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1968 Mercury Cougar

The '68 Cougar? A personal luxury coupe that slayed. Think sleek lines, a sporty stance, and that iconic long hood/short deck look. It was a hit, bridging muscle car power with refined style, perfectly capturing the spirit of its era. A true '60s icon!

Classic Car Enthusiasts' Corner: The 1968 Mercury Cougar

Ah, the 1968 Mercury Cougar—a gem from the muscle car era, standing tall with its luxurious touch and roaring performance. Born out of Ford Motor Company's ambition to offer something more refined than the Mustang, the Mercury Cougar charmed its way into the hearts of car lovers who wanted both flair and power. With a design hinting at European sophistication (Jaguar, anyone?), it's no wonder this classic has rocked the collector's world.

Photo of a 1968 Mercury Cougar

1968 Mercury Cougar Models:

Select the vehicle's model to see the correct data for it.

How Much is Mercury Cougar Worth?

Original MSRP :$2,933.00

Outstanding

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$188,000

Clean

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$150,000

Average

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$119,000*

Rough

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$97,100

1968 Mercury Cougar Specs

Body Maker: Mercury
No. Of Doors: 2
Model Number: 65A/65C
Length: 190.3 inches
Width: 71.3 inches
Height: 58.5 inches
Wheelbase: 111 inches
Weight: 3,094lbs
Type: Own V8, Overhead valve, Dual downdraft, Fully synchronized
Displacement: 302 cu. in.
Cylinders: 8
Bore And Stroke: 4 & 3 inches
Compression Ratio Standard: 9.0 to 1
Horsepower Brake: 210@4600
Horsepower Rated: 51.2
Torque: 300@2600
Main Bearings: 5
Valve Lifters: Hydraulic
Lubrication: Pressure to all bearings excluding wrist pin
Carburetor Make: Autolite
Type:
3.5 Pints
Drive:
Rear wheel drive
Clutch Type:
Single plate dry disc
Clutch Size:
10 inches
Gear Ratios:
3
Gear Ratios First:
2.99 to 1
Gear Ratios Second:
1.75
Gear Ratios Third:
1 to 1
Gear Ratios Fourth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Fifth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Reverse:
3.17
Type: Semifloating
Differential Type: Hypoid
Differential Ratio: 2.79 to 1
Front: Independent ball joint with coil springs
Rear: Hotchkiss
Service Type: Hydraulic, self-adjusting drums
Service Front Size: 10 inches
Service Rear Size: 10 inches
Emergency Type: Rear service brakes
Emergency Size: 10 inches
Type: Regular
Tire Size: E70 x 14
Spare Location: Trunk
Fuel: 17 Gallons
Oil: 4 Quarts
Rear Differential: 4 Pints
Front Differential: Not applicable
Transfer Case: Not applicable
Serial Number:Starting 8a91F500001
Total Digits:11
Digits 1:Model year
Digits 2:Assembly plant
Digits 3-4:Body style
Digits 5:Engine
Digits 6-11:Production number
All colors may not be available in all models., Onyx, Black Cherry, Nordic Bllue Metallic, Madras Blue Metallic, Lime Frost Metallic, Polar White #2, Diamond Blue, Pewter Beige Metallic, Glacier Blue #2 Metallic, Augusta Green Metallic, Cardinal Red, Caribbean Blue Metallic, Saxony, Wellington Blue Metallic, Grecian Gold Metallic, Tahitian Rose Metallic, Calypso Coral, Fawn
Hardtop: Opt
Power Transfer Axle: Opt
Performance Handling Package: Opt
Dual Exhaust: Opt
Power Front Disc Brakes: Opt
Power Steering: Opt
AM-FM Stereo Radio W/Antenna-Push Button: Opt
Styled Steel Wheels: Opt
Wheel Covers-Deluxe(Incl W/Decor Group): Opt
Wheel Covers-w/Recessed Spinners: Opt
Wheel Covers-Wire: Opt
Whisper-Aire Conditioning: Opt
Adj. Headrests: Opt
Tinted Glass (Complete): Opt
Visual Check Panel: Opt
Rear Window Defogger: Opt
Other Tires: Opt
Tilt-Away Steering Wheel: Opt
Shoulder Belts: Opt
Merc-O-Matic Automatic Transmission: Opt
427 Cu. In. V8 Engine: Opt
390 Cu. In. V8 Engine: Opt

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History of the 1968 Mercury Cougar

The Cougar journey is rooted in the late 60s when the car hit the market as a polished alternative for those who appreciated the Mustang's zest but craved a bit more style and comfort. Known for its elegance, the interior boasted something every driver could appreciate – round gauges, cozy bucket seats, and options galore like air conditioning, AM radios, and power brakes. Ford even made safety a priority, rolling out features like seat belts at a time when regulations started embracing safety-first attitudes【4:0†file】.

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Famous Figures Who Own 1968 Mercury Cougars

John Mellencamp

You hear John Mellencamp's name, and what comes to mind? Maybe "R.O.C.K. in the U.S.A." but did you know this rocker grooves to the beat of a 1968 Cougar? Known as "Johnny Cougar" back in his early music days, Mellencamp's owned this classic baby, adding that extra dose of cool to its legacy【4:0†file】.

