Mercury Cougar 351 Cleveland V8 1970
General description :
REAL-DEAL XR7, USED IN "DRIVING MS. DAISY", NEVER LEFT GA, 351C V8, PB/PS/AC!!
When Mustangs grow up, they want to be Cougars. With the same long nose, short deck styling as the Mustang, but in a slightly larger, more luxurious package, this 1970 Mercury Cougar XR7 offers grown-up performance for people who like a little luxury with their muscle. Of course, perks like A/C, a vinyl top, and an automatic transmission only help the Cougar's case, and this one has the bonus of having been used in the film "Driving Miss Daisy." Cool, right?
Recently refinished in what appears to be its original code 2 Light Ivy Yellow, the Cougar's lines are clean and instantly recognizable. From the finned front grille and hidden headlights to the kick-up behind the doors, it looks powerful. It doesn't have any add-ons or stripes, which we like, and the crease that runs from nose to the rear wheel arches gives it a tight look that Mustangs lack. The beautifully restored vinyl top fits well and looks great, with no wrinkles or tears in the material. The paint is well applied over super straight sheetmetal, and the bright finish reveals that a lot of time was invested in getting everything blocked and flat. All the chrome and trim has been polished up or replaced, proper Cougar badges affixed to the quarters, and the full-width taillight is in superb condition.
The all-black interior was the most popular choice in 1970, and it still looks awesome today. The seats and door panels might just be original, and maybe even the carpets, which are showing some age. Nothing major, mind you, and it would be a mistake to restore anything. The gauges show bright, clear markings and a tach is a nice find in a luxury-oriented car like this. Options include factory A/C (needs to be serviced), a console with a T-handle shifter, and a rim-blow horn that has a reasonably convincing woodgrain to it. The aftermarket AM/FM/cassette stereo radio works properly and is a nice upgrade, and for the 1970s, that was state-of-the-art in in-car entertainment. Even the trunk is nicely finished with a reproduction mat and full-sized spare tire.
Power for the big cat comes from a 351 cubic inch "Cleveland" V8, which is a perfect fit in the Cougar's engine bay. A 4-barrel carburetor gives the big Cat surprisingly sharp reflexes and a big hit of power at almost any speed. It has been recently detailed with Ford Blue paint, reproduction decals, and a few other bits that keep it looking authentic. The rest of the engine bay is tidy, and you could work on taking it up another notch without too much effort. Underneath, the chassis is clean and well-maintained, with a great-sounding dual exhaust system whose tips are just barely visible beneath the rear valence, again emphasizing the Cougar's subtle muscularity. The C4 3-speed automatic transmission shifts cleanly and there's a fresh gas tank hanging out back. Factory steel wheels carry standard hubcaps and a set of 215/70/14 Uniroyal whitewall radials.
The car is nicely documented with proof that it was used as Morgan Freeman's daughter's car in "Driving Miss Daisy" and we have to admit we like the combination of Mustang DNA and big car luxury that this Cougar represents. Call today!
Features : Seatbelts, Power Steering, Power Brakes, Front Disc Brakes, Vinyl Interior, Heat, Air Conditioning, Defrost, Cassette Player, AM/FM Radio
https://www.streetsideclassics.com/vehicles/4354-atl/1970-mercury-cougar-xr7
1970 Mercury Cougar 351 Cleveland V8 is listed sold on ClassicDigest in Lithia Springs by Streetside Classics for $23995.
Car Facts
Car type : Car Make : Mercury Model : Cougar Model Version : 351 Cleveland V8 Engine size : 0.0 Model Year : 1970 Sub type : Coupé Location : Atlanta
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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.