Although it is a much larger looking car than the new Ford, the 1949 Mercury actually preserved its former 118-inch wheelbase. It also had a stepped feature line that ran from the front fenders, across the doors, back along the rear quarter, and dipped down to the bumper. While Mercury shared Ford’s new independent front suspension and open driveline, it departed from the common engine program that was in place between 1946 and 1948, and it received a larger 255-cubic inch version of the flathead V-8. The new car, which was introduced in April 1948, was well-received. Model year sales expanded six-fold from 1948, which was aided in part by a longer model year. In all, more than 300,000 were sold.

The iconic Convertible offered here, one of 16,765 produced, underwent a complete restoration in its previous ownership, during which it was beautifully refinished in show-quality Metallic Red Firemist, with a durable and tasteful two-tone grey vinyl interior and a matching silver-grey dashboard and trim, as well as a full power black Haartz cloth top. Gleaming replated chrome and polished stainless trim can be found on the grille guard, the correct Mercury full-disc wheel covers, and the gas door molding. The package is completed by power windows, a factory AM radio, a clock, rear fender skirts, and wide whitewall tires. Slight custom features, including tinted glass, slightly lowered suspension, and chrome headlamp “eyelids,” give the car a period look.

Under the hood, the powerful V-8 engine is fully painted and carefully detailed to factory standards, with correct decals, Ford-scripted hoses, and proper wiring clips and hose clamps. The dual exhaust, which was not standard in 1949 but still fun, provides just the right throaty exhaust note.

As this handsome and beautifully presented Mercury features one of the most popular, attractive, and collectible designs of the 1950s, it will look right at home at the local cruise night or malt shop.