1947 Ford Mercury V8 Coupe (RHD)

Description

In the immediate post-war period Mercurys were essentially dressed-up Fords, bridging the gap between the DeLuxe and the Lincoln-Zephyr range. Many regard the 1941-1948 Mercurys as one of Ford’s most collectible cars, combining sleek styling, fancy interior appointments and the famous flathead V8 under the hood. Following a temporary halt to production due to the Second World War, the Lincoln and Mercury divisions were combined on November 1, 1945 and the first post-war model was a mild facelift of the 1942 model, with a ‘high-style’ grille and power windows as standard equipment. Few changes were made to the 1947 model, with 86,363 built that year. Mercury used a longer 118-inch wheelbase than contemporary Fords and the range of body styles for 1947 included the Sedan, Sedan Coupe, Town Sedan, Club Convertible and Station Wagon. Under the bonnet was the beefy L-head V8, displacing 239-cid and developing 100 horsepower at 3800 rpm, with a three-speed manual transmission standard. Inside, the Mercury was distinguished by the quality of the upholstery materials, usually broadcloth or cord, and higher trim levels. Period advertising trumpeted the aircraft-inspired engineering and styling and made much of the Mercury’s supposed fuel efficiency. Ford Australia marketed both sedan and locally made utility versions of the second generation Mercury and they were quite successful here with buyers looking for a touch of luxury. Indeed, “Gelignite Jack” Murray used his 1948 Ford Mercury, nicknamed the “Grey Ghost”, to win the 1954 Redex trial.