In 1953, Mercury shared many styling elements with Lincoln and the bodies were closely related to Ford models, with the exception of a three-inch longer wheelbase that was reflected in the proportions of the hood and front fenders. The 1953 model year also marked the end of the venerable flathead V-8 engine in Ford and Mercury passenger cars, the ultimate statement of one of the most famous, successful and celebrated automobile engines ever created. In fact, many of these beloved engines have long since been “liberated” by enthusiasts to power a variety of hot rods and customs, and many continue in use today.

The mid-size Mercury Monterey convertible neatly bridged the market gap between the more modest Ford models and the big, luxurious Lincoln. The 125-horsepower V-8 gave excellent performance while the larger and more luxuriously trimmed body appealed to a more discerning market. Astonishingly rare today, the Monterey convertible accounted for less than three percent of total Mercury production and only about one-fifth of the production of Ford’s own Sunliner convertible. The figure most seen is less than 8,500 similar Monterey Convertibles built. Consequently, survivors are hard to find and are avidly sought after by collectors. It is interesting to note that one particular 1953 Mercury Monterey convertible also marked an important milestone as the 40 millionth vehicle built by the Ford Motor Company.

The example offered here features a one repaint red exterior finish that is said to be original color and in excellent condition. The original paint can be found in the door jambs and firewall. The car was gotten out of California in 2006 and is complemented by distinctive and excellent chrome and stainless steel trim, a black Haartz cloth with red piping power-operated convertible top, matching top boot, red painted steel wheels, factory hubcaps and bias-ply wide whitewall tires. The very attractive two-tone interior is said to be original and includes power windows, power seat, a working dash-mounted clock, working radio and heater.

The Mercury Monterey Convertible starts, runs and drives strongly and tracks straight down the road with great power. Underhood, the venerable flathead 255-cid, 125-hp V-8 engine has dual exhaust and is matched to a Merc-O-Matic automatic transmission. Rear fender skirts and windshield washer are also part of the sporty package. The original trunk mat, spare tire, jack and tools are also aboard this excellent, totally corrosion-free California car. The car is reported to have driven in a very sparing manner with approximately 58,000 reported actual miles and this is reflected in its fine condition.

There are few more recognizable sounds in the automotive world than a flathead-powered Mercury sporting dual exhausts – a sound that is enhanced in a convertible with the top lowered. It is the sound of a generation and remains an icon of popular culture. All this car needs is an open road and someone such as you to drive it.