBoost, in particular, is known for its performance and efficiency, and it has been well-received in luxury vehicles due to its ability to provide V8-like power with fewer emissions and better fuel economy.
7. **Lincoln 2.7L EcoBoost V6 (2015-Present):** This smaller displacement EcoBoost engine has been a hit in vehicles like the Fusion and Edge. It delivers a balance of power and efficiency, making it suitable for Lincoln's smaller, more agile vehicles like the Nautilus and MKX. The 2.7L EcoBoost has been praised for its responsiveness and smoothness.
8. **Lincoln 5.4L Modular V8 (1996-2010):** This engine was a larger variant of the 4.6L V8 and was used in vehicles like the Navigator and Mark LT. It offered more power and torque, which was essential for the larger, heavier luxury SUVs of the time.
9. **Lincoln 3.0L Inline-6 (2020-Present):** This engine is a modern interpretation of the classic inline-6 layout and is part of the Aviator and Nautilus lineups. It uses a turbocharged and hybridized system to provide excellent power and efficiency, showcasing Lincoln's commitment to advanced technology and performance in the luxury segment.
10. **Lincoln 3.0L Inline-6 with Twin-Turbochargers (2020-Present):** Found in the Lincoln Aviator and Corsair Grand Touring, this engine is a powerful and efficient option that delivers high levels of torque at low RPMs, making it excellent for towing and hauling. The twin-turbo setup allows for a smaller displacement engine to produce V8-like power while maintaining fuel efficiency.
To determine the best Lincoln engine, one would need to consider the specific model year, application, and personal preferences such as performance, fuel economy, and maintenance costs. However, these engines have generally been recognized for their contributions to the Lincoln brand's legacy of luxury and performance.
