Ford and Mercury introduced mid-size cars in 1962, using names already in the FOMOCO family. Ford’s entry was the Fairlane, while Mercury’s was the Meteor. Mercury stayed in that game for only two years before dropping the Meteor. And only offered a station wagon for one of those years, 1963. This one runs and drives and has ample patina, but the floorboards will need attention. Located in Fife, Washington, this project Merc is available here on Facebook Marketplace for $8,500. Thanks for the tip, “Zappenduster”.
Mercury only produced 3,844 copies of the Meteor wagon, with 2,359 being the “regular” version. The others were in “woodie,” or Country Cruiser trim with faux woodgrain paneling on the sides. We believe that only six-passenger versions were built (i.e., no third seat in the back). While a 170 cubic inch inline-6 was standard, you could opt for a 260 V8, which is how the seller’s wagon was equipped. A 2-speed automatic transmission is along for the ride.
The seller’s wagon has been on the market for three weeks, which isn’t that long for a car that a lot of people may not know about. Also, the seller’s “I know what I have so don’t lowball me” approach might turn some would-be buyers off. The wagon runs and has new brakes and features factory air conditioning (though the unit hangs under the dash) that’s not currently hooked up. The interior will need some work, principally the front seat.
While we’re told the sheet metal is good, the floors aren’t. The seller has already repaired one area and has replacement panels that will come along for the rest. The rear tailgate window is said to need attention in the power department. And some of the front suspension and steering pieces may need a refresh. If you’re looking for a rare wagon to restore, this might be it. Question? Repaint and leave the patina as-is?
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