And the first major auto show of 2002 needed a special concept to bring attention to the Lincoln brand, as the coming year would be especially important according to Kelley.

"This is a pivotal year in Lincoln's long-term growth strategy," Kelley stated. "We are launching three new products this summer to build on our strong foundation, and we are presenting the Continental to show where we will take the brand in the near future."

the first major auto show of 2002 needed something special to bring attention to the Lincoln brand, and the Continental Concept did just that. (Photo: Ford Motor Company)

The three new products were the redesigned 2003 Town Car, the basis for nearly the entire limousine trade, the completely revamped Navigator and all-new Ford Explorer based Aviator.

The Continental's lines are sharp, clean and generally minimalist compared to the soft and curvy creations of recent years. (Photo: Ford Motor Company)

While the first two have been extremely successful in their respective markets, the Aviator has languished in the ultra-competitive midsize SUV segment to the point where Ford Motor recently announced its almost certain demise, joining the brand's Blackwood pickup truck embarrassment even before the sport utility's first year of sales is completed.

More reasons that a Lincoln success story is paramount. Something similar to the Continental concept, put into production, could be that saving grace. Its lines are sharp, clean and generally minimalist compared to the soft and curvy creations of recent years.