Some classics are almost too stunning for words. Take this 1965 Mercury Comet Caliente Convertible, for example. From its sparkling paint to its spotless interior, it makes a positive first impression. It continues below the surface, having covered a mere 5,000 miles since the seller treated it to a complete drivetrain rebuild. The 302ci V8 under the hood is as fresh as a daisy, ready to provide the buyer with immediate classic motoring pleasure. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting the Mercury listed here on Craigslist in Butteville, Oregon. Handing the seller $26,500 will allow someone to drive home in this beauty.
Mercury released its Second Generation Comet range in 1964, although it remained on sale for only two years. It shared its underpinnings with the 1963 model, but featured a more aggressive body. The company performed minor updates in 1965, which is when our feature car rolled off the line. It was about as good as it got for Comet buyers, being the range-topping Caliente Convertible variant. While it wasn’t the rarest Comet produced that year, a relatively high sticker price meant that only 6,035 buyers handed over their cash to take one home. This Caliente’s presentation is superb. Its Onyx paint shines beautifully, covering panels free of bumps and bruises. There are no rust issues to spoil the ownership experience, and the matching Black power top fits as tight as a drum. The sparkling trim perfectly contrasts the dark paint, and the glass is clear. The seller’s decision to fit wire wheels with Redline tires further enhances the car’s appearance, which simply oozes class.
Triple-Black classics typically draw crowds, so potential buyers should probably prepare for that wherever they take this Comet. There is little to criticize about the appearance, beyond minor deterioration of some faux-chrome pieces on the dash. The Black vinyl on the seats and other upholstered surfaces is excellent, with no evidence of wear or distress. The carpet is in great condition, as are the wheel and the dash. It could potentially have looked quite dark and somber inside this Mercury, but the bright dash trim and splashes of woodgrain lift the interior markedly. The console is an aftermarket addition, but the car retains its factory AM radio.
Okay, potential buyers favoring originality probably won’t find this Comet appealing. However, anyone seeking a turnkey classic will find plenty to like. Its engine bay houses a 302ci V8, a motor that didn’t join the Comet range until 1968. A three-speed automatic transmission handles shifting duties, with the Caliente also scoring power steering. The engine specifications are unclear, but its health isn’t. This Comet has covered 5,000 miles since the seller rebuilt the V8, the transmission, and the rear end. Therefore, its performance should be close to its best, with the drivetrain broken in and any early bugs eliminated. It appears that potential buyers can consider it a turnkey proposition.
Some enthusiasts dream of tackling a project build, but acknowledge that circumstances would never allow it. They can either let their classic ownership dream wither on the vine or throw caution to the wind by purchasing a turnkey proposition. That doesn’t make them less of an enthusiast, because that trait is determined by the passion in their heart, not the grease beneath their fingernails. If you harbor those feelings, this 1965 Mercury Comet Caliente Convertible could make your dream a reality. It needs nothing and is guaranteed to turn heads wherever it goes. It may not be entirely original, but if it brings joy, does that really matter? I don’t think so.
Wouldn’t kick it out of my driveway on account of a 302 Clarkey.
My folks had a 65 Caliente when I was a was a kid. If I’d Had the cash, I would be all over this. Beautiful car!
My dad bought his black on black Caliente in the early 70’s, for $50. Cash. Blown engine, but rock solid. Installed another 289 from the junkyard, and sold it for $500. Those days are but a distant memory.
Sweet ride but with no a/c in it here in Texas it would definitely be caliente!
Here in SE FL too
We’re all spoiled now. Back about 4 1/2 decades ago I lived in Miami, Florida and drove a 69 Chevy pickup with no a/c. Never gave it a second thought. Now I’m 78 (79 in three weeks) living in Houston, Texas. I wouldn’t think of going anywhere without my a/c blowing cold air on me.
God Bless America
Back then under-dash a/c was pretty normal and very often dealer installed. So putting one in would be period correct. Add an under-dash unit and enjoy it.
Cool Caliente, is that an oxymoron? That console has me scratching my head though. Forget about your girlfriend sitting next to you while cruising.
Sweet and rare, and looking great in black. The asking price is all the money these days, but he’ll likely get that or close to it, as this little gem checks all the boxes, and it will turn heads anywhere. Not another Mustang.
Since it’s not a muscle car, nobody cares if it’s a motor swap when it’s done this well.
A ~$25k car that is worth $25k
My favorite Comet year. Owned a 65 Comet Caliente, 2 door fastback. Had under dash factory AC, PS, PB and a A code 289, 4brrl carb. Auto transmission and a very rare option: under dash foot operated window washer. You actually pumped it as it was not electric. Also had a swing out tissue dispenser under the glove box. Car was pretty fast. The black convertible here is a beauty but I prefer the looks of the 2 door hardtop. Either way, Mercury hit a home run this year.
Great looking car, especially in factory Onyx.
cool convert in a model you never see. i would lose the tire/wheel combo and the gaudy cup holder thing
Last year for being a Falcon cousin. The Comet moved up to Fairlane status beginning in 1966.
nice