turn onto a busy street into an adventure that required careful planning and nerves of

steel.

Yes, it was that slow.

Each horsepower that its V6 engine generated had to haul around 22 pounds of car.

While the Continental is a little heavier, its engine is a lot more powerful. The

InTech V8 only has to move 15 pounds per horsepower.

The difference is stunning. Folks who measure such things say '96 models can go

from 0-60 mph more quickly than the LS 400 or the Oldsmobile Aurora. The powertrain is

now one of the Continental's strengths.

You notice the Continental's heft a little more in sharp curves. The body rolls a

bit, and there is some understeer. (That means the car resists turning and wants to

keep going straight.)

We'd love to report that the adjustable steering and suspension systems help the

Continental make the transition from freeway cruiser to backroad bandit. They don't.

Firm. Plush. Low. Normal. The differences are real but subtle enough that many

drivers will probably be disappointed they can't feel greater changes in the ride and

handling as they switch between settings.

But don't worry about that. All in all, the handling is quick and sure enough to

satisfy most drivers under most conditions, no matter what settings you use. After

all, Lincoln doesn't portray the Continental as a sports sedan. It's a luxury car.

Most drivers should also find the Continental to be one of the quietest cars

they've ever been in. Wind and road noise is minimal. Engine vibration is virtually

banished from the cabin. You walk away with the overall impression that the

Continental is an easy and pleasant car to drive. Maybe one of the easiest and most pleasant cars you've ever driven.