The mid-1950s saw American automakers embrace vibrant colors and sleek, yet substantial, styling. Wagons evolved from purely utilitarian vehicles into stylish family haulers. The 1955 Mercury Custom Wagon stands as an excellent example of this transition, combining utility with flamboyant 1950s aesthetics. This particular example is highly sought after for its correct, eye-catching color combination and desirable nine-passenger configuration.
Iconic Two-Tone Exterior Styling
This Custom Wagon is finished in the correct, factory two-tone paint scheme. The main body color is Carmen Red. It is brilliantly contrasted by the Alaska White accents. This combination is characteristic of the expressive style of the 1950s. The paint scheme flows seamlessly across the large body panels. The vehicle rides on classic wide whitewall tires.
Chassis and Suspension Details
The chassis incorporates Mercury’s engineering for the period. It features an independent ball-joint front suspension system. This setup provided a substantial improvement in ride quality and handling over previous designs. This attention to mechanical detail made the Mercury Custom a comfortable long-distance vehicle. The odometer shows 83,025 miles, suggesting a well-cared-for life.
Spacious Interior and Utility
The interior of this Custom Wagon mirrors the exterior’s two-tone theme. It is trimmed in a matching Carmen Red and Alaska White cloth and vinyl upholstery. This attention to detail creates a cohesive and attractive look. The cabin’s greatest feature is its high degree of utility. It offers a rare nine-passenger capacity. This is achieved through the inclusion of a third-row seat.
Cabin Amenities and Comfort
For driver and passenger comfort, the car is equipped with essential features. These include a functioning heater, important for early morning drives. An original-style radio provides simple period entertainment. The combination of the matching trim and spacious layout makes this an excellent vehicle for weekend shows. This level of capacity made the Custom Wagon a genuine competitor in the family market.
Power, Engine Specs, and Performance
Motivation for this large wagon comes from the 292 CI Y-block V-8 engine. This specific engine was sourced from the Thunderbird line, adding a performance connection. The 292 CI V-8 is linked to the smooth Merc-O-Matic automatic transmission. This drivetrain setup emphasizes comfort and ease of operation. The V-8 provides sufficient power and low-end torque. This makes the 1955 Mercury Custom Wagon ideal for both highway cruising and city driving.
Summary of the Mercury Custom Wagon
In summary, this 1955 Mercury Custom Wagon is a spectacular piece of American automotive history. It showcases the sought-after Carmen Red and Alaska White two-tone finish. The 292 CI Thunderbird Y-block V-8 and Merc-O-Matic transmission ensure a comfortable ride. Offering rare nine-passenger capacity and correct interior trim, this wagon is a charming and distinctive collector vehicle.
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Source: mecum.com
