Lincoln Motor Company

American company

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June 30, 2026

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The Lincoln Motor Company was founded in 1917 by Henry M. Leland, an American engineer and manufacturer known for his rigorous standards in automobile production. Leland had previously been instrumental in the success of the Cadillac car.1

In 1922, the Lincoln Motor Company was acquired by the Ford Motor Company. Lincoln became Ford's luxury automobile division, aimed at appealing to a broader range of consumers. The company is recognized for its contributions to automotive engineering, including Leland's innovations like the V-8 engine and the adoption of the electric starter.21

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Ford Motor Company
1920s–1930s: New models and continued global expansion
…its portfolio by acquiring the Lincoln Motor Company (founded in 1917). The acquisition would later produce Ford’s luxury Lincolns, including its flagship Continental. In 1938 Ford introduced the first Mercury, a mid-priced car positioned between standard Ford models and the higher-end Lincoln line.
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…its portfolio by acquiring the Lincoln Motor Company (founded in 1917). The acquisition would later produce Ford’s luxury Lincolns, including its flagship Continental. In 1938 Ford introduced the first Mercury, a mid-priced car positioned between standard Ford models and the higher-end Lincoln line.
Read More