Vehicle Description
People who don't know performance may scoff at this 1973 Mercury
Comet, but guys in the know understand that this neat coupe has a
better power-to-weight ratio than the Mustang and the production
figures are a fraction of the more famous pony car. Fast, rare, and
affordable? Maybe it's time to have a closer look at the Comet.
The Comet's lines have aged rather well, with the new-fastback
profile accentuating the long hood and short deck theme that
created the Mustang. Repainted a few years ago in basic black, it
has a clean, purposeful look and you'll likely get more than a few
folks asking for more information when you stop for gas. Is it
perfect? No, but go find another one that's led an easy life like
this one has. It hasn't been modified and it didn't require major
surgery to get back into shape, and while there are a few signs of
use, the overall look is pretty darned nice. We like the white
pinstripe that highlights the gentle curve of the fenders and they
didn't shave or delete any of the original trim. There's a very
clean, straight grille up front, correct 'Comet' script on the sail
panels, and blacked-out bumpers for an updated look. Believe us,
this car will definitely get its share of second glances.
The interior is in excellent condition and if we had to guess, we'd
say that the seat covers and carpets are new, but everything else
may very well be original. It's basic, yes, but that's part of the
appeal with cars like this, and a few minor upgrades make a big
difference. There's a fat wood-rimmed steering wheel, for example,
which adds a sporty look without changing the overall vibe. You
also get a pair of round dials that are reminiscent of the
Mustang's instrument panel and the markings are still clear and
easy to read. Remarkably, the original AM radio remains in the
dash, and in 1973, that was standard fare in the Comet, along with
a heater and defroster and little else. The back seat is in
excellent condition and is roomy enough for real-sized adults and
there's a nice, big trunk that looks to be in excellent order.
Pop the hood and you'll see where the real money was spent: a 302
cubic inch V8, better known as the 5.0, and it gives this Comet
some real performance credentials. There are plenty of upgrades
from its humble 1973 specifications, including a 4-barrel
carburetor, so it's potent without being fussy. It's nicely
detailed under the hood, too, including the finned valve covers and
matching air cleaner, as well as bright Ford Blue paint on the
block, giving it a very correct look. You'll also find power
steering on the options list, making this Comet easy to handle even
with the fat rubber on the ground. It's backed by a C4 3-speed
automatic transmission and original 8-inch rear end, so the
components are rugged enough to put up with some fun, and the
cackling Flowmaster dual exhaust definitely has that Ford 5.0
performance sound. The floors show off years in a warm climate and
the late-model Mustang wheels look exactly right on this vintage
Comet, especially wearing right-sized 225/50/17 Firestone radials
all around.
You won't see one of these at every cruise-in and the low curb
weight and strong-running V8 make it a ton of fun to drive. Get
into the game with something that'll stand out and doesn't cost a
fortune. Call today!
