Up for sale is this unique and unmolested 1978 Cougar XR7. This car is completely original including the paint, interior, drivetrain and wheels. While most people aren’t seeking out these late 70’s luxury coupes, they shouldn’t be overlooked. These cars ride beautifully, have plenty of cruising power and have a style that can’t be replicated by anything on the road today. This car is no exception. This car spent its life on the coast of Southern Oregon with one couple enjoying the car since new and for the ensuing 37 years until they decided it was past the point where they should continue driving. They gave it to a neighbor who had always admired the car since he was a kid but he realized soon after that a classic car just didn’t meet his family’s needs. That’s how I came to own it.
This Cougars beautiful and understated seventies color scheme attract loads of attention wherever it goes. This car has just over 105,000 original miles. Since this Cougar is largely original, you will find cosmetic issues in the paint and trim, indicative of a car that has seen road time but none of those impede your ability to enjoy the car and participate in the collector car hobby for a very reasonable buy-in.
The XR7 was the epitome of luxury for the Mercury line in the late ‘70’s and was equipped with an upgraded instrument and interior package as compared to the standard Cougar and also included unique opera windows, different taillights and rear trim along with the more stately humped deck lid. The XR7 was just a wonderfully designed upgrade from the standard Cougar and one that is rarely seen today.
This Cougar was originally equipped with A/C, PS, PDB, console and AM radio. The car is in its original color scheme of Champagne Metallic over a Ginger bucket seat interior with a dark brown padded half vinyl top with whitewall tires and aluminum wheels.
There are some flaws in the paint along with some small rock chips from being used regularly earlier in its life but the paint has lots of life left in it and shines beautifully. The only rust is a small bubbling on the leading edge of the hood but it hasn’t broken through the paint and isn’t really noticeable until you get right up on it. There are no other major scratches, dents, scuffs, etc. The vinyl top is intact but sun faded from its time on the Southern Oregon coast. It returns to its rich brown color whenever treated with a vinyl protectant. The front windshield and rear window are both in good condition with no cracks. The driver’s window has some scratches but nothing to major.
The chrome bumpers are in original condition with some crazing but still will shine and fit the condition of the rest of the car perfectly. The anodized aluminum and stainless trim on the car is all in good driver condition. The chrome on the grill and taillights has some pitting but is certainly serviceable for a driver. The door handles and quarter window moldings are still shiny but have some pits and flaws which are noticeable upon inspection.
The gauges, headlights, marker lights, interior lights and taillights all work as they should and the lenses are in nice condition. The side windows roll up and down as they should with no issues. The interior is in remarkable condition for being original. The dash pad, instrument cluster, seats, door panels, console, package tray and headliner are all in great shape with no rips, tears or extensive wear with the exception of a hole about the size of a pencil eraser on the driver’s outboard seat back. It is hidden by the seatbelt so it’s barely noticeable. The driver’s door panel has a cracked piece on the rear which you can’t see when the door is closed. The piece that came off is in the console and may be able to be glued back on. The carpet is worn on the driver’s side and has a rip near the foot-controlled bright switch but the rest is pretty nice for being 38 years old.
The original 351M 2V starts up and runs smoothly. There are no unusual noises or leaks and the car goes down the road just as it should. The engine compartment could use a detail if you are going to show the car but is exactly what you should expect from an original, untouched car. The 2.75:1 differential works as it should and makes for a nice highway cruiser. The exhaust system is original style and is quiet like these cars should be. The FMX transmission functions as it should and shifts well at the proper shift points. The power steering, power disc brakes and suspension components are all in good driver condition and work as designed. The master cylinder and brake booster are new as is the radiator, condenser and several other engine accessories. The A/C blows on high but doesn’t get as cold as it should. It probably needs to be recharged.
The tires are relatively new with plenty of tread. The aluminum wheels have some pitting and other flaws but look good from 5 feet. The center caps are all off the car due to the poor design and plastic construction. They just don’t stay on but they are included and you can modify them if you like to get them to work or buy new ones.
This is a great driving Cougar that is fun to tool around in and gets lots of looks as it is rolling down the road. It’s not a perfect show car by any means but is a nicely equipped driver quality car in a classy color combination. This is a car that you can get into for a reasonable price and enjoy it as you slowly make any improvements you desire. Dare to be different. You’ll be the only one on your block with a car like this.
This Cougar is currently registered as a collector vehicle in the state of Washington with a correct year of manufacturer license plate and 1978 tab. You will never have to pay tabs again nor go through any emissions testing but can still use and enjoy the car. This car is currently located in Federal Way, WA which is about 25 miles south of downtown Seattle. Included in the sale are the original owner’s manual, lots of receipts for work that has been done, the original sales contract and a number of spare parts that will all fit in the trunk.
Price for the car is $3,250 or best offer-no trades. Contact Jeff at jcbingcougar@comcast.net or call/text 253-350-4353 to arrange a viewing or to get additional information.
