41,000 original miles … Gorgeous Mark V Cartier Edition … Dove Grey exterior with coordinating leather interior … 460 CID V-8 … Power Moonroof … Previously owned by Speaker of the House Dennis Hastert …

It only takes a few tag words to highlight the features that make this beautiful 1977 Lincoln Mark V desirable among collectors:  Cartier Edition, power moonroof, 460 CID V-8, 41,000 original miles.  Each one of these items makes it coveted among collectors, but what truly sets this car apart—even among comparably equipped Mark Vs—is its unique part in American history.

This gorgeous Mark V was previously owned by Speaker of the House J. Dennis Hastert, the longest serving Speaker of the House, who served in this capacity from 1999 – 2007.  In September 2005, in the wake of Hurricane Katrina, he received criticism for questioning whether it was prudent to rebuild the devastated areas, given that they were below sea level.  Perhaps to alleviate this criticism, he donated his Mark V to be auctioned off at Kruse International’s Fall Auburn Classic and Collector Car Auction, with the proceeds benefiting the Red Cross’s Hurricane Katrina relief fund.  No doubt to the delight of the Red Cross, the Mark V drew a $50,000 winning bid!  Purchased by noted Houston trial lawyer and car collector John O’Quinn, the Mark V was part of his personal 800 car collection until his untimely death in 2009.

This classic’s laser straight and high luster Dove Grey finish is complemented by Cartier’s choice of a single fine red pinstripe and his signature logo on the deck lid.  Matched with glove-soft Dove Grey leather and a vinyl landau roof, its soft tones and textures are understated and elegant.  The chrome and bright work is in excellent condition and further enhances its beautiful lines.  In addition, the interior, including seats, carpeting, headliner, door panels, and dashboard are virtually free of wear and show as new.  Having traveled less than 41,000 miles, this car runs and drives as well as it looks.  It even sports two of its four original Michelin tires!

You will also appreciate its level of optional equipment, including the following:

• 460 CID V-8 with 4 barrel carburetor
• Speed control
• Interval wiper system
• Interior light group
• Illuminated entry system
• Headlamp convenience group
• Remote control right hand mirror
• 6-way power passenger seat
• Tilt steering wheel
• Power vent windows
• Power lock convenience group
• Defroster group
• Landau vinyl roof
• Custom paint stripes
• Rocker panel moldings
• Leather dual comfort lounge seats
• Turbine-styled cast aluminum wheels
• AM/FM Stereo with Quadrasonic 8-track
• Power glass moonroof in silver (a $937 option in 1977)

All power options, with the exception of the power antenna (motor operates but does not lower mast), power door locks, and passenger power rear tilt seat function as they should.  In addition, the air conditioning works but does not currently blow ice cold.  In addition, there are some minor dings in the chrome trim surrounding the wheel wells that should be noted.

Included with sale are Speaker Hastert’s personalized “CDWHIP2” license plates, color photocopy of the Illinois title bearing his name, Kruse International paperwork from the September 2005 auction, and various articles documenting Hastert’s and O’Quinn’s ownership.  Additionally, the left side of the hood was signed by Hastert when the car was auctioned off in 2005, although it is only visible up close in certain light, and is not visible in photographs.

 Make today the day to add this unique piece of rolling automotive memorabilia to your collection!