Edsel Ford accomplished many things for the Ford Motor Company, some great and some that took the company in directions it probably wouldn’t have gone without him. In the late 1930’s Edsel recognized that there was a need for a middle priced car that the Ford Deluxe could not reach as it was still on the lower end of the spectrum. The same went for the Lincoln Zephyr that was priced just below the full custom Lincoln K, being on the higher end of the spectrum. Both leaving the middle class without a car that really appealed to them from Ford. With the depression winding down the middle class was where the most growth was occurring and while Ford offered a fantastic entry into the automobile, they didn’t have anything to compete with the Pontiacs, Oldsmobiles and Dodges. Edsel listened to his sales people and dealers who explained that as Ford customers gained a bit more money they were being converted into General Motors customers. So Ford introduced the Mercury in 1939, priced right in between the Ford Deluxe and the Lincoln Zephyr. 40,000 cars were sold in the first year and that number jumped to over 77,000 in 1940 proving its popularity.
The Mercury’s wheelbase of 116” was 2” longer than the comparable Ford. Its V-8 engine was a bit larger at 239 cubic inches putting out 95hp compared with the Ford’s 90hp. The styling and design was also mixed between the Ford and Lincoln-Zephyr with features recalling both lines creating one of the best looking cars ever to come out of the Ford Motor company. Especially the 1940 Mercury convertibles, customizers of the era quickly recognized the ‘40 Mercury convertibles potential making it one of the most iconic and sought after cars for customization. Most notably the 1940 Mercury customized by Sam Barris that has become one of the most well known customs of the 1940’s. Today it is very hard to find an original 1940 Mercury that has not been customized and even more rare to find one that hasn’t been restored at all. One of the holy grails of flathead Fords.
Offered here is an extremely rare sighting, an all original 1940 Mercury convertible that has never been restored or customized. Found in a barn here in Connecticut where it had been sitting for the last 50 years. Stored dry, this Mercury is rust free and has just been treated to a mechanical service including a fuel system rebuild as well as a new gas tank, new brakes and new tires. The top and interior have also been restored as it was needed. The original Mercury flathead runs extremely well and it drives great. It is so original that even the original running boards are still intact. This is one of the best original 1940 Mercury convertibles in existence. If you are looking for one, this is your chance to have an incredible original car. Contact us today for more information.
