1973 Mercury Cougar XR7 Convertible

Initially developed as a rebadged version of the Mustang, the 1967 Cougar had a unique body design although still with the Mustang’s familiar 'long-bonnet, short-boot' proportions. Marketed as having 'European' styling and features and aimed more up-market than the Mustang, the original Cougar was the first Mercury vehicle with hidden headlights. It was also distinguished by a split 'electric shaver' grille treatment featuring vertical slats, styling that was reflected at the rear as well with concealed dark-lens taillights. In 1967, a higher-spec XR7 model was also offered with (simulated) wood-trim dashboard, full instrumentation (black faced gauges), toggle switches, an overhead console and, if so equipped, the automatic transmission was fitted with a T-bar floor shifter. 1973 marked the final year for the second-generation cars which differed little apart from a revised front bumper and grille, an updated fascia and power assisted brakes were now standard.

This fabulous example was UK-supplied new in left-hand drive by Ford Main Dealer, Gates of Woodford, in May 1973. It's a late second-generation, 351cu.in, Cougar Convertible in XR7-spec, finished in Bronze Yellow with black, natural grain leather, Mateo vinyl trim and fitted with a power hood, power windows, radio and cartridge player.

Its original owner had visited the Gates Ford showroom in Woodford with a new Triumph Herald convertible in mind but was confronted by a pair of brand new Cougar Convertibles, one in Bright Red and one finished in Bronze Yellow. Despite the fact that the Cougars were considerably more expensive than the Herald, his willpower had temporarily departed, and the yellow one was duly purchased. That must have been an interesting conversation when he got home. All was forgiven, we assume, as the big Mercury remained with its first owner in Essex until its purchase by our vendor. A passionate American car lover, he was impressed with the car's condition and originality and decided to take it to the highest level of preservation and presentation that he could.

The results were and are spectacular. It was Meguiars Car of the Year in 2004 and still presents to the same standard and we understand that it's been acclaimed by the USA Cougar Club as the 'best in the world'. The comprehensive history file shows a complete owners time-line confirming the low mileage of only 38,600 and the car is accompanied by its original build sheet, the original owners Warranty Identification card from Gates, numerous magazine articles eulogising about this jaw-dropping Mercury and a multitude of show and Concours d'Elegance trophies.

On offer from our vendor's small American collection, which majors on Lincolns, this Cougar has wanted for nothing in his possession and recently had a £3,600 service including tyres and a new correct 2300 Holley carburettor. In his own words 'It drives perfectly, silky smooth, effortlessly and whisper quiet.'

If ever there was a car in our auction that you never realised you needed, this remarkable five-seat Cougar Convertible at a very sensible guide, could well be the one.