The seller uses the words “amazing inside and out” to describe this 1971 Mercury Cougar Convertible. Scrutinizing their photos seems to support the statement, because the car’s presentation is first-rate. It has avoided the aftermarket additions that seem to plague classics from this era, and is guaranteed to turn heads wherever it goes. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting the Cougar listed here on eBay in Lakeland, Florida. The seller set their auction to open at $15,000, but has received no bids at the time of writing.
As with its predecessor, the Second Generation Cougar was based on the Mustang platform. Launched for the 1971 model year, the physical dimensions grew as a result. However, the most significant difference, in the eyes of many, was that the latest model looked less like its Ford cousin than its predecessor did. This first-year Cougar Convertible looks stunning in Bright Red with a Parchment soft-top. It is hard to disagree with the seller’s use of the word “amazing” in their listing, because this classic presents superbly. The paint is dazzling, the panels are straight, and rust isn’t an issue. The top fits as tight as a drum, and the back window is clear. The remaining glass is excellent, and the bright trim sparkles as beautifully as the paint. I am unsure whether the Magnum 500 wheels are original, but they certainly suit the car’s character.
If this Cougar’s exterior is bold, its interior is no less so. Trimmed in Parchment vinyl, it looks virtually perfect. The vinyl isn’t dirty and hasn’t developed any “yellowing.” It and the carpet are free from obvious wear, while the dash, pad, and console are excellent. The first owner didn’t go overboard with factory options, although the air conditioning, AM radio, and clock are all welcome features. Surprisingly, for a car of this vintage, there are no visible aftermarket additions.
As with its predecessor, the Second Generation Cougar remained V8-only territory. The 2V version of the 351ci powerplant was the entry-level engine, which is what we find under this car’s hood. When teamed with a three-speed automatic transmission, power steering, and power brakes, it should provide an effortless driving experience. Although this 351 is the least potent motor in the range, it delivers 240hp and 350 ft/lbs of torque, making the Cougar’s performance pretty respectable. The listing indicates that this classic’s odometer reads 77,900 miles, with the previous owner stating that the figure is original. With no documentary evidence, we must take the claim at face value. There is nothing like paperwork to remove lingering doubts, but this Mercury’s overall condition makes the figure plausible. Otherwise, it appears that the Convertible is a turnkey proposition that will provide the winning bidder with immediate motoring pleasure.
With its dazzling Bright Red paint and Parchment interior, this 1971 Cougar Convertible is bold and beautiful. There is much to like about this beauty, especially if effortless top-down touring is an irresistible force in your life. Buying a car like this in winter makes the most financial sense because prices are typically lowest then. However, if you’re like me, the time between parking a car of this type in your garage and the moment the sun finally shows its face would seem to stretch almost eternally. Therefore, you could make a play for this Cougar, and if you’re the winning bidder, you could fly in and drive it home. That sounds like a winning formula to me.
Real nice looking Cat. An upgrade to a 4V Autolite would add around 45hp, throw in a set of 3.27s and a trac-lok if not equipped, and you’d have a lively performer. I’d probably be happy just the way she is, with the torquey 2V and cruise it. Lovely machine.
I had the vinyl hardtop version of this car… same color scheme… same motor. I switched it over to a 4bbl with 3.90’s… it was a runner. Six months from now, I would snatch that car up in a heartbeat. The story of my life; a day late or a dollar short or both.
Very sharp car. I like it.
I love it. Reminds me of Mike Brady’s car from the Brady bunch.
I know I know, his was a Chevy Caprice. But still. Even the brilliant white interior looks the same.
Beautiful car, and it’s refreshing to see the original steering wheel in place.
Listed for $29,500 on the dealers website, which is less expensive than nearly everything else they have for sale, even cars which seem to have less overall appeal.
Steve R
Another BF favorite dealer that mostly features overpriced inventory. They do sell a few a month, surprisingly.
Truth be told, was never a big fan of these back in the day but this example is Sharp! Someone will be proud cruising this classic
Sweet looking summertime ride !
Good looking Merc. These were generally though of as a upmarket Mustang, I saw them as more of a Grand Prix type of competitor, which the standard 351 2V as opposed to Ford’s ubiquitous 302 Windsor seems to reinforce. These with the 351 4V “Cobra Jet” were stout performers as well. Nice car.
I had one that was a GT, with a 4v 351 Cleveland 4 speed and came with a big hood scoop similar to the Boss 9 scoop. That was a fun car.
nice but it’s from the high price FLA dealer from the other day. can only imagine what the reserve is
Beautiful car, but no mention if that 351 is a Cleveland or a Windsor! I’d prefer a Windsor, there are more upgrade parts for a Windsor than for a Cleveland. For example, Edelbrock makes a port fuel injection setup for Ford 351’s, but it only fits a Windsor. If you own a Cleveland, you’re out of luck!
It is my understanding that some of the base models used the Windsor, but the primary engine was the Cleveland.
It’s also possible that that as the Windsor was being phased out, the Cleveland was installed as a running change when stock of the Windsor engines was depleted. In a similar vein, the 351M and 400, were phased in as “tall deck” replacements for the “short deck” 351, again to replace depleting stocks of 390 “FE” and 351 Windsor engines, respectively.
All someone needs to do is to view the engine photos in the listing. It is not hard to tell the difference between a 351W and a 351C. The valve covers are a different shape and the thermostat housing points in a different direction. The engine in this car is clearly a 351C.
The vast majority of all 1970-1973 Cougars with the H code 351-2V will have a 351C. Once in a while we will find a 1970 Cougar with a 351W or a 1973 Cougar with a 351W. Very rarely will we find a 1971 or 1972 with a 351W. A Marti report will usually list if the car had a W or a C in it.
The 351W was not being phased out. It was used for many more years after this Cougar was built. It lived on in many F series trucks, Broncos and Econoline vans.
Nice
I like every thing about it . Meeting reserve price is probaly too much $$$ .
The Magnum 500 wheels are not original. They were never an available option on any 1967-1973 Cougar. The snaps on the convertible top well trim are aftermarket, the factory never installed any of those snaps. The left door panel is cracked near the lower rear corner and there is a screw in the face of the panel there as well. The shifter is missing the rubber seal. It is missing the COUGAR emblem on the trunk lid. The pinstripe that runs along the upper body line should not be there.
Sounds like it’s about ready for the junkyard;)
Bidding ended on Tue, Jun 9 at 1:28 PM.
US $18,000.00
12 bids
Reserve not met
Car has been relisted. Opening bid $15,000
https://www.ebay.com/itm/236868296074?itmmeta=01KTWH3VBHSK2ANT6A9D53CXGQ&hash=item3726735d8a:g:u4QAAeSwJVVp-kic