Mercury Custom Lyons Ultra Modern Mercury 1 off 1950
General description :
Built by Leo Lyons with guidance by Sam & George Barris.
California Metal Shaping Also Involved with Design and Build
Most Radical Custom Merc Built in the 1950s
Cover Car in February, 1960. In 1950, 20-year-old Leo Lyons had a dream of building a custom car unlike any other – he would scratch-build it from the ground up. Over the next few years Leo became acquainted with some of the legends of Southern California speed and custom such as Ed Iskenderian and both George and Sam Barris who would help and inspire his design. But before he began, he needed one more group on board – Ford Motor Company. Leo’s initial plans called for building 10 identical custom cars and he was going to build each with brand new parts – and then heavily modify these parts. The chassis and body panels were purchased new from Ford. With the first set of panels on hand, Leo set to work learning how to weld and shape metal under the guidance of Sam Barris. A few parts needed to be custom built, so Leo called on the legendary metal-shaping firm “California Metal Shaping” to custom design and build the doors, hood, and top. Leo Lyons, now 30 years old, debuted his car – The Leo Lyons Custom Merc – across Southern California Custom Car shows nearly a full 10 years after he started. Each time, he was recognized with awards and the moniker the “Ultra Modern Merc.” This car is the most radically customized ’49-51 Custom Mercury built in-period, and has been recognized as the last significant Custom Mercury built in the ‘50s. In early 1960, it was featured on the cover of Trend Inc.’s “Custom Cars” magazine, along with a feature article. In Trend Inc.’s 1961 Custom Cars Annual, it was again recognized as one of the most significant custom Merc’s built to date with a two page feature article inside. Only this Custom Merc – his prototype – was built.
The price of the vehicle includes container delivery from the USA to port in Holland only. It does NOT include VAT (6%) customs and handling costs (euro 510) or ocean insurance. We can assist with these shipping matters as well as coordinate door to door delivery anywhere in Europe at an additional cost. All cars listed are currently located in the USA. If you are looking for a similar car to the one listed, let us find the one you want. Cielo Motors Inc. is based with its main office in Michigan, USA in addition to a European sales department in Kristiansund N, Norway. All E-mails and phone calls will be answered promptly by the Sales Manager in Norway to best facilitate the time differences among our customers and offices. Any inquires specifically directed to the main office will be forwarded and answered the same day in which they are received. Independent inspections are available at an additional cost. With over 30 years of professional experience in the classic car business, we make the process of buying your car very straightforward and worry free. Contact us for references.
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1950 Mercury Custom Lyons Ultra Modern Mercury 1 off is listed sold on ClassicDigest in 2683 Orchard Lake RoadUS-48320 Sylvan Lake by Auto Dealer for €119500.
Car Facts
Car type : Car Make : Mercury Model : Custom Model Version : Lyons Ultra Modern Mercury 1 off Engine size : 0.0 Model Year : 1950 Sub type : Coupé Location : 2683 Orchard Lake RoadUS-48320 Sylvan Lake
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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.