Faults:

I've only had the car for a few weeks now. This Mark 8 has been well cared for by the previous owners, and it shows. There's really no problems with it cosmetically; it's white with a beige interior, which works really well in Arizona.

The only issue right now is the low beam headlight. It appears the HID bulb is OK, but the ballast, or wiring to the ballast has gone bad. Too bad I spent over $200 on a new bulb already! The bulb was only made for the 97 and 98 year models, so it's not a common part.

General Comments:

This is a great car for long distance, high-speed interstate trips. It does not feel as big as it looks when you're behind the wheel, probably because the steering is so tight and precise. This is one of the few cars I've owned that's just a pleasure to drive.

The engine is super smooth. It reminds me of the '97 Maxima I had, but with more torque. Shift point seems a little weird at 30mph; apparently that is normal for this car.

The interior is slick, especially the message center. I like the instant fuel economy setting, probably not the most accurate thing, but it's still cool.

The air suspension is nice, but expensive to fix. There are retrofits using coils which eliminate the air system altogether. www.suncoreindustries.com has them.

Replacement items can be had on eBay for a fraction of what dealers and even internet parts stores are asking. Things like keyless entry remotes and headlight ballasts, which are just insanely overpriced. Also check markviii.org and other Lincoln forums.

Because of the cost and complexity of the parts, the Mark might not be a good choice for the complete idiot or car novice. In the lighting section, the owner's manual even states 'the bulb is NOT replaceable' and to take it into a dealer. Keep this in mind when buying a used Mark 8, because they can be had for low prices, but the parts can easily offset this. The rear neon brake light also costs quite a bit to fix.

Faults:

The Air shocks have gone bad. They were already deteriorating when I bought the car. I am guessing that is why the seller sold it for such a low price. He was anticipating it.

The door ajar sensor for the right door sometimes shows the door is open when it is not.

The door lock on the driver side gets stuck in the winter.

General Comments:

This car is awsome. I had an audi previously and miss the sporty suspension and the stick control as it was a manual, but this car is so luxurious. Plenty of room in the big plush seats. All the details on the interior really make you feel like you are in a top of the line car.

The quickness of the car is also desire quenching. I wanted a sports car, but I settled for this nice and luxurious car as it was always a childhood longing to own this ride.

Everyone who rides in my car is also amazed by it. Those who do not know much about automobiles, assume they are in a high priced automobile.

The air shocks are expensive, but they make this ride. I really believe tat if you ride in this car, you will be addicted to the smoothness of the air socks, and the way they make the passenger feel they are on a cushion the whole ride.

I would definitely have bought another used one like this one. It has such high mileage on it, but the engine is so smooth I see the engine lasting for at least another 3-4 years. Now other factors might really harm the car, for example the harsh Michigan weather has really done a number of the paint job. And the underbody is showing some serious signs of rust. But the engine cranks over like its butter, and the ideal is better than my wifes 2003 Malibu (which I also love, but does not compare to my ride).

I would definitely buy another used luxurious model once this car wears out. Possibly jump into a Cadillac. Or I might even go back to sporty, but I am thoroughly pleased with this ride.