Description
Cool as a cucumber. Just arrived at Shore Classics is this fully-optioned and totally original Mercury Bobcat imported from dry-state California just 2 years ago and presented in sun-bleached Bright Yellow paintwork, faux wood-panelling and very evocative Tan vinyl sport interior. Supplied with the optional 2792cc V6 Cologne engine and 3-speed Selectshift automatic transmission, this ultra-rare example of mid-1970`s classic Americana is perhaps the ultimate surf wagon and is perfect for UK roads, being just 14ft. long. Benefitting from lots of factory upgrades including the original 8-track radio, air-conditioning, power steering and power brakes, this is a very easy car to drive and could be used as a summer-daily. And you can guarantee to be the only one at shows this coming season. Come and experience it for yourself - but you may have to fight me for the keys first!
Launched in September 1970, the Ford Pinto was the first subcompact car to be produced by Ford and came in 3 distinct body styles, a 2-door fastback, a 3-door hatchback and 2-door station wagon, all initially available with a 1. 6 litre 4-cylinder Kent engine, deemed diminutive in US terms and not surprisingly somewhat underpowered. A 2-litre version followed shortly after in 1972 with the option of the Cologne-built V6 on offer from 1974 to coincide with the introduction of the more upmarket Mercury variant, the Bobcat. Supplied through Lincoln-Mercury dealerships, the Bobcat was effectively a rebadged Pinto and was offered as either a hatchback or wagon, branded the Villager. A choice of bright paint colours, sports interiors, various entertainment choices and mechanical upgrades all appeared on the Option List. The Villager Wagon was the most expensive model of the 1977 line-up and featured chrome-trimmed faux wood panelling, pop-out rear windows, chrome Rostyle wheels and a chrome roof-rack perfect for that Malibu board.
Our Bobcat dates from 1977 and was residing with long-term keepers in Clayton, a city near San Francisco, up until January 2023. It was then acquired by a UK-based enthusiast and shipped over only to be sold almost immediately to a gentleman in Liverpool. Whilst in his care, the car benefitted from a full brake overhaul, new rear shock absorbers, an overhaul of the vacuum system, replacement carburettor, a professional repair of two small areas of the front floor (due to underlay condensation) and the fitting of a full set of 14” Fox Body Mustang alloys with brand new tyres to enhance both handling and stance. Used for high days and trips to the beach, the Bobcat became a regular sight around the North West before heading South to Birmingham in September 2023 to the home of a classic car enthusiast seeking something different to add to his collection. Whilst in the Midlands, the car has been enjoyed sparingly and maintained regularly with notable work undertaken to include a new power steering pump and ancillaries, replacement fuel pump and rebuilt original stereo with now working 8-track player. The Bobcat has only been sold due to loss of storage and since acquisition, we have done little but polish it and enjoy.
The photographs tell the story here. This is a very original car. Both panel-work and sun-bleached Bright Yellow paintwork would seem wholly as it left the factory back in 1977 with a few minor stone chips on the bonnet, faded upper sections of the faux wood panelling and general wear associated with a California car approaching 50 years of age. Chrome and trim are generally excellent and the underside superb. The cabin features acres of Tan vinyl so in-keeping with the feel and age of the Bobcat and other than some wear apparent to the driver`s seat base, all is in fantastic order with chrome accents to dash and door-cards. Owing to the historic condensation issue, carpets in the front have been replaced with later mid-brown mats as has the boot carpet owing to historic staining. Turn the key and that ever-eager Cologne V6 fires immediately into life sounding purposeful and ready to cruise. Select Drive and the car pulls away smoothly with almost seamless changes from the 3-speed automatic gearbox. After recent work, both suspension and brakes feel excellent, steering light but still positive and road manners more akin from a car from the mid-1980`s. At just 14ft. in length and only 6ft. wide, this is exceedingly small by classic American standards but it makes it a very easy car to drive and live with on a day-to-day basis. On a sunny May morning, I took the Bobcat for a spin along the coast road to West Bay. To say I enjoyed it would be a massive understatement. I loved it! And the reaction the car gets on the road sublime -nothing that I have sat in this year has turned so many heads. And be prepared to talk about it knowledgably as everyone wants to know the story.
The Bobcat comes with a copy of it`s original US Title, an original Sales Brochure, Chilton`s Repair and Tune Up Guide for the Pinto Bobcat 1971-79, sundry bills, a current V5C and full set of keys. The car also benefits from it`s original Rostyle wheels and a selection of 8-track cassettes. The Bobcat is naturally both MoT and road-tax exempt.
One very cool car. So original too.
Shore Classics is based on the West Dorset coast within easy proximity of both Weymouth and the County town of Dorchester. As classic and vintage dealers, we offer full brokerage facilities. So if you require some help and guidance with selling your classic car or motorcycle, just give us a call today.
