Now it’s time for a “Whatever happened to…?” segment, and in this episode, we’re targeting the Mercury Cougar. It went from a refined pony car in ’67 to a heavier, slower-looking edition in ’71 to this 1978 XR-7, essentially a midsize model occupying Montego, Torino/Gran Torino, Thunderbird territory. Any similarities between this incarnation and the original were reduced to just the nameplate. Found in Nashville, Tennessee, this reasonably priced brown disco era dude is available here on craigslist for $3,300.
Despite all the changes, the XR-7 edition sold well in ’78 with 166K finding first-time garages. The GM mid-sizers were downsized for ’78, but intermediates, such as this Cougar, were still popular – ostensibly because of their size. In keeping with mid-size traditions, Cougar, starting with the fourth-gen (’77-’79), was also available as a four-door sedan. Riding on a 114″ wheelbase and stretching out at 215.5″ in overall length, these intermediate Mercs packed on the pounds, tipping the scales at 4,200 lbs. On the surface, this car shows pretty well in an all-so-seventies way with its landau top, opera windows, stand-up hood ornament, wire wheelcovers, and of course, its brown finish. As the listing states, the vinyl top is shredding, and something is going on underneath it at the left side C-pillar. Still, the entire package is presentable, especially considering that it’s 47 years young and has experienced 108K miles of use.
Under that runway-sized hood is a tepid 144 net HP, 351 CI V8 engine tagged to a three-speed automatic transmission. The seller states: “Engine very good and upgraded with MSD ignition, in last 4 years brake lines done, new alternator belts, etc.” There’s also a mention of differential bearings that will need replacement.
It’s difficult to get a thorough look at the interior, but the images that are provided seem positive. The cinnamon-hued fabric upholstery isn’t showing signs of rips, the dashpad appears to be unmarred, and the headliner is tight and not sagging. The instruments, including the goofy 85 MPH federally mandated speedometer, show as being clear and legible.
The seller concludes with: “The price is very fair, I won’t respond to offers, just come take a look, it’s a loverly car.” (Loverly? Sounds like someone has been watching “My Fair Lady.“) I’d agree, the price is quite fair, assuming one would be interested in a late seventies rig like this. The differential bearing matter doesn’t concern me as much as that shaky-looking vinyl top and what may lie beneath. Mercury may have done well with this vintage Cougar, but for me, the ’67 and ’68 versions were just the perfect embodiment of an upscale Mustang and a very worthy addition to Ford’s middle division. This one? Not so much so. How about you, what rendition of the Cougar is your favorite?
Jim has appropriately defined this Cougar as a product of its day, with all of its malaise-era, disco-era, late 70’s attributes. We chuckle today, but the car was popular and sold quite well. Ford must have made a ton of money on the various iterations of this body style.
As for this (appropriately, brown) example: The pics make it look pretty good, until…. that last one.
With all due respect Bob and others, many of us who were buying cars in the 70s and STILL love the Devine Decadence of that era can never understand the reference to MALAISE. When the 77 XR7 hit the showrooms, I thought it was finally worth looking at, and even attempted to buy one. First time I considered something other than a genuine LAND YACHT. I would have bought one, but couldn’t get a good deal as they sold so well. I finally bought the last 77 Monte Carlo in my Town. After enjoying that with the Go for Baroque styling for 5 years, I returned to LAND YACHTS. But I still prefer the 77-79 XR7 to any other Cougars. As I’ve said before, fortunately in America 🇺🇸 we can STILL have our own opinions. Not sure how much longer 😕. Wishing ALL Barn Finders a blessed Easter weekend from The GREAT AMERICAN LAND YACHT PRESERVATION SOCIETY!
XR7 pkg included all the suspension and handling goodies ?
Maybe by this time XR7 was just an appearance package, like the wire wheel covers? Though that engine could be hopped up with bolt on parts probably. Roof is scary though.
“Radial Tuned Suspension” plaque above glove box door.
Now we understand why Mercury is no more. Enough said.
Not really, this Merc is essentially a rebadged Ford LTD II and they’re still very much around.
JO
As Fox said, the roof is scary. This car obviously sat out in the elements a lot. Peeling back the roof could give you rust through. Then you could make a rag top out of it!
Wonder if the 8-track comes with it?
A 70s Ford, I can hear it starting now. That sound is seared in my brain.
Sort of like starting a 60s & 70s Mopar product, eh Andy?
Or the clicking of a Powerglide shifting from gear to gear! Now it’s a fun memory like the time I asked the owner of a ’54 Chevrolet to grind it into 1st gear just for old times sake. I smiled when he obliged. Much obliged, pardner!
My friend bought one of these new in 1977. I think it was kind of an impulse buy. He was happy with it but I found the car to be bloated and almost pompous. Especially considering what he traded in; a mint ’70 Cuda, pistol grip, rubber front bumper, cam, headers, hayes, – fully built. 50 series in the back. You get the picture. But somehow, he decided to move on.
Good looking cars had one myself nice riding large and 20 miles to the gallon on the highway
Had a 78 company car, believe or not. Great ride and handling. Had to turn it in for a new replacement. Got an 81 Cougar. Lousy in comparison!
Mercury was an excellent as I have one now and wouldn’t trade it for anything. The only thing is 351 modified is pure GARBAGE.