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1949 Mercury Series 9CM

The Mercury Series 9CM was introduced on April 29th of 1948. World War II had halted automobile production and when production resumed after the war, most marque's were offering vehicles similar to the pre-War styles. Little changed for a few years; for Mercury, this change did not happen until 1948 when they introduced the Series 9CM. They shared styling similar to Lincolns and used chrome in the bumpers and trim. The sedans had doors that opened towards the center and the wood bodied station wagons had only wood trim. The cars rested on a 118-inch wheelbase and powered by an eight-cylinder engine that displaced 255 cubic-inches and capable of producing 110 horsepower. Optional at this time were radio, heater, rear fender shields, whitewall tires, and foam rubber seat cushions. All 9CM models were equipped with a three-speed manual gearbox with the Touch-O-Matic being offered as optional equipment. Price ranged from $1,980 through $2,720. By Daniel Vaughan Sold for $77,000 at 2011 RM Auctions. This 1949 Mercury 8-Passenger 9CM Woody Wagon was offered for sale at the 2007 Blackhawk Collection Exhibit held at the Pebble Beach Concours. It carried a price tag of $275,000. The 'Woody Wagon' has become one of the most sought-after American cars of its era and Mercury is one of the most desirable. This beautifully restored example is possibly the finest one available. Its Flathead 8-cylinder engine wîth three two-barrel Stromberg carburetors, Offenhauser heads and intake perform beautifully. Source - Blackhawk Collection Sold for $63,800 at 2012 Gooding & Company. The Mercury 9CM series of cars were introduced in April of 1948 and were the company's first new offerings of the post-War era. This also marked the first time since the launch of the brand in 1938, that the body panels were distinct from those of the equivalent Ford models, instead sharing many of their body shells with Lincoln. Another new addition was the introduction of non-structural wood trim produced in an electro-bonding process under 75 tons of pressure. The body was constructed almost entirely of steel which helped reduce interior drafts and noise, and difficult structural repairs. The wagon, which sold for $2,716, was the highest produce model in the range. Just 8,044 were produced from a total of over 300,000 Mercury cars produced in 1949. Styling was performed under the direction of E.T. 'Bob' Gregorie. Mr. Gregorie, a trained naval architect, is said to have incorporated nautical elements during his automotive design career. The 1949 Mercurys certainly support that belief. This Mercury wagon was discovered in the early 2000's, which had been stored in a barn in Vermont and showed just 34,000 miles. The exterior was restored to its original color scheme before the wagon changed hands in 2004. Today, the car still shows less than 37,000 miles. The car features an optional clock, radio and heater. Power is from a 255 cubic-inch flathead V8 engine breathing through a single 2-barrel carburetor. The engine produces 110 horsepower and is sent to the rear wheels via a three-speed manual gearbox with overdrive. In 2012, the car was offered for sale at the Gooding & Company auction in Amelia Island, Florida. It was estimated to sell for $50,000 - $75,000 and offered without reserve. As bidding came to close, the car had been sold for $ 63,800 inclusive of buyer's premium. By Daniel Vaughan Source: Internet

1948 Mercury Series 89M

Sold for $143,000 at 2009 RM Auctions. The Mercury Model 89M is powered by a 239.4 cubic-inch V8 engine mated to a three-speed manual transmission with Columbia rear end. Its wheelbase measures 118-inches and there are four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes. Its body is made of the very rare birdseye maple, particularly prized for fine furniture and wood accessories. The swirling grain of the wood resembles the eye of a bird, hence the name. It was fairly common in Ford's Iron Mountain forest, which had the climatic conditions for growing this type of pattern. This Mercury is a nicely freshened original example that has been repainted in the original Tuscon Tan color. The seats are all the original red leather and they do show some wear. There are black rubber floor mats in the front and rear and the dashboard is the original mahogany woodgrain with only a few scratches. This car was acquired by nick Alexander in May of 1996. It has received a Rouge Award for its original interior from the Early Ford V8 Club at Temecula, California. Currently, the car has just over 70,000 miles on the odometer. In 2009, this Mercury Sportsman was offered for sale at the Sports & Classics of Monterey auction in Monterey, California presented by RM Auctions. The car was estimated to sell for $100,000-$140,000 and offered without reserve. The lot was sold for the sum of $143,000, including buyer's premium. By Daniel Vaughan The 1948 Mercury's were very similar in design to the 1947 models. Power was from a V-8 engine capable of producing 100 horsepower at 3800 RPM. A three-speed manual was standard and there were four bodystyles to select from : a station wagon, convertible, town sedan, and a sedan coupe. Pricing began at $1650 and went to $2200 for the eight-passenger station wagon. Source: Internet

