For Sale: 1940 Mercury Convertible in Charlotte, North Carolina

For 1939, Edsel Ford introduced the new Mercury brand as an upscale, sporty, even youthful alternative to Ford, but a more affordable option than a Lincoln. With a number of distinct nuances separating it from the Fords, it proved to be a unique option for the market, but the loftier price, similar styling and impending possibility of the United States entering World War II kept sales slow. As such, early Mercurys are fairly rare specimens, and finding one that's been customized is truly unique. This 1940 Mercury Convertible has been extensively customized into a street rod complete with a Mustang II front end, 6.2L LS3 V-8 engine, 4L65E automatic transmission, Baer Brakes and Goodyear Eagle Sport tires.

The engine has been treated to Holley fuel injection, a powdercoated exhaust system with headers and custom Mercury valve covers, all nestled within an engine bay that's been finished to match the burgundy exterior. A custom-fitted burgundy convertible top protects the cream-colored interior by Paul Atkins, which is fitted with an AR steering wheel wrapped in matching cream-colored leather with polished aluminum, a Kenwood AM/FM stereo system, Dakota Digital gauges and custom air vents. Bucket seats were donated from a Lexus SC and look supportive and right at home. A custom center console separates the seats, while custom door panels largely wrap up the overall look. The burgundy exterior finish is dressed with a minimum amount of brightwork, including chrome bumpers and headlight surrounds, twin sideview mirrors and side trim, and massive wheels.

Specs:

Custom '40 Mercury Convertible

Nosed and decked body

Shaved door handles

Frenched taillights

LS3 6.2L V8

Holley electronic fuel injection

Custom Mercury coil covers

4L65E Automatic overdrive transmission

Ford 9in rear axle 3.50 gears

Power rack and pinion steering

Modern Air Conditioning

Full custom leather interior by Paul Atkins

Updated Dakota Digital gauges

Power windows

Tilt steering column

Mustang II style suspension with coil over shocks front

Leaf spring rear suspension with lowering blocks

18" and 20" polished aluminum wheels with Goodyear Eagle tires

Four wheel power disc brakes

Performance Baer calipers and rotors