Some people seek the versatility of a vehicle that will seat more than five people, but an SUV doesn’t tick the boxes for them. Therefore, a Station Wagon is the most appropriate choice. That will undoubtedly make this 1976 Mercury Grand Marquis an attractive proposition. It is a one-owner survivor that is in exceptional condition. The Mercury has a genuine 79,000 miles on its odometer, and with third-row seating, it has enough space to accommodate the whole family. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Dennis H for spotting this impressive classic Wagon.
Classic Station Wagons typically appeal to different people for various reasons. Some prefer what could be classed as Muscle Wagons with bold styling and dazzling paint colors, while others focus on practical family transport. This 1976 Mercury falls into the second category, courtesy of its Code 6P Cream paint. The seller indicates that it is a survivor, suggesting it has never undergone restoration or repairs. Its condition is noteworthy if that is the case because there are no visible significant paint or panel issues. A close inspection will undoubtedly reveal minor imperfections, but the overall appearance should make preservation a cost-effective and viable option for the new owner. The seller states that this Grand Marquis is rust-free, which is another significant consideration for those unable to undertake a restoration project. The trim and glass are in good order, while the standard three-way tailgate is the first sign of the versatility provided by this Wagon.
This Mercury isn’t loaded with factory creature comforts, with the power rear window and AM radio the only visible factory options. However, what it lacks in factory options is more than compensated by the interior condition. These vehicles typically serve as practical daily family transport, with sticky fingers, little shoes, and loose items in the cargo area often exacting a heavy toll on trim and upholstery. However, there are no such shortcomings with this classic. The Dark Brown trim is in exceptional condition, with no evidence of wear or other issues. The carpet is excellent, the dash and pad haven’t succumbed to UV exposure, and the cargo area is among the best that I’ve seen in a Station Wagon of this vintage. The owner may not have ticked many boxes on their Order Form before handing over their cash, but this Wagon has what counts for enthusiasts with large families. Therefore, third-row seating makes this Mercury a genuine 8-seater, while the optional recreation table should keep young minds amused on long journeys.
It is disappointing that the seller supplies no engine photos, but they provide plenty of information regarding this Wagon’s specifications. It features the entry-level 400ci V8, while a three-speed automatic transmission, power steering, and power front disc brakes were standard equipment in 1976. That V8 should produce 180hp and 338 ft/lbs of torque, making the Grand Marquis an accomplished performer that can haul a heavy load or the entire family effortlessly. The seller indicates that the odometer shows 79,000 original miles, and while they don’t mention verifying evidence, the ownership history could mean that such evidence exists in the form of Service Records. The listing suggests that this Mercury is essentially a turnkey proposition, although a lack of recent use leads the seller to state that it would benefit from a new exhaust and battery. Otherwise, it seems that this classic needs nothing.
The 1976 Mercury Grand Marquis Wagon was not a rare vehicle when new, but finding one that has remained with its original owner for forty-eight years and has been so obviously cherished by that person is a treat. The seller has listed this classic here on Facebook Marketplace in Sparrow Bush, New York. They indicate that they may be willing to negotiate their listed price of $11,500, as they are motivated to find this survivor a new home. Would you pay the full price, or is submitting a respectful offer more your style? Whatever the choice, I hope this Wagon finds a buyer who will continue to preserve a great vehicle from a manufacturer that is now a distant memory.
Nice ride. I would purchase this over a SUV any day, but of course I’m old. That wagon can swallow just about any load you want to throw at it. A V8 with good torque would deliver ok gas mileage, but who buys these for mpg? Decent price especially considering that the median price for a new vehicle these days is $55K.
Would love to see a Marti report on this. Most big Merc wagons were fully loaded Colony Park’s with wood grain and power everything. This is essentially a Country Sedan with Merc front clip. Can’t be a lot of Grand Marquis wagon’s built.
I love the checkerboard table thingy in the far back! I’ve never seen one in a long roof…factory? Aftermarket?
These were listed in the Ford Motor Company Accessories catalog, and available for order from the dealer. I ordered one for my Marquis wagon, along with a luggage set designed to fit the wayback.
As I remember only the Colony Park had hideaway headlights. All Colony Parks had the simulated wood grain sides. Perhaps the front end was replaced with a Grand Marquis sedan front end. I believe the lower level Mercury like this one was called a Monterey wagon.
I prefer the nxt gen dwn sized (fox bodied) altho
we did get in the yrs wood one time w/these big behemoths.
Most of 150 y/o red oak the power co. cut down onto out land
That monster hauled a lotta wet, heavy wood that year as it was
freshly cut.
Marquis wagon not Grand Marquis. High end version would be Colony Park.
True. Fender emblems just say Marquis.
And of course, the mid 70’s interior is brown.
New York and no rust is extremely hard to believe this is one to inspect in person and get it on a lift otherwise nice gas hog family ride
Surely an uncommon ride. Either a special order or big dealer as car. Maybe not ideal today but has nostalgia all over it.
*ad car.
The lack of options/trim and black seat belts makes me think it was a fleet order originally. Perhaps cancelled before delivery. Or was it a re-badged LTD? (Of course the belts may have been replaced. Not a bad idea on a 48 year old car) The kick plates have a Ford (not Ford Motor Company or FoMoCo) logo on them? Don’t know if that was normal. Mercury was the step up division of Ford. This has less features than standard Ford rental cars had.