1941 Mercury Model 19A

The Mercury was introduced in 1939 as Ford's mid-level line, priced to compete wîth Pontiac and Oldsmobile. Edsel Ford took the lead in developing the line, naming it after the fleet-footed messenger of the gods. Although early Mercury's were frequently viewed as upscale Fords, brisk performance helped the car achieve a dedicated following. The line attained a stronger identity after World War II wîth the establishment of the Lincoln-Mercury Division. Source - AACA Museum Edsel Ford had been pressuring his father to expand their product line similar to the marketing strategy that General Motors had been doing for a number of years. The result of his efforts was the Lincoln Motor Company, which was purchased by Ford in 1921 and placed under the guidance of Edsel. The Lincoln Company prospered during the 1920s but the onset of the Great Depression left Henry Ford on the verge of abandoning the company. Edsel proposed a lower-priced car that could be sold a price range between the Fords and the expensive Lincolns. His request was granted in 1935 when the Lincoln Zephyr was introduced. After the Depression, the market again gained momentum and car sales began increasing. The fastest growing market was for the medium-priced vehicle which favored other marques such as Pontiac, Oldsmobile, and Dodge. Edsel and Henry began working on a new car that was larger and more expensive than the Ford but less elegant and more economical than the Lincolns. The result of their work was introduced in 1941 and dubbed 'Mercury', after the swift Roman god. It was given a larger engine than its competitors whiling weighing less meaning it offered superior performance for a lower price. Less than 9000 examples were created before the United States entered into World War II and Ford switched to war production. In 1945 Mercury was transferred to the Lincoln Division and became known as Lincoln-Mercury. The 1941 Mercury Series 19A, Model Eight Club Convertible Coupe carried a $1070 factory price tag. Its 118 inch wheelbase was propelled by an eight-cylinder 239.4 cubic-inch engine that produced just under 100 horsepower. By Daniel Vaughan Sold for $49,500 at 2009 RM Auctions. Mercury was introduced in 1939 and was named after the Roman god and was the culmination of Edsel Ford's idea. The car became an immediate sales success with over 70,000 units sold during the first year. This example was purchased in 1992 by Cleveland Browns owner Alfred Lerner, a noted car enthusiast. The car was sold a year later to James Berick who donated it to the Crawford Museum in 1999. There is dark blue leather upholstery with rubber mats in front and blue carpets in the rear. The engine is a Flathead V8 displacing 239 cubic-inches and producing 95 horsepower. There is a three-speed manual transmission and four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes. In 2009, this car was offered for sale at the Vintage Motor Cars of Hershey presented by RM Auctions where it was estimated to sell for $40,000 - $50,000 and offered without reserve. The lot was sold for the sum of $49,500, including buyer's premium. By Daniel Vaughan Sold for $121,000 at 2009 RM Auctions. Work began in 1937 on the soon-to-be introduced Mercury cars. The cars were introduced in New York at the time of the November 1938 auto show, and offered in four bodystyles including a two-door sedan, a four-door, a convertible coupe and a novel sedan coupe. The company was the brainchild of Edsel Ford and the design work was courtesy of E.T. 'Bob' Gregorie. The Mercury cars were very similar in design to their Ford counterparts, and in many respect a larger version of the Ford. They were mechanically similar and obviously Ford-shaped. Among the main differences were a four inch longer wheelbase and ten extra horsepower. During the first year of production, around 75,000 Mercury's were sold, with price tags to range from $916 to $1,018. The following year, in 1940, 81,000 examples were sold, and a new body style - a convertible sedan - was introduced. Ford had discontinued the four-door convertible after 1938, and Mercury had added to their listings. For 1941, the Ford wheelbase grew to 114 inches, and the Mercury's now measured 118-inches. A station wagon option became available, and was one of seven body styles in the 1941 Mercury catalog. Costing $1,141, it was the most expensive Mercury, the convertible sedan having been dropped. Along with more power and a longer wheelbase, the Mercury Wagon was available in a choice of birch or gum panels to contrast the maple framing, and color-coordinated leather seats. Just like the Fords, the bodies were all built at Iron Mountain. In total, Mercury sold 2,145 examples of the Woodie Wagon in 1941, easily out-selling Buick and Packard. This 1941 Mercury Station Wagon has been given a high-quality restoration and finished in Cayuga Blue. It has earned a Dearborn Award from the Early Ford V8 Club. It wears its original Birch wood body and has a new black artificial leather roof. The seats are upholstered in new red leather and there are lap belts for two in the front. There are black rubber mats on the floor in both the front and the rear. The car is equipped with a hot water heater, a radio, and dual outside mirrors. The current mileage is just under 100,000. In 2009, this Mercury Station Wagon was offered for sale at the Sports & Classics of Monterey auction in Monterey, California presented by RM Auctions. The car was estimated to sell for $135,000-$155,000 and offered without reserve. The lot was sold for the sum of $121,000, including buyer's premium. By Daniel Vaughan Source: Internet

1940 Mercury Eight Series

Sold for $52,800 at 2007 Worldwide Auctioneers. This 1940 Mercury Eight Convertible Sedan was offered for sale at the 2007 Sports and Classic Car Auction presented by The Worldwide Group, in Hilton Head Island, SC where it was estimated to sell for $50,000 - $100,000. It was offered without reserve. The Mercury nameplate was the result of Edsel Ford who envisioned the it as a brand that would fall below the luxury brand of Lincoln but above the entry-level Fords. As much needed convincing to father, Henry, and other family members, the project was given the green light. By the close of the 1930's, cars were being assembled and producing with Mercury badges. From the start, the Mercury brand was successful. It competed against General Motors products of Pontiac and Oldsmobile and it took a few years to assemble similar sales figures as these household names. During the early 1940's, Mercury averaged around 80,000 units per year which put it in twelfth or thirteenth in the industry. The name 'Mercury' is from the winged messenger god in Greek mythology. In keeping true to its name, the Mercury had performance and style. They sat on a wheelbase four-inches longer than the Ford, measuring 116 inches. Styling featured curved fenders, rounded body lines, and a crisp and pointy front end. When production began, the Mercury was available in either two- or four-door 'beetleback' sedans, a notchback sedan coupe, and a convertible coupe. Prices ranged from around $915 to just over $1,000. In 1940, a convertible sedan was added to the line-up. Around 1,150 of this bodystyle were created as it was a one-year option and carried a hefty price tag. This Convertible Sedan is finished in the rare and original color of Albacore Blue. The interior of this car is burgundy with a matching tan top. It has many factory options such as AM radio and factory heater that includes a defroster. Unusual for the era was the locking steering wheel, which helped in theft prevention. This technology would not become widely used throughout the market until the late 1960's. On auction day this car was sold for $52,800, falling with the low end of the estimated value. It is a brilliant and rare automobile that is one of hte few remaining survivors of this bodystyle in modern times. By Daniel Vaughan Edsel Ford knew that General Motors' marketing plan to create 'A car for every purse and ever purpose' represented the future of the automobile industry; he lobbied for years to convince his father to expand the Ford product line. Finally, in 1939 the Mercury appeared. The Mercury was priced several hundred dollars more than the Ford V-8. It was targeted at Dodge and Oldsmobile and the lower end of the Chrysler and Buick market. It was styled by E.T. 'Bob' Gregorie and the influence of Gregorie's popular Lincoln-Zephyr design is quite evident. Wheelbase was increased from 116 inches to 118 for 1940, when this convertible sedan was built. It offered its own version of the Ford V8 - 95 horsepower with hydraulic brakes. This 1940 Mercury Hollywood Coupe is powered by an original 239 V-8 engine producing 95 horsepower. It has its factory radio, grille guard, and wheel rings. Currently, the car has 47,000 original miles. By Daniel Vaughan Source: Internet

