1950 Mercury Eight Restomod

Description

This custom build merges two legends. It has the unmistakable look of a 1950 Mercury Eight coupe with some lead sled kind of style. But as you dig a little deeper, you'll discover this has the fuel-injected power and chassis from the last rear-wheel drive Chevrolet Impala SS. So take some time looking at one of the coolest custom builds around.

The 1950 Mercury Eight has always been one of the most sought-after cars for the custom scene. That awesome chrome grille, torpedo-like silhouette, and premium personality have made it a prime custom classic for generations. This one retains a touch of true classic flair with the bright chrome bumpers and full-length trim showing off the good lines of the sheet metal. But what really gives it added personality is the upgraded smoothness with deleted badging, sport mirrors, fenders skirts, and of course, those bright smoothie wheels with whitewalls. At the heart of this sleekness is the glossy application of Black Cherry paint. This color was also popular on the 1996 Chevrolet Impala SS. As you start to discover more of the integrated Chevy features, it really feels like a very cool way to bookend classic performance cars. After all, the Mercury lead sled was one of the first custom performance hot rods out there. And the 1996 Impala basically represents the last generation of full-size rear-wheel-drive muscle cars direct from the factory. So this custom combination feels quite purposeful.

The custom presentation continues inside. The light gray has a premium look, and it's a nod to the interior color of the Impala SS. But the two rows of wide bench seats with detailed stitching is pure 1950s cruiser cool. You have nice upgrades, like power front windows, a custom center console, a tilt steering column, and a full set of classic-style VDO gauges. There are even provisions for air conditioning (it will need servicing before blowing cold again.) Also, elements like the steering wheel, floor shifter, and AM/FM/CD stereo are all hints at the GM power within.

The engine bay really shows off this car's upgrading. After all, there's no mistaking a fuel-injected heart. The donor Impala SS was a true legend because it shared the Corvette's 5.7-liter LT1 V8 motor. It makes for a terrific modern custom that fires up easily, idles nicely, and has the power to pull this Mercury with authority. The four-speed automatic transmission was built to pair with this motor, so it knows how to shift smoothly all the way into overdrive. The Impala was also used to upgrade the suspension with an updated independent front end and trailing arms with sway bar in the rear. Plus, power steering, power brakes, and front discs make sure this Mercury/Chevy remains a terrific cruiser.

This is an awesomely finished custom build that makes for one of the best driving hot rods around. So if you want to get everyone talking about your ride tomorrow, you need to call today!