Slip Inside This Rare 1966 Mercury Comet Cyclone

One thing that makes a car collectible is rarity, especially considering as the years pass by there are likely to be fewer and fewer survivors. That’s why it’s key to know there were only 1,305 cars like this 1966 Mercury Comet Cyclone Convertible ever made. If you’ve never seen one before, there’s a chance you might not again, unless you grab this example from Ideal Classic Cars.

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The fact this Comet Cyclone is extremely clean makes it just that much more desirable. That sexy convertible body is what makes this Comet Cyclone so rare. It flaunts a Burgundy exterior with white stripes on the lower panels. Complementing that statement of strong simplicity are modern US Mag allow wheels, really giving this ride an even more unique spin.

Pairing up nicely with the exterior is the Parchment interior. Vinyl bucket seats look and feel nice, while a center console adds a little more luxury to this Mercury. Speaking of luxuries, power steering is included

Motivation comes via a hot 289ci V8 with a 4bbl carb. You get to use a correct Toploader 4-speed manual through a Hurst shifter, adding an unexpected edge to this ride. Helping you hook up for awesome, tire-smoking launches is a 3.00 rear end. Dual exhaust just makes this vehicle sound more intimidating, encouraging you to downshift to hear it howl.

Originally launched in 1960, it was in 1966 that the Mercury Comet finally grew up from a mostly overlooked compact to a much more compelling mid-size car. Not only had the wheelbase grown by two inches, the body design was all-new and far more mature. While traditionally overshadowed by the Mercury Cougar and the Ford Mustang, enthusiasts on a tighter budget have found the Comet Cyclone to provide plenty of thrills behind the wheel. It’s a great vehicle to add to a new or growing collection.