Sometimes, the base model spec is a inherently charming option as a project car. It gives you a sense of just how spartan cars used to come, as this 1972 Mercury Comet will show you. It’s equipped with the six-cylinder engine and was originally a manual column shift before the seller converted it to a floor-shift setup. It looks to be as honest as it gets, and you’ll find the Comet here on craigslist with a $5,200 asking price. Thanks to Barn Finds reader Jack M. for the find.
I’ve found there to be a loyal following for Mavericks and Comets after listing this Barn Finds Exclusive post for a pair of these cars found in the expansive Georgia collection we’ve listed here. These aren’t enormously collectible cars, but they can either be enjoyed as a slow cruiser or hotted up with any number of aftermarket parts. It really is the best of both worlds if you’re looking for a cheap project to restore.
The Comet here is very, very spartan, with the seller noting a lack of air conditioning, power steering, or power brakes. Other than the floor shifter, it hasn’t been modified in any way. It will need a new heater core, and the seller notes some very minor rust in a quarter panel and fender. The interior is quite nice, indicating this Comet hasn’t been used extensively as a commuter or someone’s beater.
I happen to love this Mercury Comet we’ve listed here as a Barn Finds Exclusive, along with its 302-equipped Maverick sibling. The era of economy cars from the Big 3 was a challenging time for American automakers to compete with foreign rivals, but they must have been doing something right if these cars are still on the roads. Preserve or modify – both options are great for a Comet or Maverick project like this one.
Just watched a fully restored grabber blue V-8 hammer for 37k at barret jackson!
That car was beautiful!
Love the trim package and overall look even though it and it’s Maverick brother are the worst cars to drive in the period IMHO
I have a 331 stroker sitting on an engine stand that would love to call this Mercury home. I wouldn’t pay the ask on this though, I want to make a GT out of it so I would throw stupid money at suspension and brakes, plus five-speed and 8.8 rear.
All original cept for the bondo and paint
…and the dual exhaust….
If it were me, I’d revert to the three-on-the-tree or at least get a less dumb-looking shifter.
Dan D
I had a 65 comet and it was a great car with some really good styling!! It was truly one of my favorite cars that I regret letting go of!! My point is that I have always had a hard time calling theses pinto look a likes mercury comets!! To each his own but I think ford messed up big time whit the redesign!!
That floor shift is it’s ONLY redeeming feature. But I could think of ten other cars I would convert before a Maverick. That said I applaud the seller for the conversion. If somebody pays even 2500 bucks for this I will be amazed. Notice I didn’t say I’d eat my hat………as my faith in humanity is at a low ebb :)
Its a 73 w/the rail road front bumper & normal rear bumper.I had a 73 GT new , V8,3speed,Alcopolco blue w/white stripes