1941 Mercury Sedanca deVille

This car was built in 1940 for Peter Stengel by Coachcraft, at a cost of about $6,000. It took four months to build. The chassis is a 1941 Mercury, and the body has special fenders extending into the doors. The top is a three-way which can be positioned all the way open, open only over the front seat, or completely closed. Built-in no-draft ventilation is used. The power plant is a 1941 Mercury flathead V8, with Eddie Meyer heads, dual carburetors and a dual exhaust system. Source: Internet

1950 Mercury Bob Hope Special

Sold for $148,500 at 2009 RM Auctions. After World War II, with the G.I.s returning from Europe with a new found desire for the two-seater roadster, only a few automobile manufacturers were capable of satisfying ht need. This new craze helped give birth to an era of Sport Custom Automobiles. Backyard mechanics produced dozens of custom-built automobiles, with several creating some really stunning creations. One of those individuals was Lloyd Templeton, with the help of his sons. One of the earlier successes was the Templeton Saturn, that would run rings around the competition. It had a 1948 Mercury chassis, the original 'flathead' V8, and a rock-solid three speed manual transmission with a Columbia two-speed rear axle. It was reported that the car could surpass 100 mph. The one-of-a-kind roadster had a windscreen from an early Ford V8 that was re-worked to fit the car. The cockpit sits just in front of the rear axle, the bumpers are from a 1946 Pontiac, and the hood is from a 1936 Chrysler. The rear fins are courtesy of 1949 Chevrolet fenders, and the rear deck was originally the hood of a 1936 Ford. The chromed headlight doors are from a 1946 Studebaker and the front grille is that of a 1946 Dodge. In 1951, these very unique and special car was brought to the Minneapolis Motorama where it was presented the trophy for 'Best All Around Car.' Over the months that followed, Templeton continued to add improvements to the car. He returned to the Twin Cities a year later and was again honored with the same award. These accolades inspired a great demand for the car. It appeared on television shows in the early 1950's and was brought to special exhibitions. It was used well into the 1970's for political parades where then-current officials used it as a platform to wave to the crowds. Mr. Templteon was approached by several different automobile-related companies about using the car in their advertising campaigns. It was featured in the March 1954 edition of Ford Times in the Custom Conversions column. Along with its extensive show tour and political career, it was used by a long line of celebrities. In the early 1950's, it was invited to Hollywood, California, where it was featured at the National Car Show at the Pan-Pacific Auditorium. It was invited to the New York Auto Show by Herb Shriner. It was later used in a number of promotional campaigns related to the Miss America Pageant. When in Hollywood, it was supposed to have been used in a film with Bob Hope. The film project was scrapped, but legend has it that Bob Hope asked to drive the car and use it as he wished. After Lloyd Templeton passed away, the car was willed to his local church to use as they desired. It sat outside for over a year and was subsequently purchased by one of Templeton's sons. The current owner purchased the car from that son. In the car of its current owner, it was given a restoration and was brought back to its original award-winning appearance from when it first hit the show circuits in the early 1950's. Period photos and recollections of those who knew the car were used to complete this overwhelming project. The car is currently in excellent condition, and powered by the original Mercury V8 engine with all the performance modifications intact. In 2009, this Templeton Saturn / Bob Hope Special was offered for sale at the Automobiles of Arizona presented by RM Auctions. The lot was estimated to sell for $250,000 - $300,000. It was sold for the sum of $148,500, including buyer's premium. By Daniel Vaughan Source: Internet

1954 Mercury Sun Valley

Sold for $24,750 at 2007 RM Auctions. This 1954 Mercury Sun Valley was offered for sale at the 2007 RM Auctions held at Meadow Brook where it was listed without reserve and estimated to fetch between $30,000 - $40,000. The car is powered by a V8 engine that displaces 292 cubic-inches and capable of producing nearly 200 horsepower. The car has a three-speed automatic gearbox and four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes. This car has been treated to a recent cosmetic restoration. The vehicle is original in many respects, including the engine, paint, upholstery, transmission, and more. All are reported to be in good running condition. This car was given the optional power steering and brakes when it was purchased by its original owner. At auction, this car did find a buyer though the winning bid was a little less than the estimated value. It was sold for $24,750. Source: Internet

1953 Mercury Monterey Convertible

Sold for $19,800 at 2009 RM Auctions. This 1953 Mercury Monterey Convertible is painted in red with new chrome and stainless steel trim, a white power-operated convertible top, a white vinyl top boot, red painted steel wheels, and period correct wide whitewall tires. Inside, there is red and white vinyl interior, power windows, a dash-mounted clock and a CD player that is mounted within the glove box. The engine if a flathead V8 modified with period-style Offenhauser cylinder heads. In 2009, it was offered for sale at the Vintage Motor Cars of Meadow Brook presented by RM Auctions. It was estimated to sell for $45,000-$65,000 and was offered without reserve. The lot was sold for the sum of $19,800 including buyer's premium. Source: Internet

