The 1947 Mercury 79-M Custom Convertible occupies a sacred space in the history of American custom car culture. This specific 1947 Mercury 79-M Custom Convertible was modified by the legendary George and Sam Barris in the late 1950s. It represents the transition of the automobile from mere transportation to a canvas for personal expression. Accompanied by a copy of its Certificate of Authenticity, this Mercury is a rare survivor of the early custom movement. Collectors at Indy 2026 will find a vehicle that embodies the spirit of the Barris Kustom Industries shop.
Frenched Headlights and a Chopped Silhouette
The exterior of this 79-M is a textbook example of early custom techniques that would later define an entire industry. Draped in a deep Maroon finish, the body features classic modifications like frenched headlights and a chopped windshield for a lower profile. Chrome side skirts and fender skirts emphasize the horizontal length of the car, giving it a heavy, grounded look. Dual spotlights and Cadillac wheel covers wrapped in wide whitewall tires complete the quintessential fifties street cruiser aesthetic. Every modification was performed with a focus on streamlining the factory lines into something far more exotic.
Two Tone Maroon and In Dash Craftsmanship
Inside the cabin, the white and maroon two-tone interior mirrors the exterior color palette with period-correct elegance. The bench seat provides a spacious environment, while the column-shifted 3-speed manual transmission remains the primary interface for the driver. An original in-dash clock serves as a functional centerpiece in a dashboard that reflects the simpler, chrome-heavy design of the late 1940s. Materials used throughout the cockpit have been chosen to provide a high-contrast look that stands out during open-top cruising. This space remains a time capsule of the era when custom upholstery was as vital as the bodywork.
Flathead V8 Delivery and Thickstun Speed Parts
The mechanical heart is a 239 CI Flathead V-8 engine enhanced with high-performance components from the early speed equipment pioneers. This powerplant delivers 110 hp / 112 PS and 180 lb-ft / 244 Nm. To increase airflow and style, the engine features a Thickstun dual 2-barrel intake and finned head covers. Dual exhaust provides the classic Flathead burble that enthusiasts have loved for nearly a century. This setup is not just about power, but about the visual drama of a dress-up kit under the hood. It remains a reliable and historically significant example of mid-century performance tuning.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 239 CI Flathead V-8 |
| Customizer | George and Sam Barris |
| Transmission | 3-Speed Manual |
| Exterior Color | Maroon |
| Interior Color | White / Maroon |
| Wheels | Cadillac Covers with Whitewalls |
| Induction | Thickstun Dual 2-Barrel |
Authentic Provenance for the Discriminating Collector
Acquiring a vehicle with direct links to the Barris brothers is the ultimate goal for many enthusiasts of American customs. The inclusion of the Certificate of Authenticity copy ensures that this Mercury’s place in history is fully documented and secure. Because the modifications were performed in the late 1950s, the car stands as an authentic relic of the era’s design trends. It is a functional piece of art that represents the birth of the custom car scene in Southern California. This Mercury is ready to be the centerpiece of a collection focused on the masters of kustom culture.
Disclaimer: Content on this site is for informational and entertainment purposes only. Details, analyses, and opinions reflect current trends and personal views, not professional or financial advice. Always verify information with official sources before making any decisions.
Source: mecum.com
