Highlights

Exceedingly rare high-end ‘50s V8 sedan
Potentially the only one in the world in two-tone Grove Green and Tuxedo Black
Has been running and driving since import
Accompanied by a substantial collection of spares including many stainless steel and chrome trims
Restoration started with the fuel tank refurbished, “trunk” lid repainted and several other jobs completed
Highly original and complete

The Appeal

Fans of rare ‘50s Americana are in for a real treat. This 1956 Mercury Montclair is a seldom-seen survivor of a bygone age.

For the uninitiated, the Mercury brand was founded by Edsel Ford to bridge the gap between Ford and Lincoln model ranges. The Montclair was introduced in 1955 as a well-equipped full-size sedan, believed to have been named after the fashionable Montclair township of New Jersey. For the 1956 model year, so-called “Flo-tone” colour schemes were introduced, whereby the roof and lower bodywork were painted in a contrasting hue to the upper bodywork. The effect was striking, particularly when the colours were so vibrant and stark in contrast as the Grove Green and Tuxedo Black showcased on this four-door Montclair sedan.

It hardly takes an expert to see that this Mercury is now in need of more than a little spit and polish. But that said, it presents an excellent starting point for restoration as a highly original, highly complete and exceedingly rare car. You may never encounter another example in the UK, and the vendor’s research is yet to uncover another anywhere in the world to match this car’s exact specifications.

Unfortunately, a change in circumstances has resulted in this project stalling, so it’s time for someone new to take this car on and return it to the road. It is eminently worth saving and has been in running order since the vendor brought it to the UK in 2018. They’re confident that the V8 would fire up again with light recommissioning, and a great many spares accompany the car, ready for you to get started.

The History and Paperwork

US Certificate of Title present
Not currently UK road registered
The car will qualify for road tax and MOT exemption
27,217 miles indicated
The vendor imported the car in 2018
A change in circumstances prompts a reluctant sale

The Condition

In need of extensive bodywork restoration
As the photographs show, the body is notably corroded and holed in places
Commendably straight overall, with well-fitting doors and panels
The glass and trim appear in fair order, with some pitting in places
The vendor is including all the spares they have amassed, including many stainless steel and chrome trims
“Trunk” lid restored and repainted (at considerable expense) and refitted
The heavily patinated paintwork is reportedly the original “Flo-tone” scheme
Much of the interior looks salvageable and is in very good order considering its age

The Mechanics

5.1-litre (312 cu in) 225 horsepower V8
Three-speed Merc-O-Matic automatic transmission
All looks highly original under the “hood”
The vendor drove the car between storage yards several years ago, commenting that it ran very well
The engine has not run for some time, but should start again with minimal recommissioning according to the vendor
When last driven, the brakes were not working properly; the master cylinder broke when disassembly was attempted, so a replacement item is included in the same
The fuel tank has been restored and repainted, ready to refit

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..

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✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

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