Mercury Comet 200 cubic inch inline-6 1963
General description :
Nice older restoration. Original color combination. Great-running 170 cubic inch inline-6 with automatic, so it’s easy to handle. Power top, bucket seats, center console. Very clean throughout, ready to have fun!
Before there was the Mustang, the Ford Falcon and Mercury Comet were the go-to choices for right-sized cars that were fun to drive and affordable to own. The Comet was a bit bigger and more luxurious than the bare-bones Falcon and offered a unique look that sets it apart. For many people, it was a big step up, offering big car looks and comfort without the big car price tag. That remains true today, where you can own this awesome 1963 Comet convertible for less than the cost of a comparable Mustang. With small tail fins, the Comet has a look that ties it together with its other Mercury siblings and helps it stand apart—here in the showroom, a lot of folks mistake it for something bigger and more expensive. Mercury called code M Sultana White, which is pretty much the same Wimbledon White that adorned so many Fords of the era. It’s a soft white with a little yellow in it, not a hard appliance white, and that certainly helps with the upscale look. Finish quality is very good with straight bodywork that doesn’t show signs of major rust or accident damage, good panel gaps, and end caps on those tail fins that fit almost seamlessly. The chrome is probably original and some of it is showing some age, including the ‘Comet’ emblem on the hood, which is damaged, but details like the fluted panel between the taillights and both bumpers are in great shape, plus the distinctive S-22 stainless trim on the sides. For a car you’re going to drive, this one presents quite well.
The tan bucket seat interior was part of the S-22 package and it offers correct seat covers with silver piping, new black carpets, correct door panels, and plenty of 1960s jet-age details—check out the silver fil inserts on the door panels! These were simple cars, so the instrument panel reflects that: a wide speedometer, fuel and temperature gauges, and a row of control knobs for secondary functions underneath. The black plastic steering wheel is so nice it has to be new, and the controls will feel familiar the moment you slide behind the wheel. Affordable cars weren’t usually loaded up with options, although there’s an AM radio in the center of the dash and a power convertible top, something seldom seen on these cars. The top itself was probably replaced at the same time, and offers a crystal clear rear window and an excellent fit. There’s also a rather large trunk upholstered in correct mouse fur upholstery and it includes a full-sized spare tire assembly.
Ford’s remarkably smooth 170 cubic inch inline-6 provides enough power to make the Comet feel sporting around town. It never seems to work very hard and the inline engine remains turbine smooth throughout the range. Given it’s bulletproof reliability and easy maintenance, it remains a great choice for the enthusiast looking for a car that’s easy to live with. It’s detailed with Ford Blue engine enamel and wears correct decals and lots of new parts, including belts, hoses, fuel pump, and more. It starts easily and idles nicely, and never seems to be working very hard. The 2-speed Merc-O-Matic automatic transmission is a great complement to the six’s torque curve, pulling it off the line with enthusiasm yet reasonable at highway speeds. The undercarriage is clean with professionally-done floor patches in the usual spots, but nothing that should cause concern. The rockers and torque boxes are in excellent condition and all the factory convertible reinforcements are still in place. There’s a newer exhaust system with a pleasing sound, the brakes are effective, the gas tank is new, and it sits on factory steel wheels and 195/75/14 whitewall radials.
A little unusual, a lot of fun, and nicely finished, this Comet delivers the kind of drop-top fun you’ve been looking for. Cheaper than a Mustang and far less common, you’ll stand out at shows yet still benefit from the massive aftermarket that sprang up to support the Mustang—everything you will need is just a phone call away. A great little car that’s ready to enjoy. Call today!
Harwood Motors always recommends and welcomes personal or professional inspections of any vehicle in our inventory prior to purchase.
1963 Mercury Comet 200 cubic inch inline-6 is listed for sale on ClassicDigest in Ohio by Harwood Motors for $19900.
Car Facts
Car type : Car Make : Mercury Model : Comet Model Version : 200 cubic inch inline-6 Engine size : 0.0 Model Year : 1963 Sub type : Convertible Location : Ohio Vehicle Registration : Undefined
19900 $
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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.