Vehicle Description
Like the tidy proportions and easy handling of a Ford Falcon but
want something a little less common? How about a vintage drop-top
that has a ton of class but is easy on the wallet when it comes
time for gas, maintenance and insurance? And a bargain price
wouldn't hurt either, right? Then take a good, long look at this
1963 Mercury Comet convertible, a cool find that stands out in a
crowded field.
Obviously the Comet was Mercury's version of the Falcon, but true
to the Mercury brand mission, it's a bit more upscale with more
features, more comfort, and a unique look. Not just badge
engineered, the Comet wears unique sheetmetal that definitely looks
like a Mercury, particularly with the bold grille, sweeping side
trim and intricate rear panel, all of which were borrowed from the
bigger models. Finished in basic black, it looks like a grown-up's
car, and thanks to a repaint a few years ago, it has the kind of
elegance usually reserved for much bigger cars. There are a few
signs of use, which is especially evident on black cars, but a
professional buff would really make this black paint look great.
The chrome appears to be mostly original and in good condition,
with bright bumpers, a grille that isn't bent, and ornate little
details that delight, from the fender-mounted ornaments to the
awesome 'Comet' script on the trunk lid. And those taillights are
just too cool.
With a black car, is there any better interior than red? The
beautifully restored upholstery in this Comet ably demonstrates the
upscale look that Mercury was seeking, with silver piping, two
kinds of vinyl on the seat covers, and ornate door panels that add
a bright white contrast strip. There's plenty of room with the
bench seat and the driver gets to sit behind an attractive 3-spoke
steering wheel with simple chrome horn ring. Factory gauges are in
a chrome panel that seems to mirror the taillight panel out back
and while it covers only the basics, it sure looks good doing it.
You'll note that this car has a three-speed manual transmission, so
it feels lively and is fun to drive and the factory AM radio
provides vintage-sounding entertainment. Overhead there's a black
power convertible top that's in good condition and a red vinyl boot
is included with the car. Comets also offer a shockingly spacious
trunk, complete with a full-sized spare and jack assembly.
You'll be pleasantly surprised how energetic the 200 cubic inch
inline-6 feels thanks to the Comet's featherweight body, especially
with that manual transmission. The engine bay is beautifully
detailed with some chrome dress-up to really make it sparkle, but
for the most part it's very OEM. Actually, it's from a Mustang
Sprint and there are less than 500 miles on the rebuild, so it's a
lot of fun to drive. There's an upgraded MSD coil, a new radiator
up front, and thanks to seven main bearings, it's turbine-smooth at
any speed. It starts easily and with that single-barrel carburetor,
fuel economy is impressive. There's a new clutch between the engine
and transmission and according to the door tag, there are 3.50
gears out back, so it feels quick around town and easy to drive on
the highway (that six doesn't mind the extra RPM one bit!). The
underside is quite clean with original floors and factory-style
reinforcements in place. There are some helper springs on the rear
leaf springs which help keep it on an even keel and simple hubcaps
and 185/80/13 whitewall radials complete the no-nonsense look.
An unusual and affordable car that delivers big car fun, this Comet
will be the hit of any show, but we're betting nobody will enjoy it
more than the driver. Call today!
