Mercury Cougar 351 cubic inch V8 1973
General description :
11,905 original miles (not a misprint). Great color combination, beautiful original interior, great-running 351 cubic inch V8. Working factory A/C, upgraded radio, dual exhaust added. Nicely documented. A cool cat ready for preservation class judging!
We’re seeing a nice uptick in the values of cars that are like a Mustang but aren’t a Mustang. Cougars, Comets, Falcons, they’re hot right now which is why we like this 1973 Mercury Cougar XR7 so much. Mercury’s cat had all the moves of a Mustang with a bit more luxury and all the rough edges polished away, making for an altogether more pleasant motoring experience. With just under 12,000 original miles, there’s no question that this Cougar has led an easy life. Paint meter readings consistently show 2-3 mils, so that’s factory paint and factory paint means no surprises underneath. We’re guessing that the rear valence has been repainted, but again, the paint measures out at 3 mils, so it’s hard to say for certain. What is for certain is that the doors swing closed with a precise click, the vinyl top is in superb condition, and all the glass is pretty much unmarked, all details that you’d expect in a low-mileage car that’s been properly stored and maintained. Big chrome bumpers, the upright center grille, and the polished window reveals are all in excellent shape. This car is exactly what you’d expect from a virtually new 1973 Mercury.
The beautiful dark blue bucket seat interior should dispel any concerns you may have about the car’s legitimacy. Look at it! There’s not a mark on the seats, the carpets are unworn (new reproduction floor mats are included with the car), and the door panels don’t have any cracks, sags, or scuffs. The gauges are all operational, including the factory tach, and the bright, crisp markings ignore the passage of 50 years. Functional factory A/C makes this car a comfortable cruiser even in warmer climates and the only notable deviation from stock is a modern AM/FM stereo radio in the center stack, but it’s worth noting that the original AM radio is included if you want to go back to 100% stock. Only the clock is non-functional, but that’s not really a surprise. The back seat has probably never been used and the factory headliner is taut and clean with no sagging or tears. Even the trunk is beautifully preserved with original mats and what appears to be the original spare tire that has never been down. Nice!
This car is powered by the Cleveland version of Ford’s reliable 351 cubic inch V8, which was equipped with a 2-barrel carburetor (it was 1973, after all). It remains 100% stock from the air cleaner to the exhaust manifolds, and runs quite well—easy starts, a nice idle, and plenty of torque on the road. It’s finished in factory Ford Blue engine enamel with all the original decals and markings readily visible. IT has recent belts and hoses as well as a new battery, but otherwise it remains pretty much as the factory built it. The only real deviation from stock spec is a great-sounding dual exhaust system with Flowmaster mufflers, so it has a slightly more aggressive soundtrack than stock. The C6 3-speed automatic transmission is noted for its reliability and shifts cleanly through all the gears without much drama and with 2.75 gears out back, it’s a fantastic highway cruiser that just loafs along with modern traffic. Power steering and power front disc brakes are part of the package, so it’s quite easy to handle and the ride was definitely more luxury than sport by 1973. Steel wheels with original hubcaps are fitted with new 205/75/14 blackwall radials so it’s ready to cruise.
Documentation is extensive, including the original window sticker, build sheet, owner’s manual, and a Marti Report.
Original cars are special—they drive better, feel better, and represent a more accurate view of the past than a restored car. Cougars are still quite rare and finding one that hasn’t been extensively modified or driven in winter weather is a pleasant surprise. Take it for a spin and you’ll quickly see that Ford was still building some pretty darned nice cars in 1973. Call today!
Harwood Motors always recommends and welcomes personal or professional inspections of any vehicle in our inventory prior to purchase.
http://www.harwoodmotors.com/vehicles/inventory_details.php?id=1602
1973 Mercury Cougar 351 cubic inch V8 is listed sold on ClassicDigest in Macedonia by for $34900.
Car Facts
Car type : Car Make : Mercury Model : Cougar Model Version : 351 cubic inch V8 Engine size : 0.0 Model Year : 1973 Location : Ohio
Sold
Seller Information
Sold
People who viewed this Mercury Cougar also viewed similar Mercury listed at ClassicDigest
Mercury Cougar
109000 $
Houston
Mercury Cougar
89000 $
Houston
Mercury Cougar
79900 $
Plymouth
Mercury Cougar
20500 $
Indianapolis
Mercury Cougar
32900 $
Port Charlotte
Other cars listed for sale by this dealer
Ford Fairlane
32900$
Ohio
Ford De Luxe
29900$
Ohio
Ford Mustang
29900$
Ohio
Ford Model A
24900$
Ohio
Pontiac GTO
89900$
Ohio
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.