Full details & bid : hemmings.com
The 1978 Mercury Cougar XR-7 coupe represents a distinct styling direction in the personal luxury car segment of the late 1970s. The Cougar, initially introduced in 1967 as a sporty pony car based on the Mustang, evolved through several generations to become a more refined and luxurious mid-sized coupe. The XR-7 trim denoted the top-of-the-line model, emphasizing comfort, features, and a touch of sporty flair. The 1978 model year continued this tradition, offering a unique blend of style and plushness that appealed to buyers seeking a comfortable and distinctive vehicle. This particular example, finished in a rare and eye-catching Jade Green both inside and out, with a contrasting white vinyl half-top and pinstriping, showcases the originality that makes these cars increasingly desirable among collectors.
The Mercury Cougar underwent a significant redesign for the 1977 model year, moving to a larger platform shared with the Ford LTD II. The 1978 model continued this generation, featuring a more formal roofline and distinctive styling cues that set it apart from its Ford counterpart. The XR-7 model boasted additional standard features and unique trim elements, including opera windows in the C-pillars and often a vinyl half-roof. The Jade Green exterior of this example is reported to be the original factory finish and presents well, according to the selling dealer. The contrasting white vinyl half-top and white pinstriping further accentuate the car’s lines and its late-seventies aesthetic. Brightwork is described as solid, adding to the overall well-preserved appearance. The seller notes some paintwork on the quarter panel near the vinyl top, possibly touched up many years ago.
Original 351 V8 Power: Under the hood of this 1978 Mercury Cougar XR-7 resides its original 351 cubic inch (5.8-liter) OHV V8 engine. According to the seller, this engine starts right up and runs excellent. While not a high-performance muscle car engine, the 351 V8 provided smooth and reliable power suitable for comfortable cruising and effortless highway driving, which was the primary focus of the personal luxury segment. The engine was typically rated in the range of 140-160 horsepower and around 270 lb-ft of torque for this model year, providing adequate performance for the car’s intended purpose. The power is transmitted through a three-speed automatic transmission, which the seller reports was recently serviced, ensuring smooth and reliable gear changes.
The interior of this Cougar XR-7 is a time capsule, featuring its original Jade Green vinyl upholstery. The seller describes the interior condition as excellent, a testament to the car’s reported indoor storage since new. The green carpet complements the seat upholstery, creating a cohesive and period-correct ambiance. The steering wheel is also finished in a coordinating Jade Green. A significant comfort feature is the factory air conditioning, which the seller describes as “cold.” For entertainment, the car retains its original Ford AM/FM radio. The undercarriage appears dry in the provided photos, suggesting a lack of significant corrosion.
This 1978 Mercury Cougar XR-7 coupe stands out due to its reported originality, particularly its matching Jade Green exterior and interior, its original 351 V8 engine, and its low mileage. The fact that it was sold new in Florida and has been stored inside since new likely contributed to its well-preserved condition. The availability of service records from a previous owner adds to its provenance. The seller emphasizes the car’s originality and relatively low miles as key selling points, making it an attractive proposition for collectors seeking a well-maintained example of a late-seventies personal luxury coupe.
Summary:
- Highly original 1978 Mercury Cougar XR-7 coupe.
- Finished in original Jade Green exterior with white vinyl half-top and pinstriping.
- Original Jade Green vinyl interior in excellent condition.
- Powered by its original 351-cu.in. OHV V8 engine.
- Three-speed automatic transmission (recently serviced).
- Factory air conditioning described as “cold.”
- Original Ford AM/FM radio.
- Low mileage reported (66,823 miles).
- Stored inside since new, according to the seller.
- Comes with service records from a previous owner.
Disclaimer: The description of this vehicle is based on information provided by the seller. Potential buyers are encouraged to conduct their own inspection to verify the vehicle’s condition and originality.
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