Mercury Cougar (1967-70)

The Mercury Cougar XR-7, like many classic cars, has its share of common faults. Here are a few issues that owners often encounter:

1. **Electrical Problems**: Issues with the electrical system, such as faulty wiring and malfunctioning switches, are common.
2. **Ignition Issues**: Problems with the ignition system, including difficulties starting the car and issues with the ignition switch.
3. **Transmission Problems**: Some owners report issues with the transmission, such as difficulty shifting gears.
4. **Brake Problems**: Faulty brake components and issues with the brake system can also be a concern.

Classic cars often require regular maintenance and care to keep them running smoothly.
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Generations/Trim Levels
The Mercury Cougar XR-7 has gone through several generations and trim levels over the years. Here's a brief overview:

### Generations
1. **First Generation (1967-1970)**: The original Cougar, including the XR-7, was based on the Ford Mustang platform. It featured a more luxurious interior and a longer wheelbase.
2. **Second Generation (1971-1973)**: This generation saw the Cougar grow in size and move towards the personal luxury car market.
3. **Third Generation (1974-1976)**: The Cougar was further enlarged and shared its platform with the Ford Torino.
4. **Fourth Generation (1977-1979)**: The Cougar was downsized and shared its platform with the Ford Thunderbird.
5. **Fifth Generation (1980-1982)**: The Cougar continued to be a personal luxury car, with a focus on comfort and style.
6. **Sixth Generation (1983-1988)**: This generation saw the Cougar adopt a more aerodynamic design.
7. **Seventh Generation (1989-1997)**: The Cougar was redesigned with a more modern look and improved performance.
8. **Eighth Generation (1999-2002)**: The final generation of the Cougar was a sport compact car, quite different from its predecessors.

### Trim Levels
- **Standard**: The base model with essential features.
- **XR-7**: The luxury trim level, featuring leather seats, woodgrain dash panels, full instrumentation, and additional interior lighting.
- **Eliminator**: A performance-oriented trim level available in the first generation, featuring more powerful engines and sportier styling.

The XR-7 trim was known for its luxurious features and was available in multiple generations, making it a popular choice among classic car enthusiasts.
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Engines
The Mercury Cougar XR-7 was offered with a variety of engines over its production years. Here are some of the notable options:

### First Generation (1967-1970)
- **1967-1968**:
- 289 cubic inch V8 (4.7L)
- 302 cubic inch V8 (4.9L)
- 390 cubic inch V8 (6.4L)
- 427 cubic inch V8 (7.0L)
- 428 cubic inch V8 (7.0L)

- **1969-1970**:
- 351 Windsor V8 (5.8L) - 2V and 4V versions
- 390 cubic inch V8 (6.4L)
- 428 Cobra Jet V8 (7.0L) - with or without Ram Air
- Boss 302 V8 (4.9L)

These engines provided a range of power and performance options, making the Cougar XR-7 a versatile and popular choice among car enthusiasts.
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Performance
The performance of the Mercury Cougar XR-7 varied depending on the engine and model year. Here are some examples:

### 1967-1970 (First Generation)
- **289 cubic inch V8 (4.7L)**: Around 200-225 horsepower, 0-60 mph in approximately 8-9 seconds.
- **302 cubic inch V8 (4.9L)**: Around 230 horsepower, 0-60 mph in approximately 7-8 seconds.
- **390 cubic inch V8 (6.4L)**: Around 320 horsepower, 0-60 mph in approximately 6-7 seconds.
- **428 Cobra Jet V8 (7.0L)**: Around 335-360 horsepower, 0-60 mph in approximately 5-6 seconds.

### 1971-1973 (Second Generation)
- **351 Windsor V8 (5.8L)**: Around 250-275 horsepower, 0-60 mph in approximately 7-8 seconds.
- **429 cubic inch V8 (7.0L)**: Around 370 horsepower, 0-60 mph in approximately 6-7 seconds.

### 1989-1997 (Seventh Generation)
- **4.6L V8**: Around 205 horsepower, 0-60 mph in approximately 8-9 seconds.

These figures are approximate and can vary based on the specific configuration and condition of the vehicle. The Mercury Cougar XR-7 was known for its blend of luxury and performance, making it a popular choice among car enthusiasts.
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Dimensions
The dimensions of the Mercury Cougar XR-7 varied slightly depending on the model year. Here are the dimensions for the first generation (1967-1970):

- **Length**: Approximately 190.3 inches (4,835 mm)
- **Width**: Approximately 71.2 inches (1,808 mm)
- **Height**: Approximately 51.8 inches (1,316 mm)
- **Wheelbase**: Approximately 111 inches (2,819 mm)

These dimensions contributed to the Cougar XR-7's sleek and sporty appearance, making it a standout in the classic car world.
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Spares/Specialists NI
For locating spares for your Mercury Cougar XR-7 in the UK or Ireland, you can check out the following online stores:

- [Auto Parts Pro](https://www.autopartspro.co.uk/mercury-cougar-carparts): They offer a wide range of parts for the Mercury Cougar.
- [EU Spares](https://www.euspares.co.uk/original-parts/mercury/cougar/cougar-saloon): Another good option for finding original parts for your Cougar.

As for garage services in Northern Ireland, there are several reputable garages that can help maintain your classic car:

- [Commons Brae Garage](https://bing.com/search?q=garage+services+Northern+Ireland): Located at 188 Saintfield Road, Belfast.
- [McCormick's Garage](https://www.mccormicksgarage.co.uk/): Located at Unit 1, Glenford Way, Newtownards.
- [East Hills Garage](https://www.facebook.com/T-M-Garage-294328434063729): Located at 34A Beechill Park Avenue, Belfast.
- [Auto Services](https://autoserviceslisburn.co.uk/): Located at 27 Bachelors Walk, Lisburn.

These garages offer a range of services, including general repairs, servicing, and maintenance, which should help keep your Cougar XR-7 in top condition.
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Racing
The Mercury Cougar XR-7 did compete in racing, particularly in the late 1960s. One of the most notable racing endeavours was its participation in the SCCA Trans-Am Series. In 1967, Mercury put together a top-tier racing team, Bud Moore Racing, which campaigned Cougars driven by renowned drivers like Dan Gurney, Peter Revson, David Pearson, and Ed Leslie. The team was highly competitive and came very close to winning the manufacturer's championship, narrowly losing to the Shelby Mustang team.

The Cougar XR-7 was also involved in other racing events and was known for its performance and handling, making it a formidable competitor on the track.
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Valuation
The value of a Mercury Cougar XR-7 in the UK today can vary significantly based on its condition, history, and specific model year. Here are some general price ranges:

- **Average Condition**: Around £17,651
- **Highest Recorded Price**: £356,500
- **Lowest Recorded Price**: £1,254

These prices reflect recent sales and auction results. If you're looking to buy or sell one, it's a good idea to get a professional valuation based on the specific details of the car.
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