Rare Sleeper: Big Block, Four-Speed Mercury Montego

First, we admit a 1960s mid-sized sedan isn’t the sleeper it once was; but it’s true that most sedans in this class were built with mild powertrains.  Not this one, however, as it sports a 390 and four-speed manual!

This example is essentially stock, but does wear headers and custom exhaust, as well as a 750 CFM Holley carb.  The great news is that the carb is hidden under a stock air cleaner.  That’s a decision we respect on a car like this!

The car appears to be in very good condition, even if the pics aren’t the best.  It seems the seller had trouble getting the whole car into any one pic.  Condition is overall very good, but the seller claims it needs a replacement posi-traction carrier, as the limited-slip diff isn’t functioning (though the car drives).  We also see a few minor items that need addressing in the interior.

So, we love the car and imagine it will have no trouble finding fans.  The question is whether it will find a buyer at the opening bid price.  So far, the answer is no.  While this is cool and rare, its four doors mean it won’t get anywhere near the buy-it-now (BIN) price.

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Westfield, MA, USA
$8,500 with ZERO bids, reserve not met, 1.5 days to go and $17,000 BIN price

Here’s a hint of the classic sedan profile.  We love the classy combination of dark red and black vinyl top, as well as the styled steel wheels.  The trim appears to be present and in at least decent driver condition.

Front end shows interesting concave shape and cool quad lights.  The hood also has a nice, aggressive bulge down the center.

Rear is pretty much plain Jane, although the dual exhaust hints at power.  We’re not sure that the 390 badge was placed in this location originally – someone can correct us if we’re wrong.

Interior sports split (?) bench seat and lots of fake wood.  Naturally, we get a bit fixated on the three pedals and long shifter.  Unfortunately, the doors were cut for speakers and it looks like someone’s working on the remote mirror adjustment.  Surely, these can be sorted fairly easily (retro speaker grills hiding modern speakers would be nice).

Rear seat offers decent room, though not much by today’s FWD sedan standards. Still, modern child seats should fit back here and will be compatible with the lap belts.

It looks like the car has a relatively new gas tank and we don’t see rot back here.

Here’s the 390 (AKA 6.5L) V8.  Again, we love the largely-stock look.  Sure, some might want to clean things up a bit, but this looks just right for a driver.

Ad text:

This is a documented 1 of 1 built. It is a 390 4 speed 4 door with original miles . This is all original. motor was gone threw before I purchased I have receipts  runs perfect.  It does need a track lock carrier . I believe it’s cracked but does drive posi does not work. Car was repainted years ago never had any rust or damage .  I just don’t drive it enough .  Do not call or message  and ask to end early .  Car will.not leave my possession until payment in full and has cleared with my bank . Clean tittle in hand .  I will assist with pick up .  Car must be picked up within 7 days of completed sale . No shipping 
Car does have a edelbrock intake manifold and 750 holly carb and cam is a little larger than stock and hooker headers .  Drive line is original to car minor upgrades on engine and exhaust only 


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