Some classics possess the “wow” factor, either due to their overall condition or their performance potential. This 1962 Mercury Monterey S-55 ticks the boxes on both counts, leaving the new owner with little to do but slip behind the wheel and enjoy all that it offers. It is ideal for enthusiasts seeking a turnkey vehicle, and I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting the Mercury listed here on Craigslist in Langley, British Columbia, Canada. The seller set the price at $32,995, though it is unclear whether that figure is in US dollars.
Mercury introduced the S-55 as the performance-oriented variant of its Monterey range in 1962. Buyers could choose from Convertible or Two-Door Hardtop body styles, with our feature car a first-year example of the latter. It makes a bold visual statement in Presidential Black, and finding anything worthy of criticism is virtually impossible. The paint has exceptional depth of color and shine, and any defects are too minor to appear in the listing images. Black is excellent for revealing panel bumps and bruises, but this S-55 is as straight as an arrow. The seller states it is rust-free, which is positive news for potential buyers who are unwilling to perform any restoration work. The glass is clear, and the sparkling trim contrasts beautifully against the dark paint shade. The Mercury sits on a set of American Racing wheels, although sourcing the correct steelies and wheel covers should be easy if the buyer prefers authenticity.
The 1962 S-55 was V8-only territory, with Mercury offering buyers a choice between two large powerplants that gave these classics excellent performance credentials. The least potent was the Z-Code 390 found under the hood of this classic. However, with factory-quoted power and torque figures of 300hp and 427 ft/lbs, this motor was anything but an automotive lightweight. The first owner paired the 390 with a four-speed manual transmission, a 3.50 Traction-Lok rear end, and power-assisted steering and brakes. The seller indicates that the Mercury’s drivetrain was recently refreshed and that the deal includes boxes of additional parts. The car runs and drives well and is a turnkey proposition, ready to hit the road with its new owner behind the wheel.
One thing that caught my eye when I examined the seller’s interior images is that this S-55 doesn’t feature a center console. It may have been removed at some point or deleted by the original owner, but the stick shift for the four-speed looks purposeful poking through the floor. The “Black” theme continues inside this classic, and it is another aspect that presents extremely well. There is no visible wear, and the seatcovers aren’t badly stretched. The dash is excellent, and the only visible additions are a few aftermarket gauges.
I am typically not a fan of Black cars because most manufacturers have color palettes with shades that are far more interesting. However, I will make an exception with this 1962 Mercury Monterey S-55, because it imparts a menacing air that is hard to ignore. The listing images suggest that it needs nothing, while the motor and transmission combination hint at a rewarding motoring experience. The seller’s price sits toward the top end of the market, but the car’s overall condition seemingly justifies it. However, the fact that it has been on the market for approximately ten days suggests the seller may not have received many serious inquiries. Are you tempted to right that wrong?
Here’s another of the defying logic cars. I figured maybe these family cars were column 3 speeds converted to a 4 speed, but the hump shows, it always was a 4 speed. Goes without saying( but I will anyway)S55s were extremely rare, 2772 hardtops, and while no breakdown for 4 speeds, it’s thought in the hundreds. Generally speaking, Mercurys didn’t attract that sort of buyer. I read, the S55 here cost about $3600 bucks, or almost a grand more than a Monterey or Galaxie, and not a big seller. Most of the 107,000 ’62 Mercs were Monterey 4 doors or wagons. While my manual transmission choice is well known, I think there is still a market for this, just not at $30grand, sorry, bub. Nice car, my moms favorite car. We had a ’62 4 door, and she worked 2nd shift at the hospital,, much to the old mans dismay, and it never failed to get her home on those cold Badger nights.
Remember when cars used to be exciting and fun?
Since the car is advertised on Canadian craigslist the price is in Canadian dollars unless otherwise stated. $33,000 Canadian is equal to $24,000 US, which seems like a pretty good deal for this car in this condition.