Vehicle Description
I don't care what you say, the '70s are cool, and this 1973 Mercury
Cougar XR7 convertible totally rocks the disco decade. With a very
attractive color combination, a 351 Cleveland V8, and the usual
Mercury luxury touches, it's once again the grown-up's alternative
to the Mustang.
The fact that the Mercury was the Mustang's more mature cousin
doesn't mean dull, and you can tell at a glance that this XR7 wants
to party. There's a big hood scoop, a rear wing, and a rumbling
dual exhaust, not to mention those chrome wheels, all of which add
up to a car that's got no problems handing out beatings on Friday
night. The color is called Medium Chestnut Metallic, continuing
Ford's tradition of ultra-lame color names but totally getting the
coppery hue exactly right. It's been repainted, but it was a while
ago, so the finish has a vintage look that could almost pass for
original. There's no evidence that it's ever been hit or rusty and
by adding the strip of satin black paint along the rocker panels,
the car looks long and sleek. There's a nice shine to the paint and
with a gold pinstripe running the length of the bodywork, it
highlights the more dramatic shape. The gothic grille and heavy
chrome bumpers are part of the 1970s appeal and those taillights
are instantly recognizable a mile away (literally!).
The Medium Ginger interior is the perfect complement to the bronze
bodywork and we like it a lot more than plain old white or black.
High-back buckets look more luxurious and upscale than those found
in the Mustang and the door panels are deeply sculpted for a very
cockpit-oriented feel once you're inside. A modern wood-rimmed
wheel is the only notable deviation from stock and it's welcome
here. Plush carpets and a nice dash pad suggest this car has always
led an easy life and if you've driven a Mustang, at least the
gauges will seem familiar including the factory tach! A modern
AM/FM/CD/iPod stereo takes the place of the original stereo and it
powers a set of speakers in the doors and rear side panels. Other
options include power windows and locks, a center console, and a
snug-fitting tan power convertible top with glass rear window.
There's also a good-sized trunk with the original mat and a
full-sized spare tire with cover.
The 351 cubic inch "Cleveland" V8 was the top motor in the Cougar
in 1973 and it's been modestly upgraded from the original spec.
Under that triangular air cleaner you'll find a Holley 4-barrel
carburetor, an Edelbrock aluminum intake manifold, and a Mallory
distributor, all of which give this small block a big shot of
performance. The engine bay is also nicely detailed with Ford Blue
engine enamel, a few choice chrome parts, and bright red ignition
components to tie it all together. You'll also find power steering
and brakes, plus a giant radiator to keep it cool. A C4 3-speed
automatic transmission snaps off clean gear changes and the dual
exhaust system uses Flowmaster mufflers and a set of cut-outs to
deliver a muscular sound that's a great warning to other motorists.
It's clean and solid underneath and those big chrome Cragar mags
look awesome with 245/60/15 front and 255/60/15 rear BFG
rubber.
An unusual car that delivers plenty of performance and a bit of
unique style, all at a very reasonable price. Add in the perfect
period color combination and you'll be ready to step back in time.
Call today!
