Some classics deserve respect not because they perform exceptionally, but because they have survived in impressive condition. This 1969 Mercury Cougar perfectly demonstrates that trait. It isn’t the most powerful version the company offered, but its condition should receive universal praise on the street or at a Car & Coffee. From its sparkling paint to its spotless engine bay housing a 351ci V8, there is plenty to like about this survivor. Barn Finder Curvette deserves full credit for spotting a classic that should provide its new owner with years of driving pleasure. The seller has listed the Cougar here on Craigslist in Battle Ground, Washington, for $22,000 OBO.
After initial resistance from Ford Management, Mercury released the Cougar in 1967 as its entry into the growing pony car market segment. Based on the Mustang, Mercury prioritized luxury, although buyers could still order some fire-breathing versions. The First Generation remained on sale until 1970, with our featured car leaving the line in 1969. Its Code M White and Black vinyl top combination is classy, and the car’s appearance is hard to fault. The seller is candid, noting that the Cougar isn’t perfect. However, the limited listing images show no major paint or panel shortcomings and no evidence of rust. The vinyl is in good order, and the headlight covers appear to work as they should. The Magnum 500 wheels are period-correct and in good condition, and the tinted glass is clear.
The Cougar remained V8-only territory in 1969, with this car featuring the entry-level two-barrel 351. A three-speed automatic transmission tackles shifting duties, but I’m unsure whether this car features the optional power steering. Mercury quoted power and torque figures of 250hp and 355 ft/lbs in that year’s Sales Brochure, providing very respectable performance and a civilized driving experience. The spotless engine bay presentation seems to support the seller’s claim that this Cougar is well maintained. I can’t spot any obvious fluid leaks under the hood or on the floor beneath this classic. Therefore, if appearance counts, this Mercury should be a turnkey proposition.
With bucket seats, a console, lashings of timber trim, a rim blow wheel, and a pushbutton radio, life aboard this Cougar should be pretty comfortable. Admittedly, the seller provides only one interior shot, but it looks promising. The driver’s armrest shows slight wear, but the visible Light Blue upholstery is in good condition. The dash and pad show no issues, and the wheel is excellent. It may not have factory options like air conditioning, but its presentation makes up for it. I believe it should receive plenty of positive comments wherever the new owner ventures in this classic.
I am a staunch advocate for preserving classics, regardless of how desirable or humble they might be. They offer insight into different eras of motoring history, and that insight matters even more if the marque no longer exists. Somebody has done an admirable job preserving this 1969 Mercury Cougar, leaving its next owner with little to do but slip behind the wheel and revel in the driving pleasure it will undoubtedly deliver. The seller’s price is at the top end of the market, but with values climbing steadily, it could be a viable long-term investment. Its lack of apparent rust should allow it to prowl the streets for decades, raising the possibility that this Cougar could become a family heirloom. Is that something you would consider?
A family heirloom? I don’t think so. This is about as plain jane a 1969 Cougar can be. Leave your heirs something special. This Cougar is not even an XR7. I can’t find a power steering pump. No power brakes. No air conditioning. I’m surprised it has a push button AM radio. Does it have a heater? It is a clean car, but at $22,000 I would like some creature comforts in my Mercury.
AI tells me that an heirloom is “any valuable, sentimental, or functional item intentionally passed down through multiple generations of a family.” So this clean, attractive Cougar isn’t an heirloom because it is a low-option model? That someone in the family wouldn’t want it, or enjoy it? If a family member was going to pass it on to me, I’d be thrilled.
Good job Adam.
I agree, I like this cougar however, I’m not a kid anymore and I need my creature comforts. Price, I don’t know the market, no comment.
This Cougar was obviously somebody’s baby since day one. It’s nice to see at least what appears to be an all original, very well taken care of, more every day Cougar. This is the Cougar you typically saw in the late 60’s and early 70’s. They didn’t all come from the factory with a big block and a 4 speed. If the photos give any indication of the true condition of this one, someone’s getting a nice turn key car. As far as an heirloom is concerned, I’d absolutely consider this as one. And if someone handed this down to me, I’d be very honored to be the next caretaker of it.
Really nice find Curvette, you have a good eye!!! Thank you for writing up this more every day Cougar too Adam. I’d keep it exactly as is. Right down to those sequential tailights that I fell in love with as a little boy.