Vehicle Description
The 1973 Mercury Cougar XR7 marked a turning point for the model.
Here's a look at its features and its place in the Cougar's
history: Shifting Gears: From Pony Car to Luxury The 1973 XR7
belonged to the second generation of the Cougar (1971-1973), which
moved away from the ""pony car"" design of the first generation
(1967-1970) and shared its platform with the Ford Mustang. While
still sporty, the 1973 XR7 became more luxurious, competing with
cars like the Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme. This shift reflected
broader market trends towards personal luxury coupes. Big Cat Style
The 1973 XR7 boasted a larger and more squared-off body style
compared to its earlier counterparts. This design change aligned
with the early 70s trend of bigger, more imposing vehicles. It
retained the sequential turn signals, a distinctive feature
introduced in the 1967 Cougar, adding a touch of sophistication.
The XR-7 offered a convertible option for those seeking open-air
driving excitement, though 1973 was the last year convertibles were
produced for the Cougar due to upcoming safety regulations. Power
Under the Hood The standard engine in the 1973 XR-7 was a 351
Cleveland V8 by Ford, offering decent horsepower and torque. It
came with a two-barrel carburetor, but higher performance options
were available. Automatic transmission was the norm, but some
models featured a desirable four-speed manual transmission. Luxury
on the Inside The XR-7 was known for its luxurious interior,
featuring wood-grain paneling, power features like windows and
seats, and air conditioning. This focus on comfort further
solidified its place in the personal luxury car segment. The Last
of the Breed The 1973 model year marked the final year for the
Cougar sharing its platform with the Mustang. The 1974 Cougar would
become even larger and more luxurious, solidifying its shift away
from its pony car roots. Interestingly, a light blue/white 1973
Cougar XR-7 convertible is believed to be the last convertible
assembled by Ford before a pause in convertible production in the
US due to safety regulations. A Collectible Classic Today, the 1973
Mercury Cougar XR7 is a sought-after classic for car enthusiasts
who appreciate its blend of muscle car heritage, luxurious
features, and unique place in automotive history.
