Image of 1957 Mercury Turnpike Cruiser, sourced from www.volocars.com , Image Link.

Introduction

The 1957 Mercury Turnpike Cruiser stands as a testament to an era of audacious automotive ambition and American opulence. Born from the innovative minds at Mercury, a division of the Ford Motor Company, this vehicle emerged as a luxury liner on wheels, encapsulating the spirit of the post-war boom. With its distinctive styling and advanced features, the Turnpike Cruiser was more than just a car; it was a symbol of progress and futuristic design. A notable moment in its history was its selection as the pace car for the Indianapolis 500 in 1957, cementing its place in automotive lore.

Design and Innovation

The exterior of the Turnpike Cruiser exudes a sense of forward-thinking elegance with its sweeping lines and jet-age inspiration. The car featured a bold front grille flanked by dual headlamps and an integrated bumper, creating an imposing presence on the road. The rear fins and taillights were designed to mimic the look of jet engines, further emphasizing the era's fascination with aviation. Inside, passengers were treated to high-quality materials and a spacious cabin that prioritized comfort and luxury. Notable technological advancements included a power rear window that could be lowered to improve ventilation and "Seat-O-Matic" memory power seats.

Color options ranged from classic whites and blacks to more vibrant shades that captured the exuberance of the 1950s. Among these, colors like 'Sun Glitter' and 'Persian Pink' often turned heads. The Turnpike Cruiser was available in several body styles, with the two-door hardtop coupe being particularly iconic.

Historical Significance

The Mercury Turnpike Cruiser's impact on automotive design was profound. It introduced features that were ahead of their time, such as an average speed computer and a "Breezeway" power rear window. These innovations set it apart from contemporaries and influenced future automotive designs. Its unique blend of luxury, style, and technology made it an emblem of its age.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its stylish exterior, the Turnpike Cruiser was powered by a robust 368 cubic inch V8 engine that delivered impressive performance for its time. With an output of around 290 horsepower, it could reach top speeds that competed with other luxury cars of its era. Acceleration from 0-60 mph was achieved in under 10 seconds—a respectable figure for such a substantial vehicle. Handling-wise, it offered a smooth ride typical of luxury cruisers from the '50s, absorbing bumps with grace while remaining relatively composed on windy roads. The engine's purr was a symphony to enthusiasts' ears, adding to the overall driving experience.

Ownership Experience

The Turnpike Cruiser found its niche among those seeking a blend of prestige and performance in their daily drive or as a weekend showpiece. Maintenance is characteristic of vehicles from this period—requiring some mechanical knowledge but generally manageable due to simpler technology compared to modern cars. Reliability is decent with proper care, though parts may be scarce due to rarity.

Fun Facts

A little-known trivia about the Turnpike Cruiser is that it featured one of the earliest forms of cruise control—a novelty at the time. While not many celebrities were known to own one, its pace car role at Indy 500 added some star quality. Criticisms often focused on its size and fuel consumption—common issues for vehicles in this class during that period.

Collector's Information

Today, collectors cherish the 1957 Mercury Turnpike Cruiser for its uniqueness and historical value. Production numbers were relatively low compared to mainstream models, with estimates suggesting only several thousand units were produced. As for value range, pristine examples can fetch anywhere from $30,000 to over $60,000 depending on provenance and condition—reflecting an appreciation trend among classic car enthusiasts.

Conclusion

The 1957 Mercury Turnpike Cruiser remains an iconic piece of American automotive history—a shining example of innovation meeting luxury during an age when cars were more than just transportation; they were statements. As we look back on this remarkable machine's legacy, we can't help but appreciate how it paved the way for future advancements while capturing the imagination of a generation.

1957 Mercury Turnpike Cruiser Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D-BN 11Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D., 3/4" high, with 5/8" I.D. Each

1957 Mercury Turnpike 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

1957 Mercury Turnpike Cruiser 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

1957 Mercury Turnpike Cruiser 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

1957 Mercury Turnpike Cruiser Hood Bumper. Each-HF 1Hood Bumper. Each

1957 Mercury Turnpike Cruiser 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

1957 Mercury Turnpike Cruiser Trunk Seal. Each-TK 42-18Trunk Seal. Each

1957 Mercury Turnpike 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.