Image of 1968 Mercury Commuter, sourced from www.dakkadakka.com , Image Link.

Unveiling the 1968 Mercury Commuter: A Station Wagon with Panache

The year 1968 saw the release of a station wagon that would become a cherished classic for enthusiasts and collectors alike—the Mercury Commuter. Crafted by the Mercury division of the Ford Motor Company, this vehicle emerged during an era where practicality met style on four wheels. The Commuter was designed to offer families the comfort and space of a traditional wagon, with a touch of elegance that was a cut above the rest. A notable moment in its history is its role as a bridge between utilitarian family transport and the burgeoning muscle car movement, offering a glimpse into the evolving American automotive landscape.

Design and Innovation

The exterior of the 1968 Mercury Commuter was a testament to late 60s styling, with clean lines and a long, sweeping silhouette that exuded motion even at a standstill. Its bold front grille and stacked headlights were hallmarks of Mercury's design language, while the subtle use of chrome accents provided an air of sophistication. Inside, passengers were greeted with a spacious cabin adorned with durable materials designed to withstand the rigors of family life. Technological features for its time included power steering and brakes, as well as optional air conditioning—a luxury in those days. The color palette ranged from subdued to vibrant, with "Calypso Coral" and "Madras Blue" being among the popular choices that added character to this classic wagon.

Historical Significance

The 1968 Mercury Commuter stood out for its blend of functionality and style, setting it apart from more utilitarian offerings on the market. Its design cues would influence station wagons for years to come, proving that practical vehicles could also be aesthetically pleasing. The Commuter's legacy is seen in how it paved the way for future generations of family vehicles that didn't sacrifice form for function.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its stylish exterior, the Commuter was no slouch in performance. Equipped with a range of powerplants including V8 options, it delivered ample power for its class. While top speed and acceleration figures were modest by today's standards, for its time, it offered respectable performance with 0-60 mph times that could surprise many sedans of its era. Handling was typical for large wagons—stable on straightaways but requiring care on tighter curves. Drivers often praised the smooth ride quality and the throaty rumble of the V8 engine that provided an engaging driving experience.

Ownership Experience

The 1968 Mercury Commuter served various roles from daily driver to weekend show car. Its robust construction meant reliability was one of its strong suits, making maintenance straightforward for the average owner. Parts were readily available thanks to shared components with other Ford models, easing repair concerns.

Fun Facts

Among enthusiasts, there are tales of rare editions outfitted with high-performance engines typically reserved for muscle cars. While celebrity ownerships are less documented, this wagon's charm undoubtedly attracted various high-profile individuals. The Commuter also made appearances in films and television shows of its time, further cementing its place in popular culture.

Collector's Information

Today, the value range for a well-preserved 1968 Mercury Commuter can vary widely based on condition and originality. Estimates suggest that these wagons are moderately rare due to their utilitarian nature leading to many being used extensively and not preserved as collectibles. As such, finding one in excellent condition can be challenging. Price trends have shown appreciation over time as nostalgia for this era's vehicles grows stronger—values can range significantly from mid-four figures for a project car to upwards of five figures for pristine examples.

Conclusion

The 1968 Mercury Commuter encapsulates an era where practicality did not exclude elegance or performance. It stands as a testament to an age where station wagons were more than just family haulers—they were statements of style and versatility. For those who appreciate classic American automotive history, the Mercury Commuter remains an endearing icon worth preserving.

1968 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

1968 Mercury Commuter Brake Master Cylinder Cover Seal. Replaces OEM #5470861-RP 2-CBrake Master Cylinder Cover Seal. Replaces OEM #5470861. 5-9/16" long, 2-5/8" wide. Each

1968 Mercury Commuter Brake Booster Boot. Each-RP 32-AABrake Booster Boot. Each

1968 Mercury Commuter Trunk Seal. 18 feet long. Each-TK 51-18Trunk Seal. 18 feet long. Each

1968 Mercury Commuter Windshield Reveal Molding Clip. Made of steel. Each-WF 228-AWindshield Reveal Molding Clip. Made of steel. Each