Fun Facts about the Mercury Cougar

The Cougar wasn't just about everyday driving; it brought the heat with some fierce under-the-hood power. The GT-E variant, for instance, was geared with a robust 427 V8 engine, perfect for those who loved a roaring start and fast-paced drives. And if you thought the car was just about looks and raw speed, think again. The car's performances in films like "Styx" and "Model Shop" only reinforced its cultural prominence【4:3†file】.

1968 Mercury Cougar Gallery

Photo of a 1968 Mercury Cougar
Photo of a 1968 Mercury Cougar
Photo of a 1968 Mercury Cougar
Photo of a 1968 Mercury Cougar
Photo of a 1968 Mercury Cougar
Photo of a 1968 Mercury Cougar
Photo of a 1968 Mercury Cougar
Photo of a 1968 Mercury Cougar
Photo of a 1968 Mercury Cougar
Photo of a 1968 Mercury Cougar
Photo of a 1968 Mercury Cougar
Photo of a 1968 Mercury Cougar
Photo of a 1968 Mercury Cougar
Photo of a 1968 Mercury Cougar

Detailed Specifications of the 1968 Mercury Cougar

From top-notch engines like the 427 V8, delivering a commendable 390 horsepower, to standard and optional features, the Cougar was arguably ahead of its time. Its design and features were straight out of a car aficionado's dream, with customizable interiors and manual transmission options that let drivers own the road, however, they saw fit. The Cougar's ability to compete with muscle car heavyweights was evident in its 0 to 60 miles per hour time, which hovered around 7 seconds【4:3†file】.

Interested in buying or selling a classic car?

If you're considering diving into the world of classic cars, knowing the full history of your vehicle is key. And for sellers, that bit of paperwork isn't just a formality—it could affect your sale.

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You want to look up that vintage gem's past? A can give you a wealth of information. For those needing insight on their vehicle's origins prior to 1981, the is a treasure trove. Looking specifically at a 13-digit VIN? Well, don't miss out on the for more precision【4:0†file】.

And if you really want to get personal with your vehicle's backstory, acquiring a brings you the desired clarity. Guess what? Even a offers in-depth details on your vehicle's original specifications, giving you a treat in automotive history.

The 1968 Mercury Cougar—timeless, bold, and as fierce as its name. Through its magnetic presence in the world of auto enthusiasts, it remains an essence of classic Americana. Whether you own one or dream of adding this iconic vehicle to your collection, the tale and impact of the Cougar are undeniably epic【4:1†file】.

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Explore Mercury Cougar from Other Years

Frequently Asked Questions

Well, the '68 Cougar was a real looker, wasn't it? Think sleek, sporty lines—a total departure from the more conservative designs of the era. It shared some mechanical bits with the Mustang, sure, but it had its own unique personality; a longer wheelbase, more luxurious interior appointments, and—let's be honest—a certain je ne sais quoi. It was like the Mustang's sophisticated older sibling, if you will; more refined, yet still plenty spirited. The overall design was more upscale and, dare I say, a bit more grown-up, which is why it appealed to a different buyer. That's something you really don't see much anymore in today's market. It carved its own niche, and it did it in style.

Ah, the powerplants! You had quite a selection, actually. From the smaller, more economical six-cylinder for everyday driving, to the mighty big-block V8s that would leave you grinning ear to ear. The 302 was a popular choice, offering a good balance of performance and fuel economy—relatively speaking, of course; these aren't exactly fuel sippers! But if you really wanted to make a statement, you could go all out with a 428 Cobra Jet – that was a beast of an engine! It really depends on what you were looking for; I mean, do you want a daily driver or a showstopper? These big V8s were truly something else and, boy, did they sound good.

Like any classic car, there are some things you should keep an eye out for. The electrical system can sometimes be a bit temperamental – those old wires can get brittle. The suspension components might need some attention after all these years, and you'll want to check the brake system thoroughly for safety's sake—that's non-negotiable! Rust is another common problem, especially in areas with harsh winters; think about it like a slow, insidious decay—you gotta catch it early. And honestly, any car that's fifty-plus years old is bound to have a few quirks; it’s just part of the charm, and if it’s well-maintained you could potentially be avoiding some of these, depending on the owner before you. Regular maintenance is key. Always get a pre-purchase inspection from a mechanic specializing in classic cars—it's an investment worth making.

Values vary wildly depending on condition, originality, and options. A nicely restored show-quality car can fetch a pretty penny. On the other hand, a project car that needs major work will cost considerably less—and you can expect to spend quite a bit to bring it back to life! Think of it like this: it's a sliding scale. Condition is everything; it's the single most important factor in determining a vehicle's worth in this market. Always consult current market data and pricing guides like Hagerty or ClassicCars.com for a better understanding. Those sites are invaluable if you want the most accurate pricing.

Finding parts can sometimes be a quest, but there are many dedicated suppliers for these cars. You'll probably find what you're looking for online, through classic car parts specialists or even at swap meets; those are awesome for finding parts you wouldn't necessarily be able to find on the internet! There are also a bunch of online forums and communities dedicated to the Mercury Cougar; there’s a real sense of community. Folks are super helpful and happy to share their knowledge and experience—a true treasure trove of expertise. You can definitely find good restoration shops; these guys have done this a million times over, so getting advice from them is always valuable.