The first generation Comets ran from 1960 to 1963 but would not have a brand associated for the first two years, so while Comet badges adorned the cars, neither Ford nor Mercury divisions were apparent on the car. This first generation was based on the Ford Falcon platform and in 62 and 63, also shared body and mechanical parts with the Fairlane based Mercury Meteor.
For consignment, a 1963 Mercury Comet convertible, one of just 5,757 produced in '63 and this well sorted example presents in original condition.
Exterior Sultana White covers the car and appears as an off white in our photo booth. The vertical front fascia of the car is classically 60's as are the straight panels and linear shoulder line which terminates at slightly outturned fins that flank a flat decklid. A side trim piece is fairly unique as it starts at the top of the front fender, goes the length of the car, sweeps around like turn 2 at Laguna Seca, then heads back across the lower panels sweeping through the door and ending on the front quarter panel. Chrome and metal work are not perfect on this car, but they are mostly straight and clean and the Mercury wheel covers on the 13-inch wheels look great. Jet inspired tail lights protrude like afterburners on a highly detailed rear panel and a Mercury God of Speed gas cap in the center, winged helmet and all. Imperfections include some bubbling, paint chips, and some discoloration in the paint in one section.
Interior Red painted upper and lowers on the door flank a pleated vinyl door card with a horizontal white and metal detail that intersects the vinyl, all a bit weathered but presentable. The red vinyl split bench is bright and clean with red piping surrounding the inserts and the entire pattern is repeated on the back bench where the sidewalls pull in the door design and also appear slightly weathered. Glorious 60's simplicity is exhibited by the thin steering wheel with horn ring and the simple dash with some ornate elements that give it character. Its horizontal layout includes the speedometer, indicator lights and the odometer in a jukebox-like surrounding. The remainder of the dash, including where the AM radio is embedded, is painted bright red and the loop carpet matches as well and in good condition. A black canvas top appears to be in decent shape and its plastic window has just a hint of hazing.
Drivetrain Under the hood is a driver quality, clean 170ci inline 6 cylinder engine with a 1-barrel carburetor and a 3-speed manual transmission which sends power back to the 7.25" rear with 3.50 conventional gears. Drum brakes are supplied at each corner. The orange valve cover and air element box are bright and clean.
Undercarriage More driver quality conditions underneath with minimal surface rust, some oil on the transmission, and residual oil on the pan along with some slight grease/grime build up on the knuckles. The single exhaust travels back to a stock style muffler then terminates before the rear bumper. We note some sling on the exhaust pipe possibly coming from the U-joint. Suspension consists of coil springs up front and leaf springs out back.
Drive-Ability The very nice interior offers a comfortable cabin and of course, endless visibility with the top down. Six cylinders rotate as we roll onto the loop where the car accelerates well, tracks great, and stops without issue. And good news, everything functional appears to be working! While Classic Auto Mall represents that these functions were working at the time of our test drive, we cannot guarantee these functions will be working at the time of your purchase.
Mercury proudly proclaimed ownership of the Comet in 1962 and since Ford bought the name from Cotner-Bevington in 1959 after they had been using it for ambulances, it went on in production in one form or another until 1977. Here's a relatively rare car in drivable condition and the top down ability to see real comets flash through the evening sky above!
3H15U516453
3-1963 H-Lorain, OH Assy Plant 15-2 Door Convertible U-170ci 1bbl 101hp I6 516453-Sequential Unit Number
WARRANTY PLATE
BODY 76A-Comet Convertible PAINT M-Sultana White TRIM 75-White & Red Vinyl DATE 07L-November 7th DSO 14-Washington AXLE 5-Ford 7.25" 3.50 Conventional TRANS 3-2 Speed Ford O Matic
Classic Auto Mall is home to more than 1,000 classic and collectible vehicles for sale via consignment in a climate controlled 336,000-square foot showroom (that's more than 8 acres!). The largest single location consignment dealer of classic and collectible vehicles in the country is located in Morgantown, Pennsylvania, just 1-hour west of Philadelphia off Exit 298 of the I-76 Pennsylvania Turnpike. For more information visit www.classicautomall.com or call us at (888) 227-0914. Contact us anytime for more information or to come see the vehicle in person.
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