For 1955, the freshly restyled Mercury lineup featured a longer, lower styling theme, with the new Montclair taking its place at the top of the model line. The Mercury brand was much more than badge-engineered “upscale Fords,” as it appealed to the growing numbers of new-car buyers that demanded more for their money than basic transportation. With a successful product strategy that emphasized powerful and modern overhead-valve V-8 engines, glamorous two-tone paint treatments, and a multitude of standard and optional amenities, Mercury attracted record sales in 1955.

In 1956, Mercury advertising copy expanded on this successful formula: “You are ready to start a beautiful new friendship with a car that looks big, rides big, and is big in every way…your 1956 Mercury.” It goes on to categorically state, “Your Mercury gives you not just beauty, but distinctive, exclusive styling; not just higher horsepower, but more useable horsepower; not just higher resale value, but the best resale value in the field.” In addition, the five NASCAR Grand National victories won by Mercury in 1956 created even more enthusiasm and favorable press for the marque. The old adage held true; “win on Sunday, sell on Monday.”

This Montclair Convertible is one of a reported 7,762 similar cars built, and it is finished in attractive two-tone Saffron Yellow over Tuxedo Black adorned with gleaming chrome and stainless trim elements and enhanced by a complementary black and white interior with silver piping, which is reported to replicate the original. A new Stayfast Haartz convertible top is featured in black; it has a black boot and the tops power operation is eased by a new top motor, cylinder and hoses. The Mercury has undergone a complete rotisserie frame-off restoration with the results showing to be exceptional, including the undercarriage and engine compartment.

The Mercury is equipped with the dependable 312-cid V-8 engine with a four-barrel carburetor and new dual exhaust. It is paired with a Merc-O-Matic automatic transmission for ease of use and smooth motoring. Among the amenities include power steering, rebuilt Town & Country radio, clock, dual fender-mounted rearview mirrors, rear fender skirts, tissue dispenser, heater, Continental kit and new wide whitewall radial tires with full factory wheel discs. The Montclair runs and drives excellent and is an outstanding auto for the discerning collector.