1958 Montclair Turn Pike Cruiser

The top of the Mercury line in 1956, the full-size Mercury Montclair was created under the Mercury Marque. The Montclair was introduced to be included in Mercury's premium automobile line. Though not much evidence exists to support this, the name is believed to have been derived from an upper class community of Montclair located in New Jersey. With a distinct design feature that set it apart and designated it a part of the Montclair series, the vehicle had contrasting color panels that ran beneath the side windows. The Montclair showcased some of Mercury's best features including the two-tone paint combinations and the additional chrome trim. The vehicle came with the option of the Merc-O-Matic automatic transmission. It also featured a 312 cubic inch V8 Engine and a 4 barrel carburetor. 1957 Turnpike Cruiser Founded by the Ford Motor Company in 1939, Mercury had begun with the ideal to design and manufacture semi-luxury vehicles. Mercury's original major success has been attributed to the Ford Marque in the early 50's as it stretched and lowered then existing Ford platforms which in turn generated superior results from their target markets. 1957 Turnpike Cruiser From 1955 to 1960, the Mercury Montclair was both manufactured and sold by the sole Mercury Division and from 1964 to 1968 by Ford's Lincoln-Mercury Division. Upon the introduction of the Mercury Turnpike cruiser in 1957, the Montclair name had the distinct misfortune to be pushed down the market until 1958. The Montclair was discontinued in 1961, yet was resurrected for the 1964 model year until it was once again retired at the end of the 1968 model year. Source: Internet

1958 Mercury Voyager

Sold for $62,700 at 2012 Russo & Steele. This 1958 Mercury Voyager Two Door Wagon has been completely restored mechanically and cosmetically and refinished in its correct Oxford Gray and Flamingo Red with correct black and red interior. All the chrome is either new or NOS and it features many rare NOS pieces. The restoration work was completed in the late 2000s. After the work was completed, it made its debut showing at the Milwaukee's Masterpiece Concours in August of 2010. This 2-Door Wagon may be the only completely restored example. Source: Internet

1947 Mercury Panel Truck

Sold for $44,000 at 2010 Gooding & Company. When peace-time resumed, Ford Motor Company of Canada introduced a line of Mercury trucks for the 1946 model year. These ranged from half-ton pickups to three-ton heavy-duty, stake-bed bodies, plus a line of school buses. These trucks were sold in Canada under the Mercury and Ford badges. There were differences between the Mercury and Ford trucks, though they were siblings, such as the Mercury truck transmission which featured all-helical gears. The Mercury trucks were powered by a 239.4 cubic-inch Flat-head V8 engine rated at 100 horsepower. There were four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes and a heavy-duty rear axle. Mercury would continue to stay in the Canadian truck business until the late 1960s, with all production coming out of the Windsor, Ontario plant. For 1947, Mercury produced 3,809 Light Trucks with fewer than 60 being the Half-Ton Panel Truck style. This example was discovered in the late 1990s in a field in Saskatchewan with its original Yosemite Green exterior. It was brought to Ontario and, over a period of seven years, restored by Mercury truck expert Ron O'Neill. The body and all sub-components were removed from its frame and acid-dipped. There was very little metal damage and small amounts of rust, plus no evidence of any body filler. The truck's chassis was stripped down to the rivets and all mechanicals, including the original engine, transmission, rear axle, suspension, brakes and ancillary components were restored. In 2010, this Mercury Panel Truck was offered for sale at Gooding & Company's auction held in Amelia Island, Florida. The car was expected to sell for $55,000 - $75,000 and offered without reserve. As bidding came to a close, the car had been sold for the sum of $44,000, inclusive of buyer's premium. Source: Internet

1946 Mercury Series 69M

Mercury was added to the Ford Motor line of cars in 1939 and was positioned between the Lincoln and Ford products. The Sportsman line of Mercury cars were produced in the Iron Mountain factory of Ford for only 6 months in 1946. The Sportman convertible, featuring wood body panels, was new to this year and only 205 such cars were built. To date there are only 5 known to be remaining. The Sportsman's wood required extensive hand finishing, and that made for a steep price: $2,209, nearly $500 more than Mercury's all-steel ragtop and $200 more than the Ford Sportsman. It was the first Mercury to feature power windows (they were standard), and like the regular convertible, the Sportsman came equipped with an 'Automatic Hydraulic-Lift Top.' Seats in the convertible and wagon were upholstered in 'tan, red or gray genuine leather.' This Mercury Sportsman was restored over a 7 year period, using maple from upper Michigan. This car was shown at the V8 Club meet in July, 2008 and the 2008 Meadow Brook Concours d'Elegance was its first appearance at a Concours. Sold for $368,500 at 2009 RM Auctions. For the 1946 model year, the 69M received a new grille. The Liquamatic Drive automatic transmission option was no longer offered. The Sportsman convertible, featuring wood body panels, was new for this year and only 205 were produced during the 1946 model year. For 1946, Mercury produced 86,603 vehicles, making it the 12th largest automaker during this era. This 1946 Mercury Sportsman was delivered new to an executive of the Youngstown Sheet and Tube Company in Ohio, one of the largest manufacturers of steel. It was traded in 1949, now showing 20,000 miles on the odometer, to Bartholomew Motors of Warren, Ohio. They sold it to Franklin Ledru Moody of Orwell, Ohio for $1,495. The car was found in 1974 and later acquired by woodie collector Donald Narus of Parma, Ohio and restored by Don Newby of Bondurant, Indiana. It later joined the collection of Curt Heaton in Corona del Mar, California, before coming into the car of Nick Alexander in 2003. This Sportsman has a Maple and Mahogany body and deep Navy Blue paint. There is a black canvas top with red piping, lined inside with tan canvas. There are lap belts in the front for two. The trunk floor is black rubber and the dashboard has restored mahogany woodgrain. Between April and December of 1946, there were just 205 examples of the Mercury Sportman convertibles built. This would be the final year of its production. In 2009, this 1946 Mercury Sportsman was offered for sale at the Sports & Classics of Monterey auction in Monterey, California presented by RM Auctions. The car was estimated to sell for $275,000-$350,000 and offered without reserve. The lot was sold for the sum of $368,500, including buyer's premium. In order to enhance this Mercury's drivability in rough terrain, renowned nature photographer Don Bleitz had it fitted wîth Marmon-Herrington four-wheel drive, creating a 'sports utility vehicle' more than forty years before the term was popularized. To further improve upon its utility, he commissioned Coachcraft of Hollywood to modify the vehicle wîth a built-in icebox for food and film, a fresh-water storage tank wîth a pressure pump, and other comforts to make overnight excursions more enjoyable. Collection of Dave Holmes Sold for $44,000 at 2008 RM Auctions. Though the war had ended and automobile production resumed, it would be several years before most automakers introduced a new product. Most just made a few changes to their pre-War line and tried to quickly settle the publics demand for vehicles. For Mercury, post-War production resumed on November 1st of 1945. This was ten days after Lincoln-Mercury had become a separate division. The face-lifted Mercury was given a new 'high-style' grille design which the public approved. A total of 86,608 examples were sold making them the tenth-highest volume for 1946. The Mercury's cost around $190 more than the Super DeLuxe Ford V8, and came with a four-inch longer wheelbase, upgraded upholstery, interior trimmings, and exterior trim. The 'flathead' V8 engine provided a hefty 100-horsepower which was controlled by four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes. Both the Fords and Mercury's rode on a unique front-and-rear transverse leaf spring suspension. They made have been not as modern as some other setups on the road, but they worked really well and provided superior handling. This 1946 Mercury Convertible is one of the few that has avoided a conversion into a hot rod or drag racer. Instead, it has been recently restored and painted in Moonstone Grey with a deep maroon leather interior, and black power convertible top. In 2008 it was brought to the Automobiles of Amelia presented by RM Auctions where it was estimated to sell for $50,000-$60,000. It was offered without reserve and sold for the sum of $44,000 including buyer's premium. Source: Internet

