Here’s a first on BF, a 1969 Mercury Comet. I’ll admit that I haven’t given what’s usually considered an economy compact car with a cool name a whole lot of thought, and was probably unaware (clueless?) that the space age moniker was still part of Merc’s lineup in ’69. But here we go, this one’s a beautiful example and calls Loudon, New Hampshire, home. We can thank Mitchell G. for bringing this listing to our attention, and you can find it here on craigslist, where it’s available for $18,000.
In 1960, the Comet started out as its own brand before moving under the Mercury umbrella in ’62. Riding on a compact chassis, Comet moved on up to intermediate status in ’66 and remained there through 1969. In ’71, the Comet name returned to a rebadged Ford Maverick, where it continued through the ’77 model year. In ’69, the Comet existed as a single two-door hardtop body style and resided at the lower end of the Montego intermediate class of cars. Total production that year amounted to 14K units. I think one of the more alluring aspects of this ’69 Comet is its minimalist bearing; it’s not overwrought with trim, a tacked-on spoiler, or a goofy-looking gun sight grille. The seller states that this car is an “older restoration,” with “nice paint,” and it does show extremely well. The exterior images, unfortunately, aren’t very numerous or comprehensive, but from what can be seen, no complaints! And that carries over to the underside and engine compartment.
The interior is stock vinyl and fabric upholstery that is exceptionally clean. And that includes the dashpad, door panels, and carpet. The instrument panel is not well revealed, but there’s no reason to assume any issues there. The only noted deviation from stock is the inclusion of add-on engine gauges, placed below the center of the dash. This is an A/C equipped Comet, and there appears to be a newish Sanden-style compressor mounted in the approximate position where an original Ford unit would have resided.
Power is provided by what was originally a 220 gross HP, 302 CI V8 engine, tethered to a C4 three-speed automatic transmission. As for upgrades, none are mentioned, but there are obvious chromed features that have made the scene, such as an open-element air cleaner and valve covers. I can’t say with certainty, but it looks like a carburetor, intake manifold, and distributor upgrade has occurred, too. The lack of specific detail is disappointing, as those improvements are obvious sales enhancers. All that’s stated in the listing is, “Excellent driver.”
Like it? You bet, how often do you come across a Merc from this era that’s not a Cyclone, CJ, or even a Montego? Let’s talk price. At an ask of $18K, what do you think, priced right or not quite?
This comet should cruise along effortlessly, and sure to be a rare sight at the local gathering. Mercury offered a bunch of engines 250 up to 390, along with 3 and, 4speed manuals. Maybe the sweet spot was a 351-4V, 290hp/385lb-ft. Thanks Jim.
Good job Jim. I enjoy seeing the less-popular cars. This example looks to be in very good shape. Would make for a fine cruiser.
I know it’s a small thing, but I do put some stock in a car when it has personalized plates. It suggests to me the owner is engaged and is proud of his or her car. And perhaps that translates into the car’s condition, the owner’s honesty, etc.
Beautiful car.
I’ve always liked the look of these,but I think that
it’d look better without those stripes on the hood.
The original 60-61 Comet was going to be an Edsel. Of course, Edsel ended up the way Pontiac and Oldsmobile did later (sorry) so the Comet was its own make.
Looks like a Mercury Montego vs. a Comet.
I agree!
Kinda like the Torino/Falcon back then.
I like this one…
The rear end looks like an AMC Rebel
Yep, like the half year only Falcon based Torino of 1970 1/2.
Got a 69 Montego sport special ( according to Marti) a call car and is a great ride this number gives me an idea when I sell
They are the same body, Comet was base level trim, those above were variations of Montego, after 1970, the base Comet name was dropped/
I also agree it’s a montego equal to a Ford Fairlane
As I stated in the second paragraph:
“In ’69, the Comet existed as a single two-door hardtop body style and resided at the lower end of the Montego intermediate class of cars.”
JO
wow you are rt I had forgotten about that only excuse I can think of is I’m 80 years old memory not what it used to be
Very nice and likely worth the price. Nothing needed? Why buy a car for less that needs known and unknown repairs? Requires a visit still to NH? Or trust.
I really didn’t remember this car. The front looks like someone chopped the nose of a Cyclone and I agree with Rixx56 on the rear end. I Iike this car. But would remove the hood stripe OR continue it over the roof and onto the deck lid. Reasonable price for a conservatively modified car.
Sweet ride. Per usual, not enough room to keep it or, for that price, I’d scoop it up.
Very nice I wish there was a side view. I would think it should bring close to the asking price.
Just one question; why is there a reflector blanket in the trunk? Surely that was not standard in 1969. What purpose does it serve during/after the “older restoration”?
Insulation and sound resistant often used under carpet or mat, not original but their choice.
There it is , column shift and a bench seat .
Mom had a ‘69 Montego MX coupe, 302 and a C4. White with Red woven vinyl bench. It seemed like a very basic car back then, even Dad’s ‘65 LTD sedan had power windows. Good cars from a mechanical standpoint but invisible compared to a Cutlass or Malibu.
This is a nice car…excellent, entry-level car for a kid. Lots of room to improve, too. I love it.
Good looking car that presents nicely…..except, here’s the burr under my saddle.
If your going to spend the time, effort and money to do a car up like this, for the love of God, route your sparkplug wires so they don’t look like a wolf’s hairy hindside!
Neatness counts.
Never saw a 69 Comet! 67 and older or 71 and up but never a 69. I’ve got a 71 GT thats working on a restore.