Mercury Cougar 302 V8 1971
General description :
REAL XR7 'VERT, 302 FITECH INJECTED, SERPENTINE, PWR 4-DISC BRAKES/STEER, A/C!!
Both the Mustang and the Cougar grew in 1971, but the Cougar seems to wear the extra size better than its cousin. This 1971 Mercury Cougar XR7 convertible represents either an affordable vintage cruiser or a great starting point for an amazing resto-mod.
The paint is recent and nicely done, and we like the burgundy color that gives it a grown-up look that suits the Cougar's upscale mission. The chiseled good looks reflect both the pony car and Lincoln DNA in its family, and adding big wheels and some attitude only enhances the image. The narrow front grille with "power dome" hood are certainly reminiscent of Lincolns of the same period, while the kicked-up quarter panels behind the doors are pure Mustang, making for a very attractive package. The late-model color works quite well on the vintage bodywork, and it's easy to imagine it with, say, a blacked-out hood and a modest spoiler out back for some balance. But even as it sits, it's rather handsome and the Cougar's shape has aged quite gracefully. The front bumper is in good original condition, but we'll admit the rear bumper needs to be re-chromed if your intention is to keep it stock. But beyond that, this is a great-looking car.
If you've driven an early '70s Mustang, you'll feel right at home here. The bucket seats are a little wider and a little softer, but the array of round gauges are pure pony car. It's possible that the interior is original, so the driver's seat has a split and the fabric is a little faded, but new seat covers are included with the sale. You'll note nice black carpets on the floors to provide some welcome contrast and a center console adds to the performance vibe. The gauges are custom white-faced dials that look great in a machine-turned instrument panel that definitely works in the XR7. For entertainment, the original radio was dumped in favor of a JVC AM/FM/CD stereo, although the door speakers have yet to be installed (another opportunity for you to do it your way). The power convertible top is in good shape and the trunk is outfitted with a full mat set and a full-sized spare tire.
Ford's 302 cubic inch V8 was torquey and very user-friendly in the Cougar, offering good performance without being fussy. This one has been significantly upgraded with FITech fuel injection, an Edelbrock intake manifold, an HEI distributor, and a set of long-tube exhaust headers, so you know where the real money was spent. With those cool Edelbrock Racing valve covers and a serpentine belt drive system, along with a set of adjustable strut tower braces, it looks far more modern under the hood than you'd expect. Power steering and power front disc brakes were standard equipment on the heavier, more luxury-oriented Cougar, but the recent Flowmaster dual exhaust system has a wonderful low burble that totally sounds like a muscle car. The automatic transmission snaps off quick shifts, so this Couger feels a lot like a late-model 5.0 Mustang rather than a vintage cruiser. The undercarriage is pretty original, but this car has spent most of its life in a warm climate so while it's a little grungy, you won't be worried about its structural strength while you're out cruising. It's also fitted with 4-wheel disc brakes which look ideal behind late-model Mustang wheels carrying 235/55/17 performance radials.
Lots of money was spent where it matters, making this Cougar a blast to drive and only a few upgrades away from being something truly special. Take this opportunity and make it your own. Call now!
Features : Seatbelts, Power Windows, Power Steering, Power Brakes, Fuel Injection, Four Wheel Disc Brakes, Vinyl Interior, Heat, Air Conditioning, Power Convertible Top, Defrost, iPod Compatible, CD Player, AM/FM Radio
https://www.streetsideclassics.com/vehicles/4431-atl/1971-mercury-cougar-xr7-convertible
1971 Mercury Cougar 302 V8 is listed sold on ClassicDigest in Lithia Springs by Streetside Classics for $19995.
Car Facts
Car type : Car Make : Mercury Model : Cougar Model Version : 302 V8 Engine size : 0.0 Model Year : 1971 Sub type : Convertible 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.