Debuting with a splash, the Mercury Cougar convertible wasn’t for the faint of wallet. At $3,575, the XR-7 was the priciest option, nearly $600 more than the base Cougar hardtop.
Power came standard from a 250-horsepower 351 engine, but Mercury offered a buffet of heartier options. A four-barrel version bumped output to 290 horses, while the 390 V8 with a two-barrel carburetor was dropped in favor of a more potent four-barrel variant.
The crown jewel, however, was the 428 Cobra Jet. This engine churned out 335 horsepower, with a tire-shredding Super Cobra Jet option available boasting a whopping 400 horsepower.
![Rare Mercury Cougar Convertible](https://daxstreet.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rare-Mercury-Cougar-Convertible1.jpg)
Notably, the convertible featured on eBay is one of only 96 Cougars sporting a unique engine and transmission pairing, thanks to a replacement block installed in 1969.
With only 394 ever painted in its specific color, this particular XR-7 becomes even more exclusive as just 110 share the identical paint and trim combination.
Adding to its collectability, only 127 were built with the desirable Ram Air induction system. While boasting tasteful upgrades like modern wheels, lighting, and air conditioning, this exceptional car remains in fantastic condition, showcasing the best of classic design with modern convenience.
Priced at $169,000, this Texas-based Cougar XR-7 is a true head-turner waiting to be driven and cherished by its next fortunate owner.