Determining exactly how a vintage automobile was mechanically equipped when it left the factory is an important detail when deciding how much to pay for a project, along with confirming whether it still has those same parts and how much it might cost to return the vehicle to like-new condition. That’s a lot to think about, especially the pedigree, and this 1969 Mercury Cougar here on eBay scores very high on that one factor. It’s an R-Code, having left the San Jose plant with a 428 Cobra Jet Ram Air V8 under the hood, so that’s undoubtedly a huge plus. However, everything else needs to also be checked to see whether this high performer from the past merits the asking price of $21,000. Fortunately, the seller is also open to offers, so head on over to Forest, Virginia, to see if this is the right project for you. Curvette, thanks for another excellent tip here!
It’s always a good thing when Kevin Marti has done a report on a Ford product, and thankfully, he’s gone over this Cougar and provided a summary of how it was originally manufactured. It’s confirmed the original R lineage is legit, but unfortunately, the bay is now empty. The seller is providing a mid-1968 dated engine that’s a work in progress, with the machine work already performed on the block and heads. Not all parts are included, so the buyer will need to source the exhaust manifolds, carburetor, and that all-important Ram-Air base. A C6 automatic transmission is included, but no information is provided on its current condition.
The aged finish now consists of a mix of patina, primer, and some blue paint that was once bright and metallic. However, underneath that combo appears to be a fairly solid foundation, with the seller reporting that very little bodywork will be needed before the exterior is ready for a respray. This one originally came with a black vinyl top, but it’s been removed, so hopefully uncovering the roof has prevented any potential corrosion the material would have eventually caused.
Plenty of attention will be needed inside, including replacing that warbled dash pad and installing some unclouded gauge covers. Most of the floor looks pretty good, with the northernmost sections showing what’s hopefully just some surface rust on top. No photos feature the undercarriage, and there’s no mention of the frame rails, so I’d at least ask for details to help determine whether repairs down below will need to be factored into the projected restoration costs. There are pros and cons to consider, but that magic letter “R” certainly adds a lot of value here. How much would you be willing to spend on this 1969 Mercury Cougar project?
21,000 seems very optimistic, but it was a great car at one time