1954 Mercury Monterey XM-800 Concept

The one-of-a-kind XM-800 was conceived by Mercury's Pre-Production Studio, headed at the time by John Najjar and built by Creative Industries of Detroit in 1953. Intended targets were GM's Buick, Pontiac and Oldsmobile divisions. Despite rave reviews among the press and public, a strategic decision by Ford saw the creation of Edsel to fulfill this purpose, it incorporated an updated version of Mercury's overhead-valve, 312 cid, V8 named the Y-block. It introduced previously unseen styling cues in Ford products: fins, Frenched headlamps, canted windshield pillars and sail panels, clean sides with concealed wheels and a hint of emerging technologies in the fiberglass body and fully chrome-plated fiberglass bumpers. Many styling cues appeared on the Lincoln Ford Mercury products in subsequent years. This 1954 Mercury Monterey XM800 was first shown to the public at the 1954 Detroit Auto Show. It was built for Ford by Creative Industries of Detroit, Michigan and was designed by the Mercury pre-production studio with John Najjar serving as the studio manager. Elwood Engle worked on the project as well, serving as a consultant assigned by George Walker's design firm. Benson Ford promoted the idea of creating the car as a second Mercy car line which could compete with Buick, Pontiac, and Oldsmobile. Promotional material of the time stated 'advanced design, engineered to go into volume production.' The vehicle was never put into production. Rather, Mercury was made into a distinct mid-sized car and the Edsel division was made into its own marque. The car was promoted throughout the year at various auto shows. It was also featured in the 1954 20th Century Fox Film entitled Woman's World, starring Clifton Webb, Van Heflin, Cornel Wilde, Fred MacMurray, June Allyson and Lauren Bacall. A model of the car was made famous by appearing in boxes of Post's Grape Nuts Flakes. The XM 800 was donated to the University of Michigan's Automotive Engineering Lab in 1957 for training and inspiration. The XM-800 was a 'push car', meaning that it was not drivable. The car was pushed or towed wherever it went. It had a completely functional V8 engine with a transmission that was nothing more than an empty case. The decision to keep the car non-functional was for cost saving measures. The exterior of the car was dramatic, futuristic, and had many bold edges. The interior was just as futuristic, incorporating many ideas that could one day be used on production vehicles. It had a 'deep dish' steering wheel with a shorter steering column that was more energy absorbing in case of an accident. The radio knobs were moved from the face of the dash to below the radio faceplate. The prior locate had been considered a safety hazard. After the concept vehicle had outlived its usefulness, the university auctioned it off and was purchased by a private citizen. The car was brought to central Michigan where it was stored in a barn. The owner never returned. The owner had paid for only a years worth of rent. After several years had gone by, and the owner of the barn was in need of room, the car was moved outside alongside the barn. The car was spotted in the late 1970's by Dan Brook. After doing some research, they realized it was a 'dream car' from the 1950's. They purchased it from the farmer who was nearing the decision to bring it to a dump. Dan began work on restoring the car, disassembling it and preparing it for the work that was to follow. After figuring out the cost of the project, Dan decided to put the car back together and advertise it for sale in Hemmings for $30,000. The car caught the attention of car collector Joe Bortz who kept in contact with Dan over the next three years. Dan was holding out for a higher offer than what Joe was offering. A deal was finally reached in late 1987 between the two parties and the car was sold. Having over 30 other concept cars, Joe had plans to restore the XM-800 the work was never completed. He did get it running and installed a working transmission. The car was put up for sale on eBay in September of 2008 and was purchased by the current owner. The new owner undertook the monumental task of disassembling and refinishing the entire car. The work was done to great detail, resurrecting one of the great concepts from the 1950s. Upon completion, the car was put on display at the 2009 Meadow Brook Concours d'Elegance. More information about the car can be found on the owner's website at tbirdsquare.com. By Daniel Vaughan | Mar 2011 Source: Internet

