1971 Mercury Cougar XR7 351 Cleveland 2V from North America

Summary:

Memorable

Faults:

Radiator replaced.

Brakes had to be rebuilt twice.

Rebuilt carburetor.

Replaced shocks.

Motor & trans were tired.

Rust in rear quarters.

Leather driver's seat rotted.

The car was well worn when I got it.

General Comments:

I bought this car as a project when I really didn't have the time, money, or even a place to work on it. I bought it for $500US from a guy who claimed it had a rebuilt motor and transmission. The motor was a 351C 2 barrel with an FMX transmission. The AC didn't work and it had three mismatched mag wheels. The interior was a wreck, but I envisioned something similar to Mad Max's interceptor...

Right off there bat, I had to rebuild the front suspension, the brakes (four wheel manual drums), as well as a number of other things. I pumped over $2K in repairs overall. I found a set of Ford steel rims off a Fairlane, Torino BY at a junk yard, painted them black, and installed some wide tires. I also installed a dual exhaust and an open element air cleaner. I intended to replace the motor/trans with a 4V/C4, but that 2V/FMX ran pretty strong for close to 25k. It would scratch 2nd gear and bury the speedometer needle. I also added aftermarket anti-sway bars, making it a very good handling street car for its day.

Eventually it started to wear down, and I was fixing stuff twice. It needed a new motor and tranny, along with a bunch of other things; and the AC still didn't work. I had graduated college by then, and broke down and bought a new pickup. Sold her for $400.

I bought this beast as a project, and ended up driving it because it was a lot of fun. I wouldn't mind finding another 71, but with a 4V motor and 4 speed; and in much better shape to start with.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 26th July, 2015

1971 Mercury Cougar Hardtop Coupe 351 Cleveland from Australia and New Zealand

Summary:

Man, this car looks tough, goes hard and really rocks!

Faults:

No problems have occurred with this car apart from faults found during routine maintenance.

My particular Cougar is undergoing a ground up rebuild currently and parts are easy to find and not especially expensive with relevance to the era of manufacture.

General Comments:

Before the current rebuild, I had an engine rebuild, (to obtain more than standard performance).

I rebuilt the transmission due to oil leaks.

This car has a real go fast feel when in the drivers seat.

The rear seats are a bit of a waste of time due to their size. (Hey, who needs rear seats)

Even stock, the power from this engine could fry the 265 rear tires.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 22nd April, 2005