Classic Auto Mall

6180 Morgantown Road, Morgantown, PA 19543
4.7
4.7 out of 5 stars

Used 1963 Mercury Monterey

For Sale:$17,500

$1,400(-7.4%)price drop

Estimated payment:$397/mo.
$0 trade-in, 10% down payment, 48 months, Great credit score

SequenceDatePrice ChangeCurrent Price
1.2/23/2025 (a year ago)$19,900
2.5/21/2025 (a year ago)-$1,000 (-5.0%)$18,900
3.6/26/2025 (10 months ago)-$1,400 (-7.4%)$17,500
  • Wagon
  • Condition
    Used
  • Transmission
    3 Speed Automatic
  • Exterior Color
    Castilllian Gold
  • Interior Color
    Gold
  • VIN
    -

Engine

390 V8

Message from the seller

1963 Mercury Monterey Custom Sedan I'm not sure that air conditioning in automobiles had even a 35% take rate by 1963. It was still an option in most luxury cars. Adding the equivalent of a box fan at the front door, (your cowl vent system), and opening the kitchen door out back, (your rear window), must have seemed like a good idea. Packard initially tinkered with the idea of a reverse slant roll down rear window for the Balboa X show car of 1953. Intended as a coupe variant of the Caribbean convertible, the disastrous year of 1954 made the coupe a moot point for Packard. They sold the design rights for a reverse slant roof to Ford. Ford then tinkered with the idea of a reverse slant roll down rear window on various concept cars. One of the earliest examples was the Lincoln Diplomat concept from 1956. But in the one blast of uniqueness that characterized the whole life of Mercury, the finally unique models of 1957 brought the wondrous wind tunnel to its top-of-the-line Turnpike Cruiser models. For consignment, a Camelot era Mercury in the form of a 3 owner 1963 Mercury Monterey Custom sedan. Yes, it's a breezeway car with a roll down rear window, 36,466 original title verified miles and all original condition! Bathed in Castilian gold and the interior fabric with its metal thread to die for, it's a real 60's time capsule. Roll down that rear glass, (just part way otherwise it will buffet!), slip inside and let's go into the way back machine Peabody. Exterior A chromed inward V shaver style front grille has dual wide bezel headlights on either side and it leads the way proudly. A wide curved wrap around bumper is below and now we can talk about the steel, of which I can mention has no rust, plenty of patina as it is original Castilian Gold paint from the factory. The gaps are well minded, the doors have nice chromed window framing and the roofline is truly unique in its own cool way particularly on that B pillar. A long, LONG trunk line sporting a tasteful fin on either side frames another shaver styled back end chrome piece that has 3 Dixie cup shaped tail lights on either edge and a near perfect chromed bumper below. Badging looks just fab and oh that roll down rear glass, no other car that was even remotely successful can tout having that. This, a pre A/C car that boosted Mercury sales in '63. The car rides on 14-inch wheels wrapped in 215/75R14 thin whitewall, (like the ties of the era), tires. Groovy and hip in a West Coast kinda way. Also showing some success in life, as it's a Mercury. Interior Now we're talking' as we swing the doors, it's the money shot with panels that interplay gold stitched tuck and roll vinyl with a warm cream vinyl and thin chrome strips as delineations. Rich looking shiny cranks and the paddle actuator in the front of the armrest complete the package. Take a deep breath and breathe it in, (I mean the 60's are about to flood your senses), as we sit upon probably the coolest retro seat coverings my bottom has experienced! Yes kids we are talking stitched with metal thread in gold tuck and roll vertical and square pattern for the seats and backs in broadcloth. On the tops, a thinner tuck and roll broadcloth in gold make an appearance. Breaking up these gold panels are the warm cream vinyl with just enough width to add interest that you cannot look away from. On the center of these stripes is a gold thin vinyl piece to break it up as well...just genius. And let me tell you this seating is just beautifully preserved, (do I sound like a used car salesman??!), I'm just in love! Ok, on to the dash where I'm on the stick of the Millennium Falcon when I look through the two tone plastic cream and gold steering wheel, very large and in charge. I see a curved speedo within a brushed aluminum field, those low original miles on the odometer, and just below a lineup of round visored chrome bezel gauges. And below that more candy for the eyes with a curved inward ri

1963 Mercury Monterey: A Touch of Elegance in the Mid-Size Market

The 1963 Mercury Monterey represented a significant step for Ford's premium marque, aiming to offer a blend of style, comfort, and performance within the increasingly popular mid-size segment. Positioned as a more affordable and slightly smaller alternative to the larger Montclair and Park Lane models, the Monterey successfully carved out its niche by delivering a sophisticated driving experience without the hefty price tag or unwieldy dimensions of its larger brethren.

