Vehicle Description
~ The Ultimate Hot Rod~ Originators of the custom car industry Sam
and George Barris chose the 50s Mercurys as their first models to
work with since these cars were visually appealing and easier than
most to customize. The slab-sided bodies, fadeaway fenders and
split front windshield made them less complicated to "chop," or
lower, the top. This Mercury coupe is considered a mild chop. Built
in the 1990s by Leonard Gidney of New Mexico, its entire life was
spent there, away from any salt and inclement weather. The fit and
finish are still immaculate, and the Dust Rose color is beautifully
paired with its white interior. Interesting features on this build
are that the front is all-steel and the bumpers are welded into the
car. Also of note: the windshield glass was inserted from inside
the car, eliminating any windshield frame. Custom built by Johnny
Gray of Gray Motorsports in Artesia, New Mexico, the 355 cubic inch
engine runs smoothly, as it should. The owner has always used
non-ethanol fuel. Note the Edelbrock 4-bbl carburetor, electronic
ignition, and electronic VDO gauges. Accessories include Vintage
air conditioning, power steering, power brakes, 4-way power bucket
seats (driver and passenger), power windows, cruise control, and a
Lecarra leather-wrapped tilt steering wheel. Custom chrome wheels
are completed with BF Goodrich radial tires (205 75R 14-inch). The
doors and trunk open with a push of the button, thanks to an
electric key fob. Sound comes from an AM/FM stereo with a CD player
and six Jensen speakers. This thrilling all-steel resto-mod drives
as brand new and is the ultimate hot rod. It has excellent road
manners and handles better than expected. It's a pleasure to drive
and will certainly be a hit at the next cruisin'.
