1970 Mercury Cougar XR-7

Mercury's upmarket pony car can be tastefully modified in myriad ways to improve its performance and appearance, as is evident in this example. The seller of this reimagined 1970 Mercury Cougar XR-7 reveals that he's only owned it for approximately four months and doesn't know much about it. He bought it from Hemmings and is now reselling it as-is. He additionally notes that the owner before him had contacted the previous dealer to obtain details for the XR-7's engine, driveline, suspension, and interior modifications, but none were available. - the previous owner stated that the Cleveland 351-cu.in. V-8 engine had been rebuilt about 3,000 miles ago. It is reported to start on the first attempt and has no leaks or weeps. It is equipped with a K&N air filter, Holley carburetor, an Edelbrock intake manifold, a serpentine accessory drive system, and Vintage Air A/C, but the extent of the internal modifications isn't known. An aluminum radiator and an electric fan enhance the cooling system. The previous owner had a new distributor and fuel pump installed. From the shape of its pan, the transmission appears to be an AOD four-speed automatic. The XR-7 was previously repainted Competition Orange and was outfitted with the hood scoop, rear spoiler, and Eliminator stripes. The seller makes no specific statement about the condition of the exterior, but the provided photographs show what appears to be a finish in overall good condition with no visible swirls, chips, scratches, or rust. There does appear to be a small dent in the rear valance panel, but the glass appears to be free of scratches or cracks and there seems to be no evidence of water leaks. - Custom upholstery dominates the cabin, and a thick-rimmed steering wheel and upgraded bucket seats were installed. There appear to be no cracks or tears in the seating material and the carpet and headliner appear to be in very good condition. AutoMeter Carbon Fiber Ultra-Lite gauges that replaced the stock dials, the upgraded Kenwood stereo system, and the power windows all are said to work, but the heater does not and the A/C doesn't blow cold. - There appear to be no visible leaks on the shocks and no cracked or damaged bushings in the suspension. From the photos, it appears to have also had a rack-and-pinion steering swap. The BFGoodrich Radial T/A tires, sized 235/60R15, are mounted on American Racing wheels that appear to have no curb rash or pitting, per the photos. The results of a previous owner's considerable investment of time and funds to build this modified 1970 Mercury Cougar XR-7 can soon be enjoyed by a new owner.