For Sale: 1973 Mercury Cougar XR7 in Mooresville, North Carolina

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.