Styling and Design:

For 1963, the Mercury Monterey adopted a clean and modern aesthetic, reflecting the evolving design trends of the early 1960s. The exterior featured crisp lines and a generally understated elegance.

  • Front End: The signature Mercury grille, often referred to as the "waterfall" grille, dominated the front fascia. It was typically a wide, horizontal affair with vertical bars, giving the car a distinguished and substantial presence. Quad headlights, a popular feature of the era, were housed in chrome bezels, flanking the grille. The hood was relatively flat, leading to a slightly raked windshield.
  • Side Profile: The Monterey showcased a straight, clean beltline that ran the length of the car. Chrome trim accentuated the fenders and doors, adding a touch of luxury. Wheel covers were standard, though optional wire wheels or more ornate covers were available. The wheelbase was substantial for a mid-size, contributing to a planted stance.
  • Rear End: The rear design was equally tidy, often featuring horizontally mounted taillights that were integrated into the rear fenders. A chrome bumper and, depending on the body style, subtle tail fins added to the car's classic appeal.

Body Styles:

The 1963 Mercury Monterey was available in a range of popular body styles to cater to diverse customer needs:

  • 2-Door Sedan: A sleek and sporty option for individuals or couples.
  • 4-Door Sedan: The quintessential family car, offering ample passenger space.
  • 2-Door Hardtop: This popular body style boasted a pillarless design when the windows were down, creating an open and airy cabin.
  • Convertible: For those who desired open-air motoring, the Monterey convertible provided a stylish and enjoyable experience.
  • Station Wagon (Country Cruiser): Mercury also offered a station wagon variant, typically known as the Country Cruiser, which provided practical cargo space and family-friendly seating.

Powertrain and Performance:

Underneath its elegant exterior, the 1963 Mercury Monterey was equipped with robust V8 engines, reflecting the American preference for powerful and smooth performance.

  • Standard Engine: The base engine was typically a 352 cubic inch V8, known for its reliability and decent power output for everyday driving.
  • Optional Engines: For buyers seeking more spirited performance, larger V8s were available, such as the 390 cubic inch V8. These engines provided increased horsepower and torque, making for more effortless acceleration and highway cruising.
  • Transmission: The standard transmission was a 3-speed manual, though the highly popular 3-speed "Merc-O-Matic" automatic transmission was widely available and a common choice for its ease of use and smooth shifting.

Interior and Comfort:

The interior of the 1963 Monterey was designed with comfort and a touch of luxury in mind. Mercury aimed to provide a premium feel without the ostentatious displays sometimes found in higher-end models.

  • Seating: Bench seats were standard, offering comfortable seating for up to six passengers. Upholstery options typically included durable cloth or vinyl.
  • Dashboard: The dashboard featured a functional and stylish layout, with clear instrumentation and easy-to-reach controls. Chrome accents and high-quality materials contributed to the upscale ambiance.
  • Features: Standard features often included interior courtesy lights, armrests, and a heater. Optional features could enhance comfort and convenience, such as power steering, power brakes, air conditioning, and an AM/FM radio.

Market Position and Legacy:

The 1963 Mercury Monterey positioned itself as a strong contender in the mid-size market, offering a compelling package of style, comfort, and V8 power. It appealed to buyers who desired the prestige and refinement associated with the Mercury brand but were perhaps looking for something more manageable or affordable than the larger, more extravagant full-size models. The Monterey represented Mercury's commitment to providing a well-rounded and attractive automobile that could compete effectively in a competitive automotive landscape. Today, the 1963 Monterey is appreciated by collectors and enthusiasts for its classic American styling, comfortable ride, and reliable V8 power.

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Listed on February 23, 2025 (a year ago)
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