Ford planned to attach the Edsel’s badge to its new Comet, but the company pulled the plug on that star-crossed division months before the new compact was due on the market. So the poor Comet arrived homeless, presenting buyers with just sedan and wagon body styles. To inject a sliver of excitement, the S-22 trim level was available starting in 1961, offering bucket seats, elaborate trim, a center console, and three tail lights per side. Sluggish sales over at Mercury prompted Ford to expand that brand’s line-up by shifting the Comet to that division in 1962. The new model sold well, boosting revenues at Mercury and providing funds for development. A convertible and a sport coupe were introduced in 1963, and that’s when today’s featured car was minted. Advertised here on craigslist for $19,000, this solid driver is located in Westcliffe, Colorado, and the seller invites inspections. Thanks to Mike F. for this rare tip!
The S-22 was provided with a 170 cu. in. six as standard, but a 164 hp 260 cu. in. V8 fitted with a two-barrel was optional, as seen here. A two-speed Merc-O-Matic handles gear changes; power steering and power brakes round out the mechanical components. This car is wearing an older restoration, with its mechanical components requiring a few updates lately: the carb was rebuilt but still needs fiddling; the generator light is glowing at idle. The thermostat and fuel pump are new. The car is equipped with electronic ignition.
The interior is in decent condition, though the glove box lid doesn’t quite line up, and closer inspection might reveal a few more faults. The seller notes the convertible top has seen its best days, but the power mechanism works. The rear seats are beautiful, the glass is good, and the trunk is in acceptable condition. The wheels currently mounted are not original, but the steelies are included with the sale. The car also comes with a photographic restoration journal.
By 1963, the Comet had been redesigned away from the extravagant fins it bore in ’60 and ’61, necessitating new tail lamps. Base models were equipped with four lights, but the S-22 received these six bullet-shaped units. In 1964, the second-generation Comet was launched on the mid-sized Fairlane platform. The market confers higher prices to this later generation, though today’s S-22 deserves a premium for its V8 engine and convertible configuration. What do you think of the price here?
If Comets were branded as Mercurys beginning in 1962, were the 1961s Fords or a separate division? I can’t imagine a Ford dealer in 1961 having both Falcon and Comet.