Reserve Removed: 1940 Mercury Eight Custom Convertible

This 1940 Mercury Eight convertible received a nut-and-bolt restoration under prior ownership and is fitted with an overhauled drivetrain, refinished surfaces and brightwork, and a custom pleated leather interior. Power comes from a 350ci small-block Chevrolet V8 with an aluminum radiator and stainless-steel exhaust system, which sends power to the posi-traction rear end by way of a 700R4 4-speed automatic transmission. Finished in a shade of red offered by Cadillac, this first-generation Mercury Eight is offered with build documentation and on a clear Hawaii title in the seller’s name.

The Mercury Eight was launched in 1939 as a mid-range full-size offering between the lesser Ford Deluxe and the luxury Lincoln marque. This second-year example is said to have been professionally restored under prior ownership. Paint is described as Cadillac Inferno metallic red, the glass was replaced, a replacement Hartz cloth convertible top was installed, and brightwork was refinished. The sale includes a convertible top tonneau cover.

Colorado Custom six-spoke polished aluminum wheels measure 17” in the front and 20” in the rear, and wear Kumho Ecsta tires. Suspension underpinnings come from a Mustang II, and a Unisteer powered rack and pinion steering system has been added. Stopping power comes from power disc brakes with drilled and slotted rotors, and running gear has been powder-coated.

The interior is fitted with pleated light beige leather bench seats with matching door panels and replacement carpeting which is protected by floor mats. The dash is color-matched to the exterior and features metal trim extending across the instrument panel to the passenger side. Items of note include a tilting steering column, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, air conditioning by Vintage Air, a power-operated driver seat, power windows, and a modern Pioneer stereo system with a 10-disc CD changer in the trunk. The trunk is fully finished as well and wears beige carpeting with vinyl side trim.

Instrumentation comes in the form of a horizontal 110-mph speedometer and an array of Detroit Speed gauges mounted behind the original bezels, which inform the driver of the fuel level, oil pressure, voltage, and coolant temperature. The five-digit mechanical odometer displays 90k miles, but total chassis mileage is unknown.

The 350ci small-block Chevrolet V8 is reported to have been built by Street Performance and dressed with chrome and polished aluminum accessories. Upgrades to the power plant include an aluminum radiator, performance headers, a March Performance serpentine belt kit, and a stainless-steel dual exhaust system. A 700R4 4-speed automatic sends power to the posi-traction rear end.

Photos showing the underside are available for viewing in the carousel, showing the powder-coated frame and underpinnings.

The sale includes build documentation and the convertible top tonneau cover.