The Comet was still a new presence in the automotive market in 1964, but Mercury decided it was ready for a second generation.
The 1964 model year greeted the Comet with a redesign that made it look boxier, with the carmaker trying to make the vehicle feel fresh in every regard. The engine lineup was refreshed, too, as the company dropped the 144 six-cylinder unit, offering a 170 (2.8-liter) Thriftpower six-cylinder mill as the base choice.
The 260 V8 (also offered on the early Mustangs) landed on the Comet, too, but the company eventually replaced it with a 289 (4.7-liter). Ford used a similar approach on several other models, including the Mustang, with the 260 removed from the lineup to make room for a 289 2-barrel (offered as the base V8 starting in late MY 1964).
A 1964 Mercury Comet recently showed up on eBay with a super-mysterious package, with the images showing the car sitting in a field and the owner providing almost no information. The vehicle looks rusty but not as rusty as expected, considering it’s a model likely parked outside.
The owner says the complete body is there and exhibits “very little damage.” While I agree on the complete part, I’m not sure the damage is minimal, especially because the rust has already invaded most metal sheets. The hood shows signs of rot around the edges, so you’ll have to inspect everything in person before buying this Comet.
We’re not getting a close look at the cabin, but the front seats and the door panels are still in place. It’s good news, as the door panels typically leave a car quickly when becoming a donor for other projects. It could be a sign the Comet could be complete, but you’ll have to check this out in person when you inspect everything else.
And since we’re here, make sure you look under the hood too. The engine is still in the car, but we only know that it’s a V8. It’s unclear if it still starts, though I admit it doesn’t look good in the engine photo. I wouldn’t be surprised to see the V8 locked up, mainly because the vehicle has been sitting for a long time, but a good mechanic should need only one minute to tell if it turns over by hand.
The selling price is fair, as seller williechappell1977 expects to get $2,500 for their rough project. You should be able to get the car even cheaper, considering the (likely) non-working engine and the metal problems, and it’s why the owner also enabled the “Make Offer” button. You can find it in Sylvania, Georgia, and you’ll need a trailer to take it home if you negotiate a deal.