Concept Cars Home
Bonhams - Quail Lodge Sale
1906-1934
1937-1960
1961-2003
1961-2003 Vehicles
1961 Balchowski Old Yaller Mk VII
1961 Triumph Italia 2000
1962 Austin-Healey Sprite
1962 Autobianchi Bianchina
1962 Maserati 5000 GT
1962 Mercedes-Benz 220 Series
1962 Morgan Plus Four
1963 Maserati 3500 GTi
1963 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud III
1963 Thews Motors DKW-Porsche Special
1964 Lincoln Continental
1964 Mercury Comet
1965 Lotus Cortina
1965 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud III
1966 Lotus 47 Europa
1966 Porsche 906
1968 Fiat Abarth 1300
1979 BMW E26 M1
1986 Porsche 962
1987 March 87C
1987 Porsche 962C
1989 Aston Martin V-8
1995 Bentley Continental R
2003 Lola B03/51
 
  • Information on the 1964 Mercury Comet
  • More photographs of the 1964 Mercury Comet
  • 1964 Mercury Comet
    1964 Mercury Comet

    1964 Mercury CometThe Mercury Comet was introduced in 1960 as a sister to the Ford Falcon. At the time, Mercury appeared to be searching for its identity, which began with the 1957 Mercury's and their space-age styling. This was followed by the practicality of the Comet, which was at odds with a brand that was in the medium-priced field. By 1961, the Mercury's - including the full-size models - were simply badge-engineered Fords. Things began to change starting in 1962, when Mercury appeared to get its mojo back. The Comet was given a face-lift and offered in a dash of sportiness. The new S-22 model offered even more with its bucket seat interior. Mercury cars began taking notice in the NASCAR circuit, and the 1964 A/FX Comet was doing damage in the NHRA competition. With the introduction of the 289 Hi-Po engine, Mercury had a proper muscle car in the Comet Cyclone.

    Six 1964 Comet Calientes were prepared for the East African Safari Rally and each received the 289 Hi-Po motor and heavy-duty modifications to cope with the harsh terrain of the continent. These modifications included a reinforced frame and six-point roll cage plus full-size Mercury front rotors, calipers, and rear drums.

    This example was built by a collaboration of a few enthusiasts. It has a correct date-coded '5 bolt' 289 Hi-Po motor connected to a Ford 'Top Loader' four-speed. In the back there is a nine-inch 31-spine axle with limited slip differential. Body panels have been 'seam-welded' and lightweight bumpers also have been installed. This fully street-legal Comet has participated in the Tarmac Rally and hillclimb.

    In 2011, this vehicle was offered for sale at the Quail Lodge auction presented by Bonhams. It was sold for the sum of $45,045 inclusive of buyer's premium.

    Also photographed at :
  • Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion >> 7A : 1963-66 GT Cars Over 2500cc