You're probably wondering why this section exists! Well, people always ask, "How did you know that was a 92 and not a 93?" when we see cars driving by, and other similar questions. Here's a brief listing of what to look for on Town Cars that give away their model years. (Hoping to have some pictures here soon as well!)
The links now to go their respective brochure scans in the gallery! (fixed 6-7-2006)
1990
and
1991
The 1990 Town Car has extra chrome on the top of the bumpers, where future
years have just two strips on the edge of the bumpers. It also has all
square vertical bars on the grille insert. I think 1990 and 1991 are the
same. 1991 was the first year of the 4.6L V8. 1990 still had the 5.0.
1992
The 1992 looks just like the 1993 but the grill pattern has all squared
pattern. Has extra chrome on front and rear bumpers.
1993
The 1993 has two square and one jagged pattern to the grille insert. Does not have the extra
chrome on the front and rear bumpers.
1994
The 1993 and 1994 look exactally the same to me. I can't tell them apart!
One thing that might give you a hint is dual exhaust is standard on 1994's
where it is an option on 1993's. If the car you're looking at has dual
exhaust, there's a good chance it is a 1994. Last year of the four-spoke steering wheel as well as the classic
three-segment dash.
1995,
1996
and 1997
They all also look generally the same. Smaller, clear headlights,
additional running lights on the rear, and single chrome
strips on the sides are major identifiers. Also stereo and/or climate controls on the two-spoke steering wheel is
common. 1996 is the first year of the problematic plastic intake
manifold. The 1997 removes the sliding trunk keyhole protector for just
a keyhole with the word Lincoln over it.
1998,
1999 and
2000, 2001, 2002
There was a major style change in 1998. The front grille is more
smiley-faced and the back has triangular brake lights. The entire car
looks more modern, turning away from it's traditional styling. The hood
ornament is gone. Also introduced is the "L" (Cartier and
Executive), an extra long version for added luxury. The "L" has an extra
wide pillar between the front and rear windows, easy identifiable.
2003+
Another restyling returns the hood ornament and a slighty more square
body. Also very easy to spot with the wider grille. HID headlights are
an option as well and very noticible as well as the power trunk.