Mercury Comet 1966
General description :
Originally planned as an Edsel model, the Comet was reassigned to the Mercury division of Ford, and created in conjunction with the Falcon. This particular 1966 model is a third-generation Comet that comes in the highly desirable two-door Caliente convertible trim. The repainted red and white exterior trim is complemented by the cleanly redone white interior that features a power top, air conditioning, and a modern stereo tucked away under the original. Sink into the plush white vinyl bucket front seats, and eventually, you'll notice the original five-pod dashboard sitting just beyond the two-spoke Cyclone steering wheel.
Despite having a somewhat confusing history of ping-ponging between being listed as a compact and intermediate-sized car from year to year, whatever its classification, under the hood, is where this particular car has no problem with its identity. A factory-correct 390 cubic inch Ford V-8 sits, topped by a single two-barrel carburetor, designating this as a 265-horsepower variant. Power is routed from that big block engine to a C6 three-speed automatic transmission and on the stock rear end.
The double grill works with the double-stacked headlight setup to give the Comet Caliente a style unlike anything else on the road before or since. Riding on a stock suspension that sits on 14-inch wheels draped in 195/75R-14 rubber. Unlike so many Ford Mustangs that have seen significant jumps in resale prices as of late, the Comet Caliente convertible offers a sporty, less expensive alternative to the more Blue Oval that also happens to be a bit more family-friendly to boot.
Also unlike the massively produced Ford Mustang, there were only about 4,000 of these particular cars built, making them extremely collectible and valuable to the right buyer. Add the fact that this car also comes with the original owner's manual, service manual, and maintenance records to verify its life experience, and suddenly this Caliente convertible just got a lot hotter than anyone expected.
*Collectible Caliente convertible model *390 CID V8 *Two barrel carb *265 hp *C6 three speed auto *Fresh paint *Double stacked headlights *Double stacked grill *Modern stereo *Clean white interior *Newer tires *Chrome hubcaps *1 of approx 4000 made
https://www.streetsideclassics.com/vehicles/4381-tpa/1966-mercury-comet-caliente-convertible
1966 Mercury Comet is listed sold on ClassicDigest in Lutz by Streetside Classics for Not priced.
Car Facts
Car type : Car Make : Mercury Model : Comet Engine size : 0.0 Model Year : 1966 Sub type : Convertible Location : Tampa
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About Mercury
Mercury, the automotive brand, has a rich history that extends beyond its role in the customization and hot-rodding scene, particularly with the iconic Mercury Eight. Here are some key points to know about Mercury:Formation and Early Years:
Mercury was introduced by the Ford Motor Company in 1938 as a mid-priced brand, positioned between the affordable Ford models and the luxury Lincoln lineup. The brand aimed to fill the gap between these two segments.
Mercury Eight:
The Mercury Eight, launched in 1939, is perhaps the most famous model in the brand's history. It featured a sleek design and a powerful V8 engine. This model became popular for customization and hot-rodding, earning it a significant place in American automotive culture.
Customization Culture:
The Mercury Eight, with its distinctive styling and relatively affordable price, became a favorite among custom car builders. It played a pivotal role in the development of the custom car and hot rod culture, particularly in the post-World War II era.
Lead Sleds and Customization:
The term "lead sled" is often associated with heavily customized cars from the 1940s and 1950s. These cars, including the Mercury Eight, were often modified with lowered suspensions, chopped roofs, and other stylistic changes. Lead sleds were a prominent part of the custom car scene, and the Mercury Eight was a popular choice for such modifications.
Post-War Prosperity:
In the post-World War II period, Mercury, like many other American automakers, experienced a surge in popularity as the economy boomed. The brand contributed to the era's fascination with stylish and powerful automobiles.
Evolution of Models:
Over the years, Mercury continued to produce various models, contributing to Ford's lineup. Some notable models include the Mercury Monterey, Mercury Comet, and Mercury Cougar.
Decline and Discontinuation:
Despite periods of success, Mercury faced challenges in establishing a unique identity separate from Ford. As consumer preferences shifted, the brand struggled, and Ford eventually announced the discontinuation of Mercury in 2010.
Legacy in Popular Culture:
Mercury, especially models like the Mercury Eight, holds a significant place in American popular culture. Its association with the customization and hot-rodding scene, as well as its distinctive designs, has left a lasting impact.
In summary, while the Mercury Eight is celebrated for its role in the customization and hot-rodding subculture, Mercury as a brand played a broader role in automotive history, contributing to mid-priced segments and reflecting the automotive trends of its time.