1959 Mercury Country Cruiser

Mercury offered several versions of its Country Cruiser station wagon in 1959. This white, two-door wagon is a Commuter and one of only 1,051 two-door wagons mercury produced that year (compared to more than 20,000 four-door models). The Commuter was powered by a 383 cubic-inch V8 engine that pumped out 280 horsepower. This Commuter is on its second owner who purchased it in 1999 after being stored for years. It is un-restored. It features a power rear window, remote side mirror and factory air-conditioning, a $385 option in 1959. Mercury continued to go its own way in 1959, with 'dream-car design' straight out of the jet-age. The massive body and chassis was carryover from 1957-58, but sheet metal was all-new. The top-of-the-line Colony Park featured flashy hardtop styling, aircraft-inspired side sculpturing and simulated wood paneling. 'Mercury is the one car in its class which does not use a dressed-up body shared with a lower priced car,' noted the 1959 Mercury brochure. But that would change in 1961, when Mercury was demoted, becoming a fancy version of the standard Ford. With this move, FoMoCo's costly late Fifties assault on GM was unsuccessfully concluded. This 1959 Colony Park made its concours debut at the 2012 St. Johns Concours following a three-year restoration. It was originally purchased on July 30, 1959 from Fred Jones Ford-Mercury in Oklahoma City. Equipment on this luxury wagon includes a 430 cubic-inch V8 with a Multi-Drive three-speed automatic transmission, power steering, power brakes, air conditioning, power windows, four-way power seats, remote mirrors, seat belts and radio. Mercury continued to go its own way in 1959, with 'dream-car design' straight out of the jet-age. The massive body and chassis was carryover from 1957-58, but sheet metal was all-new. The top-of-the-line Colony Park featured flashy hardtop styling, aircraft-inspired side sculpturing and simulated wood paneling. 'Mercury is the one car in its class which does not use a dressed-up body shared with a lower priced car,' noted the 1959 Mercury brochure. But that would change in 1961, when Mercury was demoted, becoming a fancy version of the standard Ford. With this move, FoMoCo's costly late Fifties assault on GM was unsuccessfully concluded. This 1959 Colony Park made its concours debut at the 2012 St. Johns Concours following a three-year restoration. It was originally purchased on July 30, 1959 from Fred Jones Ford-Mercury in Oklahoma City. Equipment on this luxury wagon includes a 430 cubic-inch V8 with a Multi-Drive three-speed automatic transmission, power steering, power brakes, air conditioning, power windows, four-way power seats, remote mirrors, seat belts and radio. The Mercury County Cruiser was intended for the larger family with room 9-passengers or less. In 1959, the family could join together on a very enjoyable road trip with ample room with the addition of a hideaway third seat. This hideaway seat only take a few seconds to change from a 6- to a 9- passenger vehicle. The panoramic windshield surrounded not only the sides but also the back, which gave the Mercury County Cruiser an open air feel. Featuring free-flow ventilation, the roll-down back windows allowed for easier loading and much more cargo space. The liftgate was eliminated so loading was much easier, and the window can be power-operated by merely a control on the instrument panel. The 1959 Mercury County Cruiser came in a variety of three models, the Voyager, the Commuter and the Colony Park. All of these models came with a hidden ‘below-deck' compartment with an additional 4 cubic feet, hardtop styling and an all-clear loading platform. Much more than other station wagons, the County Cruiser gave you an additional 101.1 cubic feet of carrying space behind the front space. A total of 1,051 Commuter two-door station wagons were produced, 2,496 Voyager four-doors, 15,122 four-door, six-passenger station wagons, 5,959 Colony Park four-door, six-passenger station wagons and 2,496 Voyager four-door, six-passenger station wagons. The power operation was optional on the Commuter, but standard equipment for both the Colony Park and the Voyager. The Mercury Country Cruiser featured a panoramic skylight windshield with 1883 square inch area, with welded steel rigidized body construction. The interior featured an aircraft-type instrument panel, a safety steering wheel, while the exterior had safety-sweep electric powered windshield wipers, front-hinged hood and convertible-type doors for all hardtop models. The top-of-the-line full-size station wagon, the Mercury Colony Park was offered by Mercury between 1957 and 1991. Sharing the same woodgrain paneling on the bodyside and tailgate as the Ford Country Squire and the Edsel Bermuda wagons, the Colony Park was a pillarless hardtop model until 190 when it was switched to pillared styling for 1961. In 1957, Mercury grouped all of its station wagons into their own series. The Colony Park featured Ford's two-way Magic Doorgate in 1966. The Doorgate was designed to fold down like a conventional tailgate and also swung sideways much like a door. The 1967 Colony Park showcased Ford's dual-facing rear seats. For 1969 the full-size Mercury wagons were restyled and were no longer considered a separate series, and the Colony Park became a member of the Marquis series. In this same year the Magic Doorgate was revised so that it could be swung sideways without having to roll the window down. For the 1973-1978 generation, the Colony Park got as large as it ever would be before Mercury downsized it for 1979. In 1992 the Colony Park station wagon was dropped from Mercury's lineup and the Grand Marquis was redesigned with aero-styling. Unfortunately minivans and SUVs took precedence at this time over full-size station wagons. The Chevy Caprice and the Buick Roadmaster Estate were the last of the full-size stations wagons and production ended in 1996. By Jessica Donaldson Source: Internet

