1970 Mercury Cougar

Gateway Classic Cars Houston showroom is pleased to offer this classy Autumn Copper 1970 Mercury Cougar. The Cougar was Lincoln-Mercury's complement to Ford's wildly successful Mustang. The first Cougar came to market 2 model years after the Mustang, debuting in 1967; but it was aimed at a more upscale market. Although they were practically twins, there were subtle differences that separated the two. The Cougar had a 3-inch longer wheelbase than the Mustang, and didn't share any body panels, despite being built on basically the same platform. Unlike the Mustang, the first Cougars did not offer a 6-cylinder model: the base engine was the 4.7L (289 CID) V8, with bigger displacement engines offered for those desiring more performance. Buyers could choose from two models - the base, or the upgraded XR-7. A GT package was available on either the base or XR-7. This 1970 Cougar is the base model.

According to its owner, this Cougar is on just its 2nd family: the owner's father purchased the car from its original owner in 1976, and the car has been in their family since. Reportedly one of the "Houndstooth Edition" Cougars, a special edition with design touches courtesy of the famed French designer Hubert de Givenchy, which included the houndstooth fabric cloth inserts in the interior, and (originally) a houndstooth pattern vinyl top. The vinyl top was one of the few things that they did away with, in addition to the original 2BBL carb and intake. A Holley 4BBL was installed, along with an Edelbrock intake. The rest of the Cougar is very much like what it was when they acquired it, and subsequently lovingly cared for it over the next 45 years. The 351 CID V8 is backed by its original 3-speed automatic transmission, which shifts smoothly through the gears. Out back is the original 9-inch rear end, with 3.50:1 gears. The paint looks good, and the chrome is in good shape as well. This Cougar rides on a set of chromed Cragar mags, which are shod with some good-looking Mickey Thompson radials, size P235/60R15 up front, and P275/60R15 out back. The staggered sizes help add a more aggressive note to its stance, as well. Inside, the interior looks great for its age, with the materials and fabrics having aged very well - one will find it difficult to detect defects. The seating surfaces look very good, and the carpet appears original, with only minor fading. The original AM/FM/8-track radio is intact, but it does need to be brought back to working order. This car has what you want if you're getting into your first classic - it's ready for its 3rd family, so don't let it slip through your grasp! For more information on this 1970 Mercury Cougar, to see all the HD pictures and videos of it, copy the URL below, and see it at this direct link: www.gatewayclassiccars.com/show/HOU/2048 . Alternatively, you may also call the showroom at (832) 243-6220 or email us at for more info.