The Lincoln Navigator

Image source: http://www.thesupercars.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/2012-Lincoln-Navigator-in-black-up-the-hill.jpg

This is how times change. Back in 1949 a World War II hero with four purple hearts called Carmen Miceli opened a tiny pizza restaurant in Hollywood. The average price for a meal was under $1. But it soon became a favorite with restaurant-goers, and by the mid50s, and early 60s the humble little eatery was attracting celebrities such as Joe DiMaggio, Marilyn Monroe, the Beatles, and JFK.

Fast-forward to 2010, and 60 Warner-AOL executives arrive at the very same Miceli's to celebrate there. But what do they all roll up in? Not cabs, not their own Bentley's, and Rollers, or standard limousines. No, they pull up in three Lincoln Navigator super stretch limos. That's right, 20 in each, all enjoying luxury status, and the glamor of celebrity in beautiful plush comfort. Why? Because it's the only way to travel on a big night out...and is actually very economical. Executives don't get where they are today by not knowing about economics. But aside from that traveling to a night out destination, a restaurant, bar, or club, or sporting event in something like a Navigator is just pure fun when there are so many people involved.

And it is that sense of occasion, and fun, and economy that is being enjoyed by not just by the money-men, the rich, and powerful, the executive elite. No, it's a style, and bit of glitz that EVERYONE can enjoy these days. Which is how it should be.

So, stand aside Warner-AOL execs, and allow Ordinary Joe to explain what is so great about a ride in a chauffeur-driven stretch limo. Well, for starters it looks a million dollars from the very first glance as over 30 feet long! And then there's the gull-wing jet doors, massive chrome wheel rims, and tinted windows. Just one looks says, "First Class."

And then when those gull-wing doors glide noiselessly open, the words "First Class" becomes superseded by other equally expressive superlatives, such as "Awesome," "Mega," "Breathtaking," and "Out of this world," as the eyes fall on the swish leather upholstery, floor-to-ceiling disco light show, neon-illuminated paneling, chintzy cocktail cabinet, TV screens, and meg-watt sound system.

And then of course, there's the moon roof, for that final touch of excitement, elegance, and "Wow" factor. It's simply irresistible. And at only $95 an hour ($4.75 per person with 20 sharing), it's beautifully priced, and worth every dime.

There you have it. Over 60 years on from the opening of Hollywood's first pizzeria by a war hero, a new kind of swash, and buckle befitting such heroism has emerged: the Lincoln Navigator super stretch limo.