Imagine a summer evening, the sun setting, casting long shadows as you cruise down the boulevard in a classic American muscle car. This isn’t just any muscle car; it’s a 1974 Mercury Cougar XR-7, a vehicle that embodies the spirit of its era. Finished in a captivating blue, this Cougar is a rolling testament to a time when cars were built with style and power in equal measure. This particular Cougar, with its rich history and distinctive features, is waiting for its next adventure.
Exterior Allure: A Blue Streak of Nostalgia
The Cougar’s exterior is a captivating blend of classic design and subtle aggression. The Medium Slate Blue Metallic paint, believed to be a repaint, still showcases the car’s elegant lines, though some minor imperfections, such as paint cracks in the roof gutters and a rust bubble on the lower right-front fender, are visible upon closer inspection. These imperfections, however, are part of the car’s story, a reminder of its age and experiences. The blue Landau-style vinyl roof, complete with opera windows, adds a touch of sophistication and reinforces the vintage aesthetic. The quad headlights, a signature Cougar design cue, along with the chrome bumpers, color-coordinated lower-body side moldings, and dual mirrors, complete the picture of a well-preserved classic.
Rolling Thunder: Wheels and Tires
This Cougar XR-7 rides on 15″ American Racing VN500 wheels, a modern interpretation of the iconic Magnum 500 style. These wheels are fitted with Mastercraft Avenger G/T white-letter tires, manufactured in 2021, suggesting they are in good condition and ready for the road. A full-size spare tire, wrapped in a Firestone tire, is conveniently stored in the trunk, providing added peace of mind for longer journeys. The power-assisted steering and the combination of power-assisted front disc brakes and rear drum brakes ensure a smooth and controlled driving experience.
Interior Comfort: A Gray and Blue Sanctuary
The interior of this Cougar is a comfortable and inviting space, featuring Twin Comfort Lounge front seats and a rear bench, all upholstered in a stylish gray fabric with blue vinyl trim. The color scheme complements the exterior perfectly, creating a harmonious and period-correct atmosphere. Amenities include air conditioning, a welcome feature on warm days, dual front center armrests for added comfort, and three-point seat belts in the front for safety. While the windows have aftermarket tinting, and aftermarket speakers have been added in the doors, the original push-button AM/FM radio is currently inoperative, perhaps an opportunity for the next owner to restore it to its former glory.
Under the Hood: The Power Within
Beneath the hood resides the heart of this classic Cougar: a 400ci V8 engine, equipped with a Motorcraft two-barrel carburetor and a snorkel air cleaner cover. This robust engine is coupled with a Select-Shift C6 three-speed automatic transmission, sending power to the rear wheels. This combination promises a smooth and powerful driving experience, whether you’re cruising down the highway or navigating city streets.
Behind the Wheel: A Journey in Time
The three-spoke steering wheel, featuring woodgrain trim and an aftermarket wrap, feels comfortable in your hands. The instrument panel includes a 120-mph speedometer, a 6k-rpm tachometer, and gauges for fuel level, oil pressure, coolant temperature, an ammeter, and a clock. The five-digit odometer shows 85k miles, with approximately 10 of those added under current ownership. This Cougar is more than just a car; it’s a portal to another era, offering a unique driving experience that connects you to the past.
A Glimpse into the Past
The manufacturer’s data decal provides a fascinating insight into the car’s history, revealing its production date of June 1974, its original color (Medium Slate Blue Metallic), trim (Medium Blue and Silver Blue), transmission (C6 three-speed automatic), axle ratio (2.75:1), and ordering district (Atlanta). This information adds another layer of intrigue to the car’s story, making it even more special.
Awaiting its Next Chapter
This 1974 Mercury Cougar XR-7 comes with spare parts, including bumper guards, moldings, and tail panel trim. This is a remarkable opportunity to acquire a piece of automotive history. This Cougar XR-7, with its distinctive styling, powerful V8 engine, and comfortable interior, is ready to embark on its next chapter, providing its new owner with a truly unforgettable driving experience. The price is not mentioned, please contact the seller for more information.
Summary/Specs (Simple)
- Year: 1974
- Make: Mercury
- Model: Cougar XR-7
- Engine: 400ci V8
- Transmission: 3-speed automatic
- Color: Medium Slate Blue Metallic
- Interior: Gray fabric/blue vinyl
Disclaimer: This information is provided for general knowledge and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended as an endorsement or recommendation for any specific vehicle. For more information on this specific car, you can reach out to the seller.
Source: bringatrailer.com
This article was crafted with assistance from Gemini
