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Unveiling the 1939 Mercury Series 99A: A Pioneering Blend of Luxury and Performance

The 1939 Mercury Series 99A emerged as a bold statement of luxury and innovation, marking a pivotal moment in automotive history. Born from the ambitious vision of Ford Motor Company, the Mercury brand was conceived to bridge the gap between the everyday Ford models and the upscale Lincoln line. The Series 99A was Mercury's inaugural model, making its debut in a world on the brink of profound change. This vehicle not only reflected the aesthetic and technological zeitgeist of the late 1930s but also set new benchmarks for mid-priced cars. A notable moment in its storied past includes serving as a pace car for the Indianapolis 500, cementing its place in automotive lore.

Design and Innovation: Crafting Elegance on Wheels

The exterior of the 1939 Mercury Series 99A exuded a sense of streamlined sophistication with its teardrop headlamps and art deco trim. The car's silhouette was both stately and dynamic, featuring a prominent grille that became a signature element of Mercury design. Inside, passengers were enveloped in an ambiance of understated luxury, with high-quality fabrics and finishes that belied the vehicle's mid-market positioning. Technological advancements included a cutting-edge downdraft carburetor and a column-mounted gearshift, which provided an uncluttered floor space. Buyers could choose from an array of contemporary color options, with rich hues like Lyon Blue and Black Cherry being among the favorites.

The Series 99A offered various body styles, including sedans, coupes, and convertibles. The most iconic was arguably the convertible coupe, which perfectly captured the era's spirit with its combination of open-air freedom and elegant lines.

Historical Significance: Setting New Standards

The introduction of the Mercury Series 99A had a profound impact on automotive design and technology. It filled a market niche that demanded more than basic transportation but sought something less ostentatious than a luxury limousine. With features like hydraulic brakes and an advanced suspension system, it set itself apart from contemporaries by offering both comfort and performance at an accessible price point. The Series 99A's legacy is evident in how it influenced subsequent generations of vehicles that aimed to blend affordability with premium attributes.

Performance and Handling: A Symphony on Asphalt

Underneath its stylish exterior, the 1939 Mercury Series 99A boasted impressive performance credentials for its time. Its flathead V8 engine propelled it to top speeds that rivaled more expensive cars while delivering smooth acceleration from 0-60 mph that drivers found exhilarating. On various driving conditions, from bumpy rural roads to sleek city streets, the car maintained composure thanks to its well-tuned suspension system. Behind the wheel, drivers enjoyed a symphonic blend of engine purrs and road feedback that made every journey memorable.

Ownership Experience: More Than Just Transportation

Owners of the 1939 Mercury Series 99A enjoyed a versatile vehicle that served multiple roles—from daily commuting to weekend leisure drives or even as an eye-catching showpiece at local car meets. Its reliability was commendable for the era, with maintenance being relatively straightforward for mechanically inclined individuals. However, some components could be challenging to source due to their age and rarity.

Fun Facts: The Mercury Series 99A's Legacy Lives On

This classic has been associated with various unique trivia over time; for instance, some models were rumored to have been owned by Hollywood celebrities seeking understated elegance. Although not known for breaking speed records, it did set sales records for a new marque at launch. Common criticisms often revolved around its weight affecting fuel efficiency—a minor quibble given its many virtues.

Collector's Information: A Cherished Classic with Growing Appeal

Today, collectors cherish the 1939 Mercury Series 99A for its historical significance and beauty. While production numbers were not meticulously recorded during that period, estimates suggest several thousand units were produced. As for value range, pristine examples can fetch significant sums in today's market—often ranging between $30,000 to $60,000 or more depending on provenance and condition—with prices generally appreciating over time due to their increasing rarity.

Conclusion: Celebrating an Automotive Icon

The 1939 Mercury Series 99A stands as a testament to an era when cars were more than mere transportation; they were statements of style and technological ambition. Its influence is still felt today in vehicles that seek to offer luxury within reach—a concept first popularized by this remarkable machine. For enthusiasts and collectors alike, the Mercury Series 99A remains not just a relic of automotive history but a living legend on four wheels.

1939 Mercury Series 99A Fender Grommet. 1-1/8" O.D., 3/8" I.D. Each-BC 28Fender Grommet. 1-1/8" O.D., 3/8" I.D. Each

1939 Mercury Series 99A Fender Washer Cushion. 1" O.D., 3/8" I.D. Each-BC 31Fender Washer Cushion. 1" O.D., 3/8" I.D. Each

1939 Mercury Series 99A Clutch and Brake Pedal Pads-CB 106Clutch and Brake Pedal Pads. Made with molded steel core and threaded stud. 3" diameter. Pair

1939 Mercury Series 99A Door Bumper. 3/4" high X 1-7/16" wide X 9/16" thick. Each-DB 40Door Bumper. 3/4" high X 1-7/16" wide X 9/16" thick. Each

1939 Mercury Series 99A Tail-light Pads. 3-1/4" wide X 4-5/8" long. Pair R&L-MP 1001-ATail-light Pads. 3-1/4" wide X 4-5/8" long. Pair R&L

1939 Mercury Series 99A Running Board Covers. Each is made in one piece-RB 3301Running Board Covers. Each is made in one piece. Perfect reproduction. Pair

1939 Mercury Series 99A Glove Box Bumper. 9/16" O.D., 1/4" High, 13/16" Long-SB 103Glove Box Bumper. 9/16" O.D., 1/4" High, 13/16" Long. Two used per vehicle. Each

1939 Mercury Series 99A Distributor Ignition Boot. 3-1/8", 1-1/4" O.D., 3/4" I.D-SM 65-DDistributor Ignition Boot. 3-1/8", 1-1/4" O.D., 3/4" I.D. Each

1939 Mercury Series 99A Choke and Throttle Cable Grommet. Fits a 9/16" hole-SM 83Choke and Throttle Cable Grommet. Fits a 9/16" hole. Angled hole in part. Each

1939 Mercury Series 99A Horn to Bracket Grommet. 5/8" I.D., 1-1/8" O.D-SM 87Horn to Bracket Grommet. 5/8" I.D., 1-1/8" O.D. Fits 13/16" Hole. Each

1939 Mercury Series 99A Headlight Wires through Inner Splash Pan, Front Fenders-SM 96Headlight Wires through Inner Splash Pan, Front Fenders. Two used per car. 3/8" I.D., 1-5/16" O.D. Each