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1957 Mercury Montclair: A Gleaming Jewel of the Late '50s

The year 1957 brought forth a vehicle that encapsulated the exuberance of its era—the Mercury Montclair. Born from the Ford Motor Company's desire to compete in the mid-luxury market, the Montclair was a blend of style, comfort, and modest opulence. It was during this time that Mercury made significant strides to distinguish itself from its parent company, Ford, and its perennial rival, General Motors. The Montclair, with its unique features and bold design, became a symbol of this effort. A notable moment in the vehicle's history was when it became synonymous with the '57 Mercury Turnpike Cruiser engine option, which showcased Mercury's commitment to performance and innovation.

Design and Innovation

The 1957 Mercury Montclair's exterior styling was nothing short of striking. With its sweeping lines and jet-inspired aesthetics, it stood out as a forward-thinking design. The vehicle's side trim descended along the rear fender, creating a visual effect that was both dynamic and elegant. Inside, passengers were treated to a cabin that boasted high-quality materials such as plush fabrics and chrome accents. The dashboard was an exercise in space-age design, featuring a unique "keyboard control" push-button transmission and a deep-dish steering wheel. Technological features for the time included an optional power-adjustable front seat and innovative "Phaeton" four-door hardtop body style that gave the illusion of a convertible with the practicality of a hardtop. Color options ranged from classic whites and blacks to more adventurous shades like "Persimmon" and "Classic Green." The two-tone paint schemes were particularly popular among buyers seeking extra flair. Among body styles—which included sedans, coupes, and convertibles—the Sun Valley version with its distinctive glass roof panel stood out as an iconic choice for those wanting to bask in sunlight without the muss of a traditional convertible.

Historical Significance

The Montclair's impact on automotive design was profound; it pushed boundaries in terms of both aesthetics and features. It set itself apart with its emphasis on luxury at an accessible price point—a philosophy that would influence future generations of vehicles. The integration of upscale features as standard or affordable options democratized luxury for many American car buyers.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its stylish exterior, the 1957 Mercury Montclair packed a punch with its robust V8 engine options. While exact top speeds varied depending on engine configuration, these vehicles could achieve impressive acceleration for their time, with some models capable of going from 0-60 mph in under 10 seconds—a commendable feat for a full-sized luxury car. On the road, drivers appreciated the Montclair's poised handling; it navigated bumps with grace thanks to its coil spring suspension while maintaining stability on windy roads. Behind the wheel, one could not help but be immersed in the experience—the throaty rumble of the engine, the smoothness of the ride, and a sense of control that made driving more than mere transportation; it was an event.

Ownership Experience

The Montclair served various roles—from daily driver to show-stopping classic at car meets. Its reliability was commendable for its era, though modern owners should expect maintenance typical of vintage vehicles. Parts availability is reasonable given its shared lineage with other Ford products from that period.

Fun Facts

A piece of trivia that adds charm to the Montclair's legacy is its occasional spotlight in Hollywood films—often cast as an icon of '50s luxury. While not known for breaking speed records, it did set sales records for Mercury at the time. Criticisms were few but did include remarks about fuel consumption—a common trait among vehicles from this period.

Collector's Information

Today's collector market sees the 1957 Mercury Montclair as a desirable piece. Though production numbers were not insignificant—with estimates suggesting tens of thousands produced—surviving examples in excellent condition are less common. Values can vary widely based on condition and originality but expect well-preserved or expertly restored models to fetch anywhere from $20,000 to $60,000 or more at auction. Price trends suggest appreciation over time as enthusiasts seek out models emblematic of '50s Americana—a trend likely to continue as these vehicles become rarer.

Conclusion

The 1957 Mercury Montclair stands as a testament to an era when cars were more than just machines—they were statements. From its eye-catching design to its luxurious appointments and solid performance, it remains an enduring piece of automotive history that continues to captivate collectors and classic car aficionados alike.

1957 Mercury Montclair Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D-BN 11Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D., 3/4" high, with 5/8" I.D. Each

1957 Mercury Montclair Shock Absorber Grommet. 1-1/4" bottom O.D., 1" high-BN 12Shock Absorber Grommet. 1-1/4" bottom O.D., 1" high., with 3/4" I.D. Each

1957 Mercury Montclair Spring and Shackle Bushing. 7/8" bottom O.D-BN 19Spring and Shackle Bushing. 7/8" bottom O.D. X 1-1/4" high, with 1/2" I.D. Each

1957 Mercury Montclair Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D-BN 6Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D. X 1/2" high, with 3/8" I.D. Each

1957 Mercury Montclair Hood Bumper. Each-HF 1Hood Bumper. Each

1957 Mercury Montclair Front Fender Lower Rear Plug and Door Vent Adjustment Plug-SB 58-AFront Fender Lower Rear Plug and Door Vent Adjustment Plug. Fits 1-5/16" hole. Each

1957 Mercury Montclair Trunk Seal. Each-TK 42-18Trunk Seal. Each

1957 Mercury Montclair Flexible window channel-WC 10-96Flexible window channel. Rubber covered with mohair lining and stainless steel bead. 96 in. long. Each. NOTE: $20 special shipping charge applies for domestic orders. Call or email for overseas shipping costs. Part can be sectioned in two or three equal lengths to reduce overseas shipping costs.