June 14, 1954, is a date that won’t raise eyebrows or snatch ‘wows’ from the regular, everyday, normal gearhead. Still, one particular piston loyalist smiles in nostalgia when the moment is mentioned.

Lincoln’s line up for 1955 included just two series, the Custom and the Capri, which, but for some badging and sweepspear differences, were identical cars, sharing the same body panels, 123" wheelbase ...