For Sale: 1961 Mercury Monterey in Lutz, Florida

Mercury was the kind of brand that offered premium distinction, and this 1961 Mercury Monterey is the exact kind of car that proves it. With big V8 power, a cool color theme, and distinct features (like real Cragar wire wheels), this is a nice classic offered for a value price.

The Monterey was new for 1961, and there was plenty of Lincoln-level style in the design. It could have been a cousin to the Continental with its quad headlights, beautiful wraparound chrome front bumper, and full-length trim that crisply defined the profile. Plus, the rear design with the hint of tailfin and artfully done tail lights wouldn't have looked out of place as the rival Cadillac! The light green paint is an update later in life, and it has the glossy look of a quality application. The addition of the white roof gives this an added degree of sophistication while also drawing extra attention to the formal look of the hardtop. And the Cragar Star Wire wheels give the coupe even more distinction without losing any period-correct feel.

The full turquoise interior feels like a harmonizing color with the exterior green. The feeling inside is all about vintage authenticity. And in a full-size Mercury like this, that means plenty of room for people to spread out over two wide bench seats. And if your passengers love vintage details as much as you do, they'll be pointing out everything from the cool/correct Mercury logo floor mat to the AM radio that's there for display. Also, a very cool touch is the classic Polaraire air conditioning system that's now set up to run on modern R134a refrigerant (it likely just needs a recharge to blow ideally cold again.) And you'll love sitting in the driver's seat, getting the classic feel of the steering wheel, and gazing across the stylized brightwork of the dash.

Under the hood is the correct X-code 352 cubic-inch V8 motor. The engine bay presents exceptionally well with the blue valve covers and air cleaner looking so distinct against the tidy black setup. Not only does the V8 look good, but it also fires up with the eagerness of a well-respected motor. Having a Monterey like this is about reconnecting with a time when dad let you borrow his car for a big date, or you snuck it out so you and all your friends could have the ultimate Friday night in one car. And if you're too young for that, here's the perfect machine to make memories like this. That's because with a three-speed automatic transmission, power steering, power brakes, and a suspension that will keep you floating down the road, this Mercury is the ideal cruising coupe.

Complete with owner's manual this is all the best nostalgia on wheels. So don't let this fun and distinct Monterey go into someone else's garage. Call today!!!