Image of 1963 Mercury Colony Park, sourced from en.m.wikipedia.org , Image Link.

Introduction

The 1963 Mercury Colony Park stands as a testament to American automotive luxury and versatility during an era when wagons ruled the suburban landscape. Born from the esteemed Mercury division of the Ford Motor Company, this full-size station wagon not only offered practicality but also exuded a certain elegance that was hard to find in its segment. At a time when space race optimism influenced design and technology, the Colony Park showcased innovation and style. A notable moment in its history includes being the choice for families seeking both prestige and utility, a precursor to today's luxury SUVs.

Design and Innovation

With its sleek lines and eye-catching 'wood' paneling on the sides, the 1963 Mercury Colony Park was designed to turn heads. The vehicle's exterior styling was characterized by a bold grille and sophisticated trim that extended from the front fenders to the rear, culminating in a set of distinctive tail lights. Inside, occupants were greeted with a spacious cabin adorned with premium materials, including plush seating and polished accents. Technological features of the time included power-operated rear windows and tailgate for easy access. Color options ranged from classic black and white to more adventurous hues like Peacock Blue, with Sultana White being a popular choice. The most iconic body style was the four-door wagon with three rows of seating, accommodating up to nine passengers.

Historical Significance

The 1963 Mercury Colony Park's impact on automotive design was significant, as it blended luxury with functionality in a way few other wagons did. Its use of simulated woodgrain side panels became an iconic feature that would be associated with premium wagons for years to come. This model set itself apart from contemporaries by offering a higher level of refinement and sophistication, influencing future designs in the station wagon category.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its refined exterior, the Colony Park boasted impressive performance for its class. Equipped with a robust V8 engine, it delivered smooth acceleration with enough power to handle fully loaded road trips. While top speed data is scarce, it was more about leisurely cruising than racing down highways. Handling was as expected for a large wagon; it absorbed bumps commendably while providing a comfortable ride. The driving experience was characterized by the V8's burble, a sense of solidity on the road, and an ease of operation that made long drives enjoyable.

Ownership Experience

The 1963 Mercury Colony Park served various roles from a daily driver for large families to an esteemed show car admired by classic enthusiasts. Maintenance was typical for vehicles of its time, with parts being relatively easy to source due to its shared underpinnings with other Ford products. Reliability was considered good for its era, though modern standards are significantly higher.

Fun Facts

This classic wagon has had its share of limelight with rare editions like those equipped with 'Marauder' V8 engines or special trim packages enhancing its collectibility. While not known for breaking speed records, it certainly held records in the hearts of those who cherished family road trips. Criticisms often centered around fuel efficiency—a common trait for vehicles of its size during that period.

Collector's Information

In today's market, a well-preserved 1963 Mercury Colony Park can fetch anywhere from mid-five figures depending on condition and provenance—reflecting an appreciation in value as collectors seek out unique pieces of automotive history. Production numbers were not as high as more mainstream models making surviving examples relatively rare finds.

Conclusion

The 1963 Mercury Colony Park is more than just a vintage wagon; it's a symbol of American luxury and family life during the early '60s. Its blend of elegance, practicality, and comfort has cemented its place in automotive history as an icon among station wagons. For those who appreciate classic design coupled with functionality, this Mercury remains an alluring piece of nostalgia that continues to captivate collectors and enthusiasts alike.

1963 Mercury Colony Park Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D-BN 11Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D., 3/4" high, with 5/8" I.D. Each

1963 Mercury Colony Park 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

1963 Mercury Colony Park 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

1963 Mercury Colony Park Hood Bumper. Made with steel core. Held by screw. Each-HF 40Hood Bumper. Made with steel core. Held by screw. Each

1963 Mercury Colony Park Generator Boot. Replaces OEM #C1AZ10170B-RP 2-FGenerator Boot. Replaces OEM #C1AZ10170B. Note: Notch may have to be cut by purchaser. Each

1963 Mercury Colony Park

1963 Mercury Colony Park Door Lock Knob. Black Rubber. Each-RP 306Door Lock Knob. Black Rubber. Each

1963 Mercury Colony Park 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

1963 Mercury Colony Park 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

1963 Mercury Colony Park 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

1963 Mercury Colony Park 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

1963 Mercury Colony Park Brake Booster Boot. Each-RP 32-AABrake Booster Boot. Each

1963 Mercury Colony Park Hood Bumper. Snap-in wire base like original. Each-SB 89-AHood Bumper. Snap-in wire base like original. Each

1963 Mercury Colony Park Vertical Vent Seals-VS 6-DVertical Vent Seals. Fits 2 & 4 door sedans and station wagons. Pair

1963 Mercury Colony Park Flexible Sweeper. Made of rubber-WC 23-/FTFlexible Sweeper. Made of rubber. Seal for outside of side window. Sold by the foot

1963 Mercury Colony Park Flexible Sweeper. Made of rubber-WC 23-48Flexible Sweeper. Made of rubber. Seal for outside of side window. 48" Piece. Each

1963 Mercury Colony Park Flexible Sweeper. Made of rubber-WC 23-96Flexible Sweeper. Made of rubber. Seal for outside of side window. 96" Piece. each

1963 Mercury Colony Park Vent Window Seals-WR 3363Vent Window Seals. Fits 2 & 4 door sedans and station wagons. Pair