The Mercury was introduced in 1939 as Ford’s mid-level line, priced to compete wîth Pontiac and Oldsmobile. Edsel Ford took the lead in developing the line, naming it after the fleet-footed messenger of the gods. Although early Mercury’s were frequently viewed as upscale Fords, brisk performance helped the car achieve a dedicated following. The line attained a stronger identity after World War II wîth the establishment of the Lincoln-Mercury Division.
The 1941 Mercury was completely restyled, with a two-inch longer wheelbase and a wider selection of models. New were a two-passenger coupe and a four-door wagon, while the romantic convertible sedan was dropped. The Mercury was mechanically unchanged, though the flathead V-8 gained five horsepower for ’42, when a new clutchless transmission called “Liquamatic” was also briefly offered.
The 1941 Mercury Eight presents important advances in comfort and roominess, new beauty in its clean styling and commanding
size. Its extraordinary ease of handling is a revelation to the must experience drivers. It is а саг that could be created only from the unique research, production ami engineering facilities of the Ford Motor Company.
