Full details & bid : bringatrailer.com
The 1969 Mercury Cougar XR-7 convertible stands as a truly rare and coveted piece of American muscle car history. This particular example is one of an incredibly limited production run of just 96 convertibles factory-equipped with the mighty 428ci Cobra Jet V8 engine and a three-speed automatic transmission for the model year. After a prolonged period in storage, it underwent a comprehensive multi-year refurbishment in the 1990s. Acquired by the seller’s spouse in 2015, the car has since received meticulous attention, including extensive overhauls of the brakes and air conditioning system, restoration of the steering wheel, and a rebuild of its Traction-Lok differential. This iconic feline boasts a Ram Air induction system, a pristine white soft top, and a refined white leather and vinyl interior, making it a powerful and luxurious classic.
Exterior Details and Distinctive Styling: This 1969 Mercury Cougar XR-7 Convertible originally left the factory finished in red, identified by paint code T, and was subsequently repainted during its 1990s refurbishment. The car features a replacement white soft top, providing a striking contrast to its vibrant exterior and offering open-air motoring. Its distinctive styling is enhanced by concealed LED headlights, a modern touch that integrates seamlessly with its classic lines while providing improved illumination. Functional hood pins contribute to its aggressive, performance-oriented aesthetic, while sequential rear turn signals, a signature Cougar feature, add a touch of sophistication and safety. As a true Ram Air model, this convertible is equipped with a functional hood scoop, underscoring its potent powertrain. Minor imperfections such as paint touch-ups and a rust bubble on the passenger door are noted, consistent with an older restoration. The convertible top cylinders were replaced under current ownership, ensuring smooth operation of the soft top.
Wheels, Brakes, and Steering Upgrades: The 1969 Mercury Cougar XR-7 rides on replica 14-inch styled steel wheels, which perfectly capture the period-correct look. These wheels feature attractive gray centers, polished lips, and distinctive blue Cougar center caps, adding to the vehicle’s authentic appearance. They are wrapped in Firestone Wide Oval tires, completing the classic performance profile. For enhanced stopping power and reliability, the power-assisted front disc and rear drum brakes underwent a comprehensive overhaul in 2021. Further improvements to the driving dynamics include the installation of a replacement power steering pump, hydraulic cylinder, and control valve in 2022, ensuring precise and responsive steering. These recent mechanical updates contribute significantly to the car’s driving experience, blending classic style with improved modern functionality.
Luxurious Interior and Cabin Amenities: The cabin of this 1969 Mercury Cougar XR-7 Convertible offers a blend of sporty design and luxurious appointments, reflecting its XR-7 designation. The front bucket seats and rear bench were reupholstered in a striking white leather and vinyl during the 1990s refurbishment, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere. In 2022, replacement insulation and fresh red carpets were installed, further enhancing the interior’s comfort and visual appeal. The dashboard is elegantly accented with woodgrain trim, adding a touch of classic sophistication. Key interior features include a convenient center console, a wind deflector for open-air cruising comfort, and power windows for effortless operation. A refurbished AM/FM radio provides period-correct entertainment, complemented by Custom Autosound speakers. While the rear window motors are noted as weak and the air conditioning blows cool but not cold, these aspects offer opportunities for further refinement to an already impressive interior.
Driver Information and Instrumentation: The driver’s perspective in this 1969 Mercury Cougar XR-7 is focused around a steering wheel featuring elegant woodgrain trim, providing a tactile and aesthetic link to its classic heritage. The instrument cluster houses a 120-mph speedometer, a modernized 6,000-rpm tachometer, and a suite of supplementary gauges that keep the driver informed. Under current ownership, attention was given to the gauges, with the instrument cluster and clock lenses being replaced, gauges calibrated for accuracy, and the ammeter cleverly converted to display voltage, a practical upgrade for monitoring the electrical system. The five-digit odometer shows 11,000 miles, though it is believed to have rolled over, a common occurrence for vehicles of this vintage. Approximately 16,000 miles have been added under current ownership, indicating regular enjoyment of this rare classic.
Powertrain and Performance Details: At the heart of this 1969 Mercury Cougar XR-7 lies the legendary R-Code 428ci Cobra Jet V8 engine, a highly sought-after powerplant. This factory-equipped engine originally came with a four-barrel carburetor and was conservatively rated at 335 horsepower and a formidable 440 lb-ft of torque, providing exhilarating performance. The engine block is believed to be a warranty replacement, a common occurrence for high-performance engines of this era, suggesting a history of consistent care. Under current ownership, a PerTronix ignition system was installed, enhancing ignition reliability and performance. Power is efficiently routed to the rear wheels through a robust three-speed automatic transmission, ensuring smooth and rapid acceleration. The Traction-Lok differential was rebuilt and fitted with replacement 3.25:1 gears under current ownership, improving traction and power delivery to the wheels. In preparation for the sale, the transmission pan gasket and filter were replaced, indicating meticulous maintenance. An oil change was also performed, and detailed service history is available, underscoring the comprehensive care this rare Cobra Jet has received.
Documentation and Additional Items: This 1969 Mercury Cougar XR-7 Cobra Jet convertible is accompanied by significant documentation that enhances its provenance and appeal. An Elite Marti Report is included, which provides invaluable factory build data, statistics, and authenticates its rare R-Code 428ci Cobra Jet configuration. This report also includes a reproduction window sticker and door tag, offering a detailed glimpse into the car’s original specifications and options. In addition to the official documentation, the sale includes service manuals and literature, providing essential information for its continued care. A selection of spare parts is also part of the offering, giving the new owner resources for future maintenance or restoration. Finally, a car cover is included, offering protection when the vehicle is not in use. The car is offered with a clean Delaware title in the current owner’s name, ensuring a smooth transfer of ownership for this extraordinary classic.
Summary:
- One of 96 convertibles with a 428ci Cobra Jet V8 and 3-speed automatic.
- Underwent multi-year refurbishment in the 1990s.
- Acquired by seller’s spouse in 2015.
- Brakes and A/C system overhauled under current ownership.
- Steering wheel restored, Traction-Lok differential rebuilt.
- Equipped with Ram Air induction system and white soft top.
- Features front disc and rear drum brakes, replica styled steel wheels.
- Interior includes center console, rebuilt AM/FM radio, power windows.
- Upholstered in white leather and vinyl with red carpets.
- 428ci Cobra Jet V8 rated at 335 hp and 440 lb-ft torque.
- PerTronix ignition installed.
- Comes with Elite Marti Report, service manuals, spare parts, car cover.
Disclaimer: Information provided is based on available details and prior ownership claims. Prospective buyers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own thorough inspection and verification of the vehicle’s condition and history.
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