Image of 1960 Mercury Country Cruiser, sourced from www.mad4wheels.com , Image Link.

Introduction

The 1960 Mercury Country Cruiser stands as a testament to the era of American automotive opulence, where size and style reigned supreme. Born from the ambitious design tables of the Mercury division of Ford Motor Company, this full-size station wagon was a symbol of suburban sophistication and family adventure. With its distinctive styling and luxurious appointments, the Country Cruiser was more than just a mode of transportation; it was a statement of mid-century modernity. A notable moment in its history includes its role as a pace car for various stock car races, showcasing its blend of performance and prestige.

Design and Innovation

With sweeping lines and a bold front grille that commanded attention, the exterior of the 1960 Mercury Country Cruiser was an embodiment of design confidence. The vehicle featured a hardtop styling with no B-pillars, which created an open-air feeling when windows were down—a feature that was quite innovative at the time. Inside, passengers were greeted with an interior that exuded luxury, from plush seating upholstered in premium materials to the wood-grain accents that adorned the dashboard and door panels. Technologically, it boasted advanced features such as an optional power rear window that could be lowered for easy access to the cargo area.

Color options ranged from elegant to extravagant, with hues like "Sultana White" and "Persian Gold Metallic" being popular choices among buyers. The Country Cruiser was available in several body styles, but it was the nine-passenger variant with rear-facing third-row seating that became iconic for its practicality and comfort.

Historical Significance

The 1960 Mercury Country Cruiser's impact on automotive design was significant, as it helped solidify the station wagon's place as a desirable family vehicle rather than just a utilitarian workhorse. Its blend of luxury features with practicality set a new standard for what a family car could be. This model stood apart from its contemporaries by offering a more upscale experience without compromising on space or versatility.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its stylish exterior, the Country Cruiser was no slouch in performance. Equipped with powerful engine options like the 383 cubic inch Marauder V8, it could achieve respectable acceleration figures for its size, with 0-60 mph times that could surprise many sedans of its day. The ride quality was smooth, absorbing bumps with ease thanks to its robust suspension system. Drivers often praised the Country Cruiser for its quiet cabin and effortless cruising capabilities on long journeys.

Ownership Experience

The 1960 Mercury Country Cruiser found its niche both as an upscale daily driver for affluent families and as a showpiece in classic car exhibitions. Maintenance is typical for vehicles of this era—straightforward mechanical systems allow for easier DIY repairs compared to modern cars but finding parts can be challenging due to scarcity. Reliability is generally good when properly maintained.

Fun Facts

This classic wagon has seen its share of limelight with rare editions that featured unique trim packages or engines. While not known for breaking speed records, it has held its own in endurance tests and cross-country trips popular at the time. Celebrity ownerships have occasionally surfaced, adding to its allure. Criticisms were few but often pointed towards its fuel consumption—a common trait among large-displacement engines of that period.

Collector's Information

The current value range for a well-preserved 1960 Mercury Country Cruiser can vary widely based on condition, originality, and provenance. With production numbers not as high as some of its competitors', it's estimated that fewer than 10,000 units were produced across all configurations making it relatively rare today. As interest in classic station wagons grows, prices have been appreciating steadily; well-restored examples can fetch anywhere from $20,000 to over $50,000 depending on various factors.

Conclusion

The 1960 Mercury Country Cruiser is more than just a vintage vehicle—it's a rolling piece of Americana that captures the spirit of an era where cars were designed with passion and purpose. Whether you're a collector or an enthusiast drawn to the allure of classic wagons, this Mercury remains an enduring symbol of style and substance.

1960 Mercury Country Cruiser 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

1960 Mercury Country Cruiser Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D., 1-7/16" high-BN 3Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D., 1-7/16" high., with 5/8" I.D. Each

1960 Mercury Country Cruiser Stabilizer Bar Bushings-BN 32-DStabilizer Bar Bushings. 1-9/16" long X 1-1/2" wide X 1-5/8" high, 15/16" I.D. Pair

1960 Mercury Country Cruiser Hood Bumper. Made with steel core. Held by screw. Each-HF 40Hood Bumper. Made with steel core. Held by screw. Each

1960 Mercury Country Cruiser Generator Boot. Replaces OEM #C1AZ10170B-RP 2-FGenerator Boot. Replaces OEM #C1AZ10170B. Note: Notch may have to be cut by purchaser. Each

1960 Mercury Country Cruiser

1960 Mercury Country Cruiser Brake Booster Boot. Each-RP 32-AABrake Booster Boot. Each

1960 Mercury Country Cruiser Hood Bumper. Snap-in wire base like original. Each-SB 89-AHood Bumper. Snap-in wire base like original. Each

1960 Mercury Country Cruiser 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.