Image of 1959 Mercury Commuter, sourced from www.hemmings.com , Image Link.

1959 Mercury Commuter: A Station Wagon With Panache

The 1959 Mercury Commuter station wagon stands as a testament to the era of tailfins and chrome, a time when practicality met pizzazz on four wheels. Born from the innovative minds at Mercury, a division of the Ford Motor Company, this wagon was designed to cater to the burgeoning American family's need for space without sacrificing style. It emerged during an age when station wagons were transitioning from mere utility vehicles to symbols of suburban sophistication. A notable moment in its history is that it was part of the lineup during Mercury's 50th anniversary, adding a layer of commemorative allure to its legacy.

Design and Innovation

The exterior of the 1959 Mercury Commuter was a sight to behold, with its sweeping lines and bold contours. The wagon's profile featured a sleek silhouette accentuated by a distinctive side trim that visually lowered the car's stance. Its rear boasted the iconic tailfins of the era, albeit more subdued than some of its contemporaries, giving it an air of understated elegance. Inside, passengers were treated to a spacious cabin adorned with quality materials such as durable fabrics and chrome accents. Technologically, it offered innovations like an optional power rear window for easy access to the cargo area.

Color options ranged from classic whites and blacks to more vibrant hues that captured the spirit of the late '50s. Among these, shades like "Bermuda Sand" and "Tahitian Bronze" were popular choices that stood out in any crowd. The Commuter came in various body styles including two-door and four-door models, but it was the four-door hardtop version that truly captured hearts with its lack of a B-pillar, offering an unobstructed view when windows were down.

Historical Significance

The 1959 Mercury Commuter's impact on automotive design was significant in that it blended utility with luxury at a level not commonly seen in station wagons of that time. It set itself apart with its hardtop design—a rarity among wagons—and its more conservative use of tailfins which appealed to a market looking for sophistication without excess.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the Commuter didn't disappoint with performance either. Equipped with powerful V8 engines, it could achieve respectable top speeds for a family vehicle and had adequate acceleration for its class. Handling was typical for large cars of the era; while not sporty, it provided a comfortable ride over bumps and managed well on windy roads thanks to its weight and suspension setup. Drivers could expect a smooth journey complemented by the throaty hum of an American V8.

Ownership Experience

The 1959 Mercury Commuter served various roles from daily driver to show car enthusiast favorite. Its reliability was on par with expectations of the day, and maintenance was straightforward enough for the average owner who was familiar with basic automotive care. Parts availability now can be challenging but not insurmountable for dedicated collectors.

Fun Facts

In terms of trivia, while not as commonly associated with celebrity ownership as some sports cars of the era, the Commuter still found its way into notable garages due to its unique blend of style and practicality. It didn't set speed records but made its mark in sales and customer satisfaction. Criticisms at the time focused on its size—considered large even by standards then—but today it's this grandeur that attracts enthusiasts.

Collector's Information

Today, a well-preserved 1959 Mercury Commuter can fetch anywhere from mid-five figures up into six-figure territory depending on condition, originality, and historical significance. Production numbers weren't as high as more mainstream models making each surviving example relatively rare. The market trend shows appreciation for well-maintained or restored examples as collectors seek out unique pieces from this golden era of automotive design.

Conclusion

The 1959 Mercury Commuter remains an enduring icon that captures the essence of late '50s American automotive culture—a blend of family functionality with a touch of luxury. Its distinctive design and practical features ensure that it continues to hold a special place in the hearts of classic car enthusiasts around the world.

1959 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

1959 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

1959 Mercury Commuter Hood Bumper. Each-HF 1Hood Bumper. Each

1959 Mercury Commuter Hood Bumper. Made with steel core. Held by screw. Each-HF 40Hood Bumper. Made with steel core. Held by screw. Each

1959 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

1959 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.