Mercury M47 239 V8 1948
General description :
SUPER RARE MERCURY M-47, QUALITY RESTO., 239 FLATHEAD V8, 3 SPD, GREAT DRIVER!!
When you pull up in this one, we bet everyone will say, "I didn't know Mercury made trucks!" Well they did, and this 1948 Mercury M-47 is your opportunity at a complete example of one of these rare pickups.
This one looks a whole lot like the legendary Ford F-1 that also debuted in 1948. That's because Mercury needed a pickup for Canadian dealers that did not have a Ford outlet near them. So a handful of Fords got the Mercury treatment. This includes the more intricate grille, unique badging, and extra trim on the front fender. And of course, it's just really cool to have a tailgate with the Mercury name stamped into the metal. Beyond these unique and correct styling cues, you have the components from the first-year Ford F-series pickup. So this is truly the best of both worlds where you have a cool classic that has the look and parts availability of an iconic Ford, and also you have an extra standout presence. In fact, this one was meant to be distinctive in all the best ways. The paint looks like dark chocolate candy; the real wood truck bed is quite distinguished; and the polished wheels add the right amount of Mercury flair.
The cab was built for long-lasting function. There's plenty of dashboard space, thanks to an uncluttered feeling. Muddy work boots are not a problem because the rubber floor mat means this cleanup is as simple as a garden hose. Despite this utilitarian feel, there have been a couple of nice upgrades, such as the exterior-matching dark brown paint and a newer vinyl bench for comfort. This Mercury reflects the Ford F-1's blue-collar roots, and so as you grab three-spoke wheel, you can feel the groves of all the workers who relied on similar pickups for decades. There is no radio, but it will hardly be missed because this pickup will make you want to whistle a worker's tune on every road trip.
The 239 cubic-inch flathead V8 was the larger of the two motors offered from the Ford lineup in '48, so this special Mercury gets the upgraded wallop of power. Plus, the three-speed manual transmission keeps you in control of it all. The modern tires are hardly noticed from the outside, but they are appreciated for their wider presence and superior control. In the end, the full experience of being behind the wheel feels like rolling history without any of the downside.
You've seen what the first-year Ford F-1s are going for these days, so it's impressive that you can get an even more distinctive and complete Mercury version for a comparable price. But that's only true if you act quickly on this unique pickup. Call today!!!
Features : Vinyl Interior
http://www.streetsideclassics.com/vehicles/0772-tpa/1948-mercury-m-47-pickup
1948 Mercury M47 239 V8 is listed sold on ClassicDigest in Lutz by Streetside Classics for $28995.
Car Facts
Car type : Car Make : Mercury Model : M47 Model Version : 239 V8 Engine size : 0.0 Model Year : 1948 Sub type : Pick up Location : Tampa
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About Mercury
Mercury, the automotive brand, has a rich history that extends beyond its role in the customization and hot-rodding scene, particularly with the iconic Mercury Eight. Here are some key points to know about Mercury:Formation and Early Years:
Mercury was introduced by the Ford Motor Company in 1938 as a mid-priced brand, positioned between the affordable Ford models and the luxury Lincoln lineup. The brand aimed to fill the gap between these two segments.
Mercury Eight:
The Mercury Eight, launched in 1939, is perhaps the most famous model in the brand's history. It featured a sleek design and a powerful V8 engine. This model became popular for customization and hot-rodding, earning it a significant place in American automotive culture.
Customization Culture:
The Mercury Eight, with its distinctive styling and relatively affordable price, became a favorite among custom car builders. It played a pivotal role in the development of the custom car and hot rod culture, particularly in the post-World War II era.
Lead Sleds and Customization:
The term "lead sled" is often associated with heavily customized cars from the 1940s and 1950s. These cars, including the Mercury Eight, were often modified with lowered suspensions, chopped roofs, and other stylistic changes. Lead sleds were a prominent part of the custom car scene, and the Mercury Eight was a popular choice for such modifications.
Post-War Prosperity:
In the post-World War II period, Mercury, like many other American automakers, experienced a surge in popularity as the economy boomed. The brand contributed to the era's fascination with stylish and powerful automobiles.
Evolution of Models:
Over the years, Mercury continued to produce various models, contributing to Ford's lineup. Some notable models include the Mercury Monterey, Mercury Comet, and Mercury Cougar.
Decline and Discontinuation:
Despite periods of success, Mercury faced challenges in establishing a unique identity separate from Ford. As consumer preferences shifted, the brand struggled, and Ford eventually announced the discontinuation of Mercury in 2010.
Legacy in Popular Culture:
Mercury, especially models like the Mercury Eight, holds a significant place in American popular culture. Its association with the customization and hot-rodding scene, as well as its distinctive designs, has left a lasting impact.
In summary, while the Mercury Eight is celebrated for its role in the customization and hot-rodding subculture, Mercury as a brand played a broader role in automotive history, contributing to mid-priced segments and reflecting the automotive trends of its time.