1964 Mercury Comet Caliente Convertible

Description

A rare classic drop-top with low production numbers, plenty of originality, and its correct-style F-code 260 V8... 1964 Mercury Comet Caliente Convertible is quite desirable even before you look at the shining paint and solid investment that make it a terrific cruiser.

This Mercury has true rarity on its side. The upper-trim Caliente was the only way to get a drop-top Comet, and there were only about 9k produced. That's quite impressive considering how many more mainstream Mustangs were produced in 1964, and they weren't even available for the full model year. This one is even more distinct because it seems to have been out of public view for a while, and it was properly resurrected from an estate sale. So there's a preserved originality in details like the wire wheel covers, wide chrome pumpers, and premium Lincoln-like front end. Plus, the Comet Caliente really knew how to be impressive. The sheet metal has a sweeping line stamped into the profile, and the three-element taillight panel is pure '60s cool. The factory-correct Polar White was given a professional respray during its lifetime, and so it radiates nicely on this convertible. And when you do have the power top raised in place, the clean look and taut fit uphold the premium Mercury style.

The Caliente earns its name with a red-hot interior. The trim tag tells us this is the factory-correct color combo, and so you just know this one has looked terrific with the top down since day one. It's very stock and clean where any updates were done with the correct pieces, including the newer carpeting. This has some classic premium details, like the color-matched convertible boot, the AM radio for a display, and the intricate stock steering wheel with the Mercury logo at the center. But the little things like the added engine temp gauge are also a reminder that this classic likes to be a proper cruiser today. Plus, bucket seats with a center console in-between are always a desirable driver's feature.

The reason why we can compare a Comet to a Mustang is that they both had the 260 cubic-inch V8 offered this year. And so it's great to see this displacement still under the hood today. It has a very original look to the bold blue block and the matching valve covers and air cleaner. But this was also properly resurrected from its slumber. That means newer investments in key areas like the carburetor, hoses, water pump, fuel pump, and an aluminum radiator. And the investments don't stop at the motor. There are also newer shocks, lower front control arms, ball joints, braking system, and tires. Add in power steering and a three-speed automotive transmission, and you have quite a solid drop-top cruiser.

A rare drop-top American classic presented with both style and substance... oh yes, this Comet Caliente Convertible is one hot deal. Call today!!!