1997 Mercury MC4

Mercury MC4 concept car redefines sports coupe design for the next century The Mercury MC4, an innovative concept car that combines precision technology and sleek looks wîth the practicality and versatility of a family car, will be featured at the 1997 Chicago Auto Show at McCormick Place. 'The MC4 redefines our ideas about sports coupe design,' said Tom Scott, director, Advanced Design. 'It is designed wîth the needs of today's diverse and active lifestyles in mind and shows that sports coupes can be practical when it comes to carrying passengers and their belongings in comfort.' While the car's dynamic exterior unmistakably takes sports coupe design as its inspiration, the MC4's large interior cabin can accommodate four adults plus a child in an integrated child seat. The trunk is large enough to handle suitcases, golf clubs, a child's stroller and other items. The rich gray-green body surface combines smooth, sculpted lines wîth clean, crisp intersections. This reflects the Ford-inspired New Edge approach to automotive design. The overall result is a sharper, more defined image that results from MC4's emphasis on precision and fun driving performance. 'The MC4 looks as good on the outside as it feels on the inside,' said Jim O'Connor, Ford vice president in charge of Mercury. 'This car is perfect for Mercury customers who don't want to give up design style for their active lifestyle. The MC4 can handle it all wîth flair.' A novel feature of the MC4 is its quad-door entry system. The innovative reverse door system incorporates two front doors, which are shorter than those on a traditional sports coupe and are easily opened in tight spaces such as garages and parking lots. Behind the front doors are two half-doors that open out toward the tail of the car. These half-doors cannot open until the front doors open. The result is a practical solution, providing easy entry to and exit from the rear seat area while maintaining the sleek lines of a sports coupe. Attention to detail and precision engineering are hallmarks of the exterior design. The distinctive grille features a nickel chrome-plated bar that provides a unique appearance. High intensity discharge headlamps ensure excellent visibility even on the darkest roads. The large red taillamps use a laser design. The MC4 is equipped wîth cast 19-inch five-spoke wheels. The wheels, in combination wîth 255/40 R19 Goodyear low-profile tires, are pushed to the edge of the body, giving the car a dramatic stance that underlines its performance character. Large Brembo brakes wîth slotted rotors can bring the car to a rapid stop. Flexibility also is a major theme of the MC4. It features twin, parallel sliding glass sunroof panels that can be opened individually. A 'gull-wing' style trunk lid adds a new level of versatility to trunk design. The half-lid, gull-wing sections of the trunk lid are raised from just above either rear wheel well to allow easy access. Inside, three-point safety belts are integrated into each of the four front and rear bucket seats, eliminating the trailing safety belt. Thanks to the MC4's structural integrity, the car does not require a B-pillar, allowing easier access to the rear of the interior cabin. The bucket seats take their inspiration from aircraft seats, blending hard and soft forms. The sense of safety and solidity is enhanced because the seats are an integral component of the car. Exposed brushed metal structures house the fully integrated safety belt system. These qualities are balanced by the comfort of the seats. Soft leather is used on all surfaces that come into contact wîth the passenger. The seat wraps itself around the driver and passengers for a snug, secure feeling and to provide strong lateral support. An integrated front-facing child seat unfolds from the center console and snaps securely into position between the two rear seats, eliminating the need to carry a portable unit. A center console running the length of the floor features cup holders for hot or cold beverages and includes an integrated television for rear seat passengers. The screen pops up from the console and can be used to watch favorite programs or as a game unit. With the child seat folded away, the rear seats also can be folded forward, providing a cargo-carrying load space that extends from the trunk to the back of the front seats. 'Touch areas' -- those that come into contact wîth the driver or passengers -- are executed in soft leather and fabrics for comfort. Functional items, such as button controls and instrumentation, and trim details use metals for a solid, engineered feel. The intent is to merge style and advanced technology in an unexpected but practical fashion. The MC4 is a driver-friendly car. The driver sits behind a retractable §teering column that adjusts to his or her personal preference. The leather-wrapped §teering wheel provides a comfortable grip and extra control. It also includes the buttons for the speed control and CD/radio system. The instrument panel has electroluminescent analog gauges that feature black numerals on a white background for clear, precise information. The main gauges are housed in a moveable cluster that adjusts wîth the rake and angle of the §teering column so that they always are in easy view of the driver. Foot pedals and a footrest are adjustable. Pushing a button located on the console starts the MC4's engine. In theory, the MC4, equipped wîth a V-8, could be powered by a variety of powertrains. The engine prime button also activates three video-imaging cameras, which are designed to improve rear visibility. Two cameras, located in each of the sail panels, extend out from their protected flush pockets. Images are displayed on two screens that rise from the instrument panel at the base of each A-pillar. A third camera is mounted underneath the rear spoiler, and its image is projected on a screen that replaces the center-mounted rearview mirror. The MC4's driver-focused technology also includes an advanced global positioning satellite (GPS) navigation system. The GPS screen appears in place of the center-mounted rearview mirror at the touch of a button to give the driver the latest information needed to plan a journey. Driving safety is enhanced by use of intelligent speed control that automatically adjusts the speed of the MC4 as it approaches vehicles from behind. The car also features RESCÚ, the Remote Emergency Satellite Cellular Únit, which can alert emergency services when required. The MC4 is equipped wîth a 12-speaker CD/radio unit that was designed by Ford's Automotive Components Division Advanced Audio Group. The system features two sub-woofers located underneath the trunk floor along wîth two center imaging speakers directed toward the passengers from a position behind the center console. The other speakers are placed throughout the interior of the car for optimal audio enjoyment. 'The MC4 appeals to people who know life as a participation sport,' said O'Connor, 'and will need vehicles that offer a total transportation solution to facilitate their wide range of interests. The Mercury MC4 concept offers customers fun and flexibility wîth flair.' Source - Ford

1999 Mercury My Concept

The Mercury 'MY' Concept was introduced at the 1999 North American Auto Show. It was designed by J. Mays, the same individual responsible for the Volkswagen New Beetle. Thus, there are several similarities such as the curved roof line found on both the New Beetle and the Mercury My. The Mercury My is fitted with two amber glass panels and suicide-style doors that are center-opening. The interior features a center console that houses a mouse-like ball which controls the sound system, integrated global positioning system, and the climate controls. Source: Internet

