Image of 1958 Mercury Commuter, sourced from www.bransonmuseum.com , Image Link.

1958 Mercury Commuter: A Station Wagon with Panache

The 1958 Mercury Commuter is a testament to the era's fascination with space and speed. Born from the stables of the Mercury division of Ford Motor Company, this station wagon was designed to offer both functionality and style. At a time when America was captivated by the Space Race, the Commuter's design was a nod to the future, with its sleek lines and jet-inspired aesthetics.

Unique among its peers for its hardtop styling—lacking a B-pillar—the Commuter offered an unobstructed view from side to side, a feature that set it apart in the marketplace. This vehicle not only served as a comfortable family car but also reflected the optimism of post-war America, where bigger often meant better.

Design and Innovation

The 1958 Mercury Commuter's exterior styling was bold and forward-thinking. Its long body, accented by sweeping side trim, gave it an appearance of motion even when parked. The front grille, wide and imposing, was flanked by quad headlamps that were becoming en vogue at the time. The rear featured a subtle fin design, hinting at the space-age influence without being overly ostentatious.

Inside, passengers were treated to an interior that prioritized comfort and space. The quality of materials—from plush seating fabrics to durable floor coverings—reflected Mercury's commitment to creating a premium experience. Technological features for its time included a push-button transmission and innovative safety measures like seat belts, which were still optional in many vehicles.

Color options ranged from classic whites and blacks to more vibrant shades that captured the spirit of the decade. Popular choices often included two-tone combinations, which accentuated the vehicle's lines and added to its visual appeal. Body styles varied, but it was the two-door hardtop wagon that remains most iconic among classic car enthusiasts.

Historical Significance

The 1958 Mercury Commuter played a pivotal role in solidifying the station wagon as a mainstay in American culture. It bridged the gap between utilitarian transport and personal luxury vehicle. Its design influenced subsequent models across manufacturers and helped usher in an era where cars were not just modes of transportation but statements of personal style and preference.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its stylish exterior, the Commuter boasted performance that was respectable for its class. With engine options that included a powerful 383 cubic inch V8, it could achieve top speeds that belied its size and offered acceleration capable of going from 0-60 mph in under ten seconds—a notable feat for a family wagon.

The ride quality was smooth, absorbing bumps with ease thanks to its robust suspension system. On windy roads, it handled with poise, though it never pretended to be a sports car. The driving experience was characterized by the throaty rumble of its V8 engine—a sound that evoked power and reliability.

Ownership Experience

The 1958 Mercury Commuter found its place as a versatile vehicle suitable for daily driving or as an eye-catching show car. Its reliability was commendable; however, like many vehicles of its time, maintenance could be straightforward or complex depending on the specific repair needed. Parts availability today can pose challenges but are part of the joy for classic car enthusiasts dedicated to preservation.

Fun Facts

A little-known trivia about the Commuter is that it occasionally graced silver screens and television sets in period films and shows, adding authenticity with its distinctive presence. While not known for breaking speed records or dominating sales charts, it has held a place in automotive history for its unique combination of style and practicality.

Collector's Information

In terms of collectability, the 1958 Mercury Commuter holds moderate interest among classic car aficionados. Estimates suggest that several thousand units were produced; however exact figures are elusive. Values can vary widely based on condition, originality, and options but generally range from $10,000 to $50,000 or more for well-preserved examples or those with desirable features.

The market has seen an appreciation for well-maintained station wagons as collectors seek out less common alternatives to traditional coupes and convertibles. As such, prices for models like the Commuter have been gradually increasing over time.

Conclusion

The 1958 Mercury Commuter stands as an emblematic piece of Americana—a blend of space-age optimism and practical innovation wrapped in sheet metal. It may not have been the fastest or most luxurious car of its time, but it offered something perhaps more enduring: character and charm that continue to captivate enthusiasts today.

1958 Mercury Commuter Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D-BN 11Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D., 3/4" high, with 5/8" I.D. Each

1958 Mercury Commuter 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

1958 Mercury Commuter 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

1958 Mercury Commuter 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

1958 Mercury Commuter Hood Bumper. Each-HF 1Hood Bumper. Each

1958 Mercury Commuter 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

1958 Mercury Commuter 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.