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2021 Shannons Winter Timed Online Auction
Lot
84

1949 Ford Mercury Convertible (LHD)

PASSED IN

Melbourne

Passed In

Specifications

Engine 255ci eight-cylinder
Gearbox Three-speed manual + overdrive
Body Work Convertible
Colour Black
Interior Burgundy/sand
Trim Vinyl
Wheels Steel with hubcaps
Brakes Drum/drum

Description

This lot is no longer available

The first all-new Mercury after WWII was introduced in 1949 with a flathead OHV V8 that produced slightly more power than the also newly designed 1949 Ford. The styling of the 1949 Mercury Eight ended the monotony of warmed-over pre-war styling and differentiated the Mercury from its comparable Ford cousin. Its fluid lines and sleek styling really captured the hearts of Americans looking to put the drab War years behind them, and both the Mercury and its Ford sibling broke sales records that year. Among the features that the ’49 Mercury brought to the market was a new overdrive system activated by a handle under the dash and an 8 tube AM radio, both optional, plus full instrumentation which was standard. The Mercury Eight quickly became popular with customizers as modified versions appeared even in period and became known as "lead sleds", a nomenclature that continues today. Customizer Sam Barris built his first lead sled in 1949, when the model was brand new, and went on to build the famous Hirohata Merc in 1953, also based on a ’49. The Mercury Eight remains very popular today with rodders, restorers and even car modelers alike.