Meet Blue Betty. I named her after her original owner, who with
her husband Bill bought this car on July 14, 1966 from Skyline
Lincoln Mercury in Dallas, Texas. They loved this car and as time
marched on she remained a big part of their life, replaced for
daily use by nondescript Camry and Silverado types she never lost
her spot in the garage or in their hearts. This car was active on
the North Texas car show scene until Bill's passing after which it
saw little use until Betty decided it was finally time to let her
go this year.
This unrestored 1966 Mercury Comet Caliente Convertible is a true
survivor; wholly preserved in its original and current state. This
rust free Comet shows no sign of collision or body work. The
beautiful Tiffany Blue paint is believed to be all original. With
the exception of a few recently repaired panels on the driver's
seat, the white interior is completely original. The electric top
is also original and though faded and loose seamed in a few spots
it moves up and down perfectly and will keep the car dry.
The original C-Code 289 two barrel V8 engine and C4 3-speed
automatic drive train is unmodified and the car runs very well
which should be no surprise considering the 83,000 miles that show
on the odometer are documented to be correct. You see Bill was a
meticulous guy; he kept a small notebook in the glove box. In it he
recorded every fill up and service completed, recording the date,
the miles, the gallons and the cost. The car also includes the
original owner's manual, warranty card and protecto
plate.
All of the exterior and interior lights work. All of the
instruments, wipers, horn, lighter and original AM radio work as
does the remote driver' side view mirror. The windows roll up and
down smoothly and the glass appears to be original and in great
shape all around. The dash has no cracks or unsightly warpage. The
trunk mat is in place as is the original spare, jack and tools.
Since acquiring the car I have serviced the brakes and power
steering, replaced what likely were the original shock absorbers
and other soft parts underneath. She also has brand new Hankook
white wall tires (not shown in the photos). Ole Blue Betty starts
right up and idles so quietly it's sometimes hard to hear her
running. She accelerates strongly and the transmission shifts
smoothly and kicks down predictably. There is no smoke and no
dripping oil. She runs cool in the Texas heat and floats down the
highway at 75, no problem. With power steering it maneuvers easily
with one finger on the wheel. The unassisted four wheel drum brakes
take a little getting used to but will haul the car down without a
lot of drama.
This is a big car and will cruise four adults in top down comfort.
It is a great '60s era color that gets lots of attention. There are
some nicks and scrapes on her and I am sure each one has a story
that adds to the car's legacy. Car guys who know, marvel at the
state of preservation the car sits in today. It is in every sense
of the words, a genuine time capsule.
This classic Mercury is located in Plano, TX. Inspections welcome.
I can assist with shipping. Texas residents may be subject to tax
and fees. Low ballers, scammers and sales assistants need not
apply. Call, text or reply.