2003 Mercury Messenger Concept

In ancient Roman mythology, Mercury was the god of speed and agility and the messenger of the heavens. At the North American International Auto Show, Mercury is a brand sending a message that modern design will lead its rejuvenation, beginning wîth its new Messenger concept coupe. Mercury is returning to its roots as a design leader introducing the Messenger concept, a distinctive and energetic high-performance two-seat sports coupe. The Messenger concept car represents the first expression of Mercury's new design DNA wîth a clean, technical appearance that begins to establish the look of Mercury products still to come. Mercury will introduce four new products over the next four years including a minivan, a small sport utility, and two cars. 'The body surface reflects the car's power and grace, wîth flowing body lines that are accented wîth purposeful air intakes and outlets,' says Gerry McGovern, design director, Lincoln Mercury. 'The dynamic fluidity of the Messenger's lean and taut form is expressed at rest as much as it is in movement.' Exterior Design The Messenger's proportions are the direct result of the dramatic vehicle architecture—clean and sculpted wîth a tautness and agility that transcends the vehicle's design and handling characteristics. It is a vehicle designed to be uncompromised in capability and performance. The long hood houses a powerful 4.6-liter modular V-8 engine. The energetic stance and supple appearance of the Messenger are enhanced by 20-inch wheels wîth 305mm wide tires on the rear and 19-inch wheels wîth 275mm wide tires on the front—a tire/wheel combination that allows the car to firmly put down onto the pavement all the power the V-8 can generate. The spoke wheels have a turbine theme, wîth vanes that reflect the appearance of the Mercury 'flying M' logo. The functional vanes help direct airflow over the vented brake disc and high performance brake calipers, further communicating the car's high performance capabilities. One aspect of Mercury's future design DNA is embodied by the stacked element theme at the front of the vehicle wîth distinctive front lights and vertical grill elements. The rear lights convey the DNA message wîth sequential taillights that repeat the thémé. Large, beautifully sculpted front air scoops and outlets at the front and rear of the vehicle provide a purposeful and powerful look. Interior Design The compact and efficient exterior package provides a cockpit-like driving environment inside, wîth the cockpit placed directly between the wheels to further emphasize the car's proportions. The Messenger interior is designed to be taut, innovative, and functional—technologically advanced, yet intuitive to use, providing creative stowage and space within a compact package. The interior is the embodiment of Mercury's new DNA direction. The design of the door panels echoes the shape of the exterior body side feature, wîth the interior armrest resting upon the shape of the exterior air vent sheet metal on the doors. The design of the doors emphasizes the perception of a protective environment. All displays in the cockpit emit minimum levels of information to facilitate quick and concise driver response. The instrument panel is designed wîth primary focus zones that have intuitive interfaces to keep the driver constantly informed. Switchgear is minimized to reduce distraction. 'This vehicle is driver-focused, from the commanding seating position to the way the vehicle interfaces wîth the person behind the wheel,' says McGovern. 'Úse of the controls inside the cockpit is intuitive.' The seats in the Messenger are mounted laterally to the tunnel and rocker panel to further strengthen the lightweight aluminum hydro-formed monocoque, while forming part of the integral occupant safety cell. The central console incorporates a centrally mounted chronograph. The clock, like all key elements, is in close proximity to the driver to allow split-second comprehension and reaction during high-performance driving. A Look Back—A Look Ahead Design inspiration for the Mercury Messenger goes back to Mercury's roots and gives a message of where Mercury is going in the future. In Roman mythology, Mercury was not only the messenger of the gods. This son of Zeus was also god of commerce and travel. He was accurate, reliable, and swift. Edsel Ford's vision at Mercury's start in 1938 was to produce vehicles that were refined wîth an emphasis on design. Reliability and swiftness were admirable attributes for a new automotive brand. Similarly, Mercury's modern mission is to capture the American driving experience through innovation and design. McGovern on Messenger and Mercury Design 'Messenger is about taut, dynamic surfaces. It's charismatic and modern,' says McGovern. 'It's about intelligence, connectivity, and it's about distinction. All of these themes will be developed further in Mercury cars and trucks of the near future. 'The Mercury Messenger may be the ultimate dream car—but what it represents is the essence of what Mercury is becoming. 'Mercury is to be a design-driven brand—the Mercury DNA is delivering vehicles that are energetic, distinctive, intelligent, and charismatic,' says McGovern. 'On the outside, its vehicles will feature proportion and package efficiency wîth optimized surface language that is clean and simple, lean and taut, wîth drama of attitude, produced wîth a product design approach. 'The next-generation Mercury products will feature a distinct new front-end appearance wîth vertically stacked elements combined wîth a horizontal grille thémé. They'll have a family resemblance, but be distinct in their own automotive genre. Interiors will provide a contemporary environment that is technically advanced, wîth innovative seating, comfort wîth simplicity, using high-tech materials. Functions that interface wîth the driver and passengers will be logical and storage opportunities will be creative, says McGovern.' Mercury Messenger Technical Specifications General The Mercury Messenger is a high performance, two-seat sports car powered by a V-8 classically driving the rear wheels. Engine/Drive train • Front engine, rear wheel drive. • All-aluminum 4.6-liter DOHC V-8 • 6-speed automatic sequential gearbox Body and Chassis Únique monocoque construction using a composite / aluminum hybrid 'tub' chassis wîth super-formed aluminum panels bonded to it. The result is a body wîth high torsional rigidity providing excellent ride and handling properties. Occupant protection is enhanced and noise/vibration/harshness (NVH) is reduced by this method of construction. Wheels/Brakes/Suspension • Rear 18 spoke 20 x 10J cast alloy wheels wîth Goodyear 305/40R20 tires • Front 18 spoke 19 x 9J cast alloy wheels wîth Goodyear 275/40/R19 tires • High performance Brembo power assisted brakes, anti-lock brake system using Electronic Brake Force Distribution • Front—355mm vented discs wîth 4 piston calipers • Rear—355mm vented discs wîth 4 piston calipers • Computer active suspension adjusts ride height and dynamics to suit driving style, speed, and road conditions wîth 'intelligent' traction control • Electronically actuated parking brake Steering • Power assisted variable ratio rack and pinion Dimensions • Length 4533mm / 178.5' • Width 1938mm / 76.3' • Height 1304mm / 51.3' • Wheelbase 2825mm / 111.2' • Front track 1662mm / 65.4' • Rear track 1650mm / 65' • Trunk volume 340 liters • Legroom 1084mm / 42.6' • Headroom 943mm / 38' Safety and Security • Integral safety cell structure • Personal Safety System • Global vehicle theft location system • Self-leveling high-intensity 'projector' headlamps • LED Source - Mercury