Although it is a much larger looking car than the new Ford, the 1949 Mercury actually preserved its former 118-inch wheelbase. A stepped feature line 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 between 1946 and 1948 and 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 Convertible offered here was the recipient of a body-off restoration. The majority of the work was performed by Eddie Martinez three years ago in California, and it was completed by the present owner. The Mercury was refinished in rich metallic blue, which contracts beautifully against its cream-hued interior. It was equipped with numerous desirable features and is outfitted with a three-speed manual transmission with overdrive; power windows, seat, and convertible top; an AM radio; a heater; and a very rare optional steering wheel. The owner notes, “I have been driving it and enjoying it. It runs great, and the undercarriage is as nice as the top.”