Image of 1964 Mercury Park Lane, sourced from en.wikipedia.org , Image Link.

Introduction

The 1964 Mercury Park Lane emerges as a beacon of American automotive luxury from an era when size and opulence were the benchmarks of success. Born from the ambitious minds at Mercury, a division of the Ford Motor Company, this full-size sedan was crafted to offer a premium driving experience. At a time when America's love affair with the automobile was in full swing, the Park Lane stood out for its blend of performance and elegance. A notable moment in its history was when it introduced the innovative Breezeway design, featuring a retractable rear window that set it apart from anything else on the road.

Design and Innovation

The exterior of the 1964 Mercury Park Lane was a testament to mid-60s styling, with its sharp lines, imposing grille, and sleek profile. The car's design exuded confidence and grace, with chrome accents that highlighted its length and sophistication. Inside, passengers were treated to an array of luxurious touches such as richly upholstered seats and woodgrain trim. The quality of materials used was top-notch for its class, ensuring comfort and durability. Technologically, it boasted advancements like power-operated features and an optional AM/FM radio. Color options ranged from dignified blacks and whites to more vibrant hues like Bittersweet and Peacock Blue, with the latter being particularly popular among enthusiasts. The Park Lane was available in several body styles including a sedan, convertible, and the iconic Breezeway coupe with its distinctive reverse-slanting power rear window.

Historical Significance

The 1964 Mercury Park Lane made its mark by offering luxury at a more accessible price point than some of its competitors. It bridged the gap between Ford's mainstream offerings and the high-end Lincoln models. This approach to luxury democratization had a lasting influence on how manufacturers positioned their products in the market. The Park Lane also helped popularize features like power windows and alternate rear window designs in American cars.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its elegant exterior, the '64 Park Lane was no slouch in performance. Equipped with a standard 390 cubic inch V8 engine, it could reach 0-60 mph in under 10 seconds—a respectable figure for such a sizable vehicle. Top speed was around 120 mph, depending on the specific configuration. On the road, drivers enjoyed a smooth ride courtesy of Mercury's refined suspension system, though handling could be described as more comfort-oriented than sporty. The engine's rumble provided an auditory thrill while cruising down highways or boulevards.

Ownership Experience

The Mercury Park Lane served various roles from being a stylish daily driver to gracing car shows as a cherished classic. Its robust construction meant reliability was generally good for its time, though some components like the transmission might require attention as they age. Maintenance is straightforward for those familiar with classic Fords, making it an appealing choice for enthusiasts looking to own a piece of automotive history without undue hassle.

Fun Facts

Among its quirks and accolades, the Park Lane could boast about having one of the most unique rear windows in automotive history with its Breezeway design. While not necessarily associated with any particular celebrity or record-breaking performance, it has appeared in numerous films and television shows set during the 1960s. Criticisms were few but did include remarks about its fuel consumption—a common trait among vehicles of its size during that era.

Collector's Information

Today, collectors find value in the 1964 Mercury Park Lane for its distinctive style and relative rarity compared to other luxury models of its time. Production numbers were not as high as those for mass-market cars; estimates suggest that tens of thousands were produced across all body styles. As for value range, well-maintained examples can fetch anywhere from $15,000 to over $30,000 depending on condition, originality, and specific model variant—with convertibles often commanding premium prices.

Conclusion

The 1964 Mercury Park Lane stands as a testament to an era where comfort met style on America's roads. It remains an attractive option for collectors seeking both luxury and nostalgia in their classic car experience. As we look back on this period piece of automotive craftsmanship, we're reminded that elegance never goes out of fashion—and neither does a well-made machine.

1964 Mercury Park Lane 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

1964 Mercury Park Lane 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

1964 Mercury Park Lane Hood Bumper. Made with steel core. Held by screw. Each-HF 40Hood Bumper. Made with steel core. Held by screw. Each

1964 Mercury Park Lane Generator Boot. Replaces OEM #C1AZ10170B-RP 2-FGenerator Boot. Replaces OEM #C1AZ10170B. Note: Notch may have to be cut by purchaser. Each

1964 Mercury Park Lane

1964 Mercury Park Lane Door Lock Knob. Black Rubber. Each-RP 306Door Lock Knob. Black Rubber. Each

1964 Mercury Park Lane Door Lock Knob. 1-1/2" high. Made of red rubber. Each-RP 306-ADoor Lock Knob. 1-1/2" high. Made of red rubber. Each

1964 Mercury Park Lane Door Lock Knob. 1-1/2" high. Made of blue rubber. Each-RP 306-BDoor Lock Knob. 1-1/2" high. Made of blue rubber. Each

1964 Mercury Park Lane Door Lock Knob. 1-1/2" high. Made of turquoise rubber-RP 306-CDoor Lock Knob. 1-1/2" high. Made of turquoise rubber. Each

1964 Mercury Park Lane Door Lock Knob. 1-1/2" high. Made of beige rubber. Each-RP 306-DDoor Lock Knob. 1-1/2" high. Made of beige rubber. Each

1964 Mercury Park Lane Brake Booster Boot. Each-RP 32-AABrake Booster Boot. Each

1964 Mercury Park Lane Molded roof-rail seals-RR 3301-AMolded roof-rail seals. Fits '64 Ford Galaxie 500, Mercury Montclair and Park Lane 4-door hardtops. Replaces OEM#'s C4AZ 5751222B/3B. Pair. R&L.

1964 Mercury Park Lane Hood Bumper. Snap-in wire base like original. Each-SB 89-AHood Bumper. Snap-in wire base like original. Each

1964 Mercury Park Lane Vertical Vent Seals-VS 6-DVertical Vent Seals. Fits 2 & 4 door sedans and station wagons. Pair

1964 Mercury Park Lane Flexible Sweeper. Made of rubber-WC 23-/FTFlexible Sweeper. Made of rubber. Seal for outside of side window. Sold by the foot

1964 Mercury Park Lane Flexible Sweeper. Made of rubber-WC 23-48Flexible Sweeper. Made of rubber. Seal for outside of side window. 48" Piece. Each

1964 Mercury Park Lane Flexible Sweeper. Made of rubber-WC 23-96Flexible Sweeper. Made of rubber. Seal for outside of side window. 96" Piece. each

1964 Mercury Park Lane Vent Window Seals-WR 3363Vent Window Seals. Fits 2 & 4 door sedans and station wagons. Pair