Few cars capture the spirit of 1950s innovation and flair quite like the 1957 Mercury Turnpike Cruiser Coupe. A true product of its era, this bold machine blended futuristic styling with V8 power and innovative features. Today, it’s a collector’s gem and a unique piece of 1950s Americana.
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The Turnpike Cruiser made its production debut in 1957, inspired by the Mercury XM-Turnpike Cruiser concept unveiled just a year earlier. With design roots in a Ghia-built show car, it stood apart from anything else on the road. From the dramatic roofline to its distinct “Breezeway” rear window, everything about it announced ambition.
Iconic Styling That Stands the Test of Time
This Turnpike Cruiser Coupe wears a striking Tuxedo Black finish, setting the tone for a visual experience steeped in mid-century charm. The sweeping dual-curve “Skylight” windshield, dramatic rear overhang, and rear continental kit are reminders that Mercury was all about pushing boundaries.
The tri-tone interior in black, white, and red complements the exterior beautifully. Inside, the cabin welcomes you with bench seating front and rear, a Town and Country radio, and that unforgettable “Breezeway” rear window, electrically operated to slide down for fresh air, even while cruising.
V8 Power and Forward-Thinking Tech
Underneath the Turnpike Cruiser’s stylish bodywork sits a capable V8 engine. Though Mercury offered several configurations, each was mated to a three-speed Merc-O-Matic automatic transmission. Drivers operated the gearbox through Mercury’s futuristic “keyboard control”, a push-button selector integrated right into the dash.
Power steering and brakes ensured comfort and control, making this cruiser as enjoyable to drive as it was to admire. The setup was tailored for long highways and modern interstates, perfect for an era when America was falling in love with the road trip.
A Rare Find with a Unique Personality
Only built for the 1957 and 1958 model years, the Mercury Turnpike Cruiser remains a rare sight today. This particular example comes from Sonny Schwartz’s Suzy Q Collection and is being offered without reserve, making it even more attractive to collectors and enthusiasts.
With whitewall tires, factory wheel covers, dual mirrors, and an included 1957 “Big M” brochure, it captures an era of optimism and flair. It’s more than a car, it’s a rolling memory of when design was daring and style was king.
Summary
The 1957 Mercury Turnpike Cruiser Coupe is a car that made a statement in its time and continues to captivate with its presence today. From its bold lines to innovative features like the Breezeway window and push-button transmission, it’s a masterpiece of design and engineering.
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