1963 Mercury Monterey S-55 Marauder Fastback Coupe

For 1963, Mercury offered four levels including the base Monterey, Monterey Custom, S-55 and Colony Park. The Monterey was long and benefitted from Lincoln design influences, including the 'Breezeeway' retractable rear window, vestigial tailfins and rear treatment. The 1963 Mercury outsized the 1963 Lincoln (with the exception of the slightly smaller Mercury station wagon), with a wheelbase of 120 inches and an overall length of 215 inches.

Mid-1963, Mercury debuted the Marauder fastback model based on the top-level S-55 line. It had a more aerodynamic roofline tailored specifically for the rigors of NASCAR competition. Several high-performance V8 engines were available, ranging from the 390 V8 in either 300- or 330-bhp tune to the 385 horsepower 406 V8 and going to the 427, in 410- or 425-bhp, dual four-barrel form.

This 1963½ Mercury Monterey S-55 Marauder Hardtop is fitted with a 427 cubic-inch 'Super Marauder' V-8 engine with dual Holley four-barrel carburetors and 425 horsepower. There is a four-speed manual transmission and four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes.

In 2012, this car was offered for sale at the Amelia Island auction presented by RM Auctions. The car was estimated to sell for $75,000 - $100,000. As bidding came to a close, the car had been sold for $104,500 inclusive of buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Mar 2012