Undeniably, some cars seem capable of ticking the right boxes and generating interest better than others. The First Generation Mercury Cougar is a perfect example because it took years to emerge from the shadow cast by its Mustang cousin. However, emerge it has, and this 1968 example demonstrates that graphically. It is a solid barn find that has received an impressive forty-four bids since the seller listed it here on eBay in Groveland, Florida. The intense action has pushed the price to $13,100 in a No Reserve auction.

There’s a bit to consider with this Cougar, with the first point being the seller’s description of this classic as a barn find. I am willing to take that at face value, but some background on when and where it was found and how long it hibernated would be welcomed by those seeking a genuine barn find. The car’s Polar White paint fascinates me because there appears to be a color mismatch between some of the panels. The seller emphasizes that the Cougar retains all its original steel and has never suffered accident damage. They say it received a repaint in the early 2000s, but this doesn’t account for the apparent inconsistency. The issue could be a trick of the light, but this and a couple of other flaws would prompt me to perform an in-person inspection. The exterior is free from visible rust, and the trunk shots look promising. It is a similar story with the floors, although heavy corrosion beginning to appear around the torque box region would motivate me to treat and seal the entire underside before that corrosion makes the transition to penetrating rust. There are no patches or evidence of previous repairs, seemingly supporting the seller’s claim that this Mercury has been garage-kept throughout its life. The trim appears acceptable for a driver-grade classic, and I can’t spot any problems with the tinted glass.

Buyers could not order a new First Generation Cougar without a V8 under the hood. This was the primary point of difference between it and the Mustang, as Mercury pushed its model’s more luxurious credentials. This Cougar features the X-Code 390ci V8, producing 280hp. Shifting duties are completed by a three-speed Merc-O-Matic transmission, with power steering and power brakes further emphasizing this car’s luxury leanings. It would be fair to expect similar performance from a Cougar and an equivalent Mustang since both share their architecture and drivetrains. However, there are differences worth noting. This Cougar will tip the scales over 230 lbs heavier than a 390-equipped Mustang, and weight is one of the greatest enemies of performance. It is also worth noting that most Mustang buyers opted for the more powerful S-Code 390, with only 733 buyers selecting the milder version of that V8. This Cougar features its numbers-matching drivetrain and is in good mechanical health. It runs and drives well, with no smoke, knocks, or fluid leaks. It is ideal for an enthusiast seeking immediate classic motoring gratification.

This Cougar’s interior demonstrates how some people interpret conditions differently from others. The seller describes it as being in excellent shape, and it is undeniably tidy and unmolested. However, the split on the driver’s seat, what appears to be a matching one developing on the passenger seat, and the fading carpet lead me to believe that they may be overshooting the mark with their assessment. Addressing those flaws won’t break the bank, with parts readily available and affordable. The mirror needs reattaching, and some untidy wiring is hanging below the dash. Otherwise, the remaining upholstered surfaces and back seat look good for their age, the dash and pad are impressive, and the wheel is crack-free. The new owner will welcome the air conditioning, and in-car entertainment is tackled by a factory AM radio.

This 1968 Mercury Cougar isn’t perfect, nor is it a classic that will devour the winning bidder’s remaining cash as they address major rust problems. It is rock-solid, and any required work could be carried out in a home workshop without breaking the bank. The idea of spending some of the upcoming winter months treating the underside surface corrosion and undersealing the car would be tempting. Addressing its minor interior shortcomings would only take a few days, and with that work complete, the buyer could roll it out for hours of fun when the sun shows its happy face again. Are you tempted?