The 1971 Mercury Cyclone Spiler is a rare beast, with only 353 examples rolling off the line. Our feature car is one of those vehicles, with its rarity enhanced by a few factory options. It is a solid project candidate that represents a straightforward restoration, and the 429 Cobra Jet under the hood guarantees it will command respect. If you crave a classic with genuine performance credentials, this Cyclone would tick that box.
Don’t be fooled by this Cyclone’s slightly faded Competition Gold paint and visible rust, because it is a rock-solid restoration project. Some lower extremities and the front floors require work, but the seller includes the appropriate quarter panel patches to begin the process of returning this classic to a rust-free state. The panels are straight, and the car retains the factory spoilers which are the defining exterior features. The headlamp doors work flawlessly, and the trim looks acceptable if the buyer pursues a driver-grade restoration. The glass is clean, but the American Racing wheels are a later addition that many purists would probably choose to remove.
Buyers ordering a 1971 Cyclone spoiler received the 351ci V8 as standard equipment. Producing 285hp and 370 ft/lbs of torque, it provided performance that most would have found adequate. However, those with cash to splash could tick the box on their Order Form beside the legendary 429 Cobra Jet beast that placed 370hp and 450 ft/lbs under their right foot. This is 1-of-74 Spoilers where the first owner teamed that powerplant with a four-speed close-ratio manual transmission, raising the rarity stakes to a higher level. It also features power-assisted steering and front disc brakes, meaning the buyer doesn’t need muscles to maneuver this muscle car. The first factor to consider when assessing the investment potential is that this Mercury is numbers-matching. The seller recently rebuilt the front end and brakes, ensuring that the Cyclone runs and drives perfectly. The engine roars to life at a flick of the key and doesn’t run hot. It is ready to be driven and enjoyed immediately as the new owner prepares to perform the work required to return it to its former glory.
The rarity of this Spoiler is accentuated when we examine its interior appointments. Only twenty-five buyers teamed Competition Gold paint with a Black houndstooth cloth interior, and only fifteen selected the power windows found in this car. That’s the good news because this classic undeniably requires a retrim and a new dashpad as part of the restoration. Kits are readily available, and the pad will add $500 to the build budget. However, the potential return on that investment justifies the expense of returning the inside of this classic to a factory-fresh state.
The rarity of this 1971 Mercury Cyclone Spoiler makes it worth more than a mere passing glance. Its numbers-matching drivetrain combination guarantees an exhilarating driving experience, although it is surprising how low the Watch List total is. The seller listed the Cyclone here on eBay in Dallas, Texas, with a BIN of $29,995 OBO. Fully restored to a high standard, a value well north of $50,000 should await the new owner. It is also worth noting that values have climbed significantly during the past year, raising the prospect that this Mercury could be an excellent long-term investment. Hmm, stunning performance, rarity, and an appreciating asset. I can’t think of a single negative in that scenario. Can you?
Nice write-up, Adam. Cars like this are what keep me coming back to this site everyday.
The coolest feature on these cars is the canted gauge package.
Well-equipped. Needs lots of work but doesn’t look abused. Probably a worthwhile project.
Somebody equipped a serious Cyclone 🌀 here Bob. 🏁
Man, if I could I would. I would have to sell a couple of my cars and put the rest of the projects further back on the burners than they already are, I would LOVE to restore it…sound familiar?
I like it!
Big block Cyclones are cool 😎
The engine components need validation with block dates, intake and carb .
I would like to understand what the ebay quote entails “ Clean Texas title in hand lots of documentation Loads of NOS and original parts available if needed for additional money”?
What is missing?
Good luck and hope it gets restored with new quarters and other rust shown with best replacement parts.
I drive from CT. To Maryland to look at one of these with the 351/auto red with black interior. Was told very little rust and
Great shape. Pictures were sent and looked promising. When my friend and I got there we found a heap of a rust bucket. Trunk and quarters were toast a window leak took out the floor pans. Was sad to see it in that shape. Had been off the road for 20 or so years stored in a chicken barn. Yeah not pretty. This car looks in way better shape and has the power train to boot. In person inspection still a must. I hope she finds a great home.
Good luck to buyer and seller 😊
Back then I was just a kid a neighbor had one of these in yellow I thought that was the coolest car ever, love the hidden headlights just makes them look even more badass.
Cool car, but overpriced. Well optioned, though it’s missing some important and expensive items such as console and possibly the factory shifter T-handle, on top of the extensive rust repairs needed. Somewhere in the mid to high-teens us a more realistic price.
Steve R
Hit the Make offer button if you think the price is high and as stated in the listing “Console is included with car just removed to replace carpet.”
What about the other issues he mentioned? Like rust and
Realizing how rare this car is, it doesn’t change what in my opinion is a terrible design. Which will be reflected in the final sales price. The 70-71 Torino’s were far better looking cars.
LOL!!! Please let me know where these cars are for sale of which you speak because, at the moment, my 1980’s time machine is broken!
These comments…hilarious.
Great looking car. Could not be mistaken for anything else, even a Torino. Yes, those gauges are super cool.
I can think of a negative it is going to someone else and not me
That car deserves to be restored
I totally disagree and believe the current bin price is actually perfectly aligned with the current market place! As the writer indicated, one of 350 produced, with original drive train intact, and ready to drive! How many actually exist in this condition? I do not understand why people do not get basic Economics regarding rarity of a said product, which transgress all viable and non viable markets! The market place and buyers are fortunate to even
see this muscle car from the past still tangible, and in front of the muscle car fans! The car should be in a museum, for future generations to enjoy! Get real, the car is priceless!
The car appears to have a140mph speedometer.