Today’s vehicle spotlight is proof that you can combine mobster looks with modern features.
The Pick of the Day is a 1951 Mercury coupe listed for sale on ClassicCars.com by a private seller in Franklinville, New Jersey. (Click the link to view the listing)
The stealthy blacked-out appearance of this lead sled is accentuated by a beveled windshield, curved side moldings, and a dual exhaust system. “Chopped, shaved, nosed, decked,” the listing states. There isn’t much on this old coupe that hasn’t been given some sort of custom treatment.
This car is part of the Mercury “Eight” lineup of vehicles that became the first all-new postwar models from the brand beginning in 1949. The body at the time took on pontoon styling which eliminated the use of running boards and separate fenders. During that era, power for the Eight came from a 255cid flathead V8 paired with a three-speed manual transmission. However, as we would expect, today’s car leaves that dated powerplant behind.
In its place is a much more performance-oriented powerplant: a Chevrolet LS2 V8. This popular 6.0-liter engine was rated at 400 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque when it appeared in the C6 Corvette, the Pontiac GTO, and the Cadillac CTS-V. The transmission in the Mercury is similarly upgraded to a 4L65 four-speed automatic unit. This car clearly has the “go” to back up its “show.”
The chassis and braking systems received upgraded content in the form of four-wheel disc brakes and a coilover suspension. On the interior, the cabin features gray vinyl bucket seats and a custom center console, with added content like Vintage Air climate control, Dakota Digital instrumentation, power windows, and a Bluetooth-connected stereo system. The whitewall tires are new, too, so this car is ready to rock and roll.
Mid-century Mercury models continue to be popular with customizers in the modern era, and this car is a perfect example of a clean build that combines a vintage framework, a modified sleek profile, and modern underpinnings. This coupe would be right at home as a Sunday driver or as a dedicated show car. It has enough creature comforts to make gangster Al Capone feel right at home!
The seller is asking for $58,000 or the best offer for this hot rod.
To view this listing on ClassicCars.com, see Pick of the Day.
I’d rather see a six cylinder Ford flathead in this car than a ‘vette engine
Car looks great. Im wondering if owner is into a trade. I have a few vehicles I would be willing to.
Please contact the seller at the links provided in the listing.
I could be interested but I need more PICS. Interior Engine compartment, trunk under carriage any rot along the body. Why are you selling.Where is the car located now. MILEAGE. Answer these for now.
THANKS ED
Please contact the seller at the links provided in the listing.
A shame the economy is tanked and I’m out of work or I’d borrow the money to have her!