1967 Mercury Comet

1967 MERCURY CALIENTE, 289 V8, AUTOMATIC, FACTORY AIR CONDITIONING, LONG-TERM COLLECTOR OWNERSHIP! This beautiful 1967 Mercury Caliente, finished in a terrific period-correct-looking combination of Dark Green with a Dark Green Vinyl Top and Light Green Vinyl Interior. Powered by a 289 cubic-inch V8, backed by an automatic transmission, and equipped with desirable factory air conditioning that is currently blowing cold, this is a wonderful example of a Mercury you simply don't see at every cruise night or car show. The Caliente occupies an interesting place in Mercury history. The Comet had begun life as a compact, but by the 1966 model year Mercury moved it onto a larger 116-inch-wheelbase intermediate platform. For 1967, Mercury further distinguished the different models in the lineup, with the Caliente positioned above the more basic 202 and Capri and offering a more upscale level of trim and appointments. And that's a big part of the appeal of this car today. Everyone knows the Mustangs, Chevelles, Camaros, and Fairlanes—but a clean 1967 Mercury Caliente is something different. It has the classic proportions and styling of the era, yet it's unusual enough that even seasoned enthusiasts may stop and take a second look. Under the hood is the legendary 289 cubic-inch V8, one of Ford Motor Company's most recognized small-block V8s of the 1960s. The 289 was a factory-available engine in the 1967 Caliente, with period specifications listing the two-barrel version at approximately 200 horsepower and 282 lb-ft of torque. The V8 is paired with an automatic transmission, making this Caliente a comfortable and enjoyable classic to drive. It runs good and has also been recently serviced, an important consideration for anyone looking for a vintage automobile they can actually get out and enjoy rather than simply park in the garage. One of the highlights of this particular Mercury is its factory air conditioning—and it is currently blowing cold! Air conditioning was still a relatively expensive luxury option in 1967. Period information lists the A/C option at approximately $356, which was substantial money when new. Factory air adds considerably to the enjoyment of a classic today, particularly here in Florida. The color combination is another standout feature. The Dark Green exterior has a classy, understated appearance that fits this Mercury perfectly. It is complemented by a Dark Green Vinyl Top, giving the car an even more upscale late-1960s appearance. Open the doors and you'll find a beautiful Light Green Vinyl Interior, creating a great contrast against the darker exterior. Mercury put extra emphasis on the Caliente's interior appointments, with period literature noting features such as wood-grain instrument and door-panel trim, deep-loop carpeting, luxury armrests, and bright paddle-style interior door handles as part of the Caliente's upscale presentation. The styling of the 1967 model is also distinctive. Mercury updated the front end with a full-width grille, while the coupes and sedans received vertical rear lamps. Combined with the long hood, clean body sides, stacked headlamp design, and restrained use of brightwork, the result is a handsome automobile that represents the transition from early-'60s styling into the muscle-car era. Another part of this car's story that we really like is its ownership history. The previous owner was a collector who enjoyed long-term ownership of the car. Cars like this don't always survive because someone planned on selling them they survive because someone appreciated them enough to keep them. That longtime collector ownership, combined with the recent servicing, V8 power, automatic transmission, and working factory air conditioning, makes this a particularly appealing classic for someone who wants something that can be both shown and driven. And rarity of sight is part of the fun. Pull into a show with a red Mustang or Chevelle and you'll probably find another on