The 1979 Mercury Cougar represented a certain kind of American luxury. It was a time when cars were big, comfortable, and made a statement. This two-door model, in particular, was the very definition of a personal luxury coupe. The 1979 Mercury Cougar was the final year of its generation. It had been a sales success for Mercury, proving that this kind of style had a wide audience. This car was a blend of comfort and bold design.
A Style That Defined the Era
The exterior of the 1979 Cougar was instantly recognizable. It featured a boxy, formal profile. There were also plenty of sharp lines. The XR-7 model was especially popular. It had a signature padded vinyl roof. This car also had louvered opera windows. Its large, rectangular grille was a powerful design statement. It looked like a smaller, more accessible version of the Lincoln Continental. This styling helped it sell in great numbers. It truly captured the essence of late-1970s design.
Power and Performance on the Road
Powering the 1979 Mercury Cougar were a few V8 engine options. The standard engine was a 5.0-liter (302 cubic-inch) V8. Buyers could also get a 5.8-liter (351 cubic-inch) V8. These engines were paired with a three-speed automatic transmission. The horsepower ratings were modest. The 5.0-liter V8 produced around 140 horsepower. Meanwhile, the 5.8-liter V8 had around 150 horsepower. This car was not built for speed. It was engineered for a quiet and smooth ride. Power steering and power brakes were standard features. They made the large car very easy to handle.
Inside the Luxurious Cougar
Inside the 1979 Cougar, comfort was the top priority. The interior was spacious. It was designed to feel like a living room. The seats were plush and supportive. You could choose between cloth or vinyl upholstery. The dashboard had a classic wood-grain trim. It was a detail that added to the feeling of luxury. Standard features included air conditioning and cruise control. You could also get power windows and a tilt steering wheel. It was a very well-equipped car for its time.
A Cougar That Ended a Chapter
The 1979 Mercury Cougar marked the end of an era. It was the final year for this particular body style. The Cougar would be downsized in the next generation. It would adopt a new design philosophy. This makes the 1979 model a unique part of the Cougar’s history. It represents the height of the personal luxury coupe trend. The car’s popularity at the time is a clear sign of its appeal. It was a comfortable and stylish way to travel.
The 1979 Mercury Cougar two-door is a fantastic example of its time. It combined a bold presence with a focus on comfort. This car was a huge success for the Mercury brand. It provided drivers with a feeling of accessible luxury. Today, it remains a true classic. This car is a perfect symbol of an era of American automobiles.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. It is not an endorsement or a professional appraisal. Any details should be verified independently.
Source: Ford Heritage Vault
