Pick of the Day: 1962 Mercury Comet wagon with 2 doors and ‘wood’ trim

The Pick of the Day is an unusual 1962 Mercury Comet 2-door wagon with “wood” paneling from stem to stern and standing on a set of 17-inch custom wheels, a good look for what was once a family transport.

Two-door Comet wagons are not nearly as plentiful as the more-practical 4-door versions; just over 2,000 2 doors were produced for 1962, compared with more than 16,000 4-door wagons sold.

But for today’s collectors, not as interested in practicality as eye appeal, two fewer doors are definitely more desirable.  As for the Comet’s period-appropriate woodgrain trim, that’s a matter of taste. I think it looks distinctive.

“This vehicle has been restored over time to its current state as something that’s good to drive or show in its Hunter Green exterior paintjob with faux wood panels,” according to the Phoenix dealer advertising the Comet in ClassicCars.com. “Tinted windows keep everyone comfortable on hot summer days and your belongings protected from peeking Toms – there’s even the signature roll-down rear window.”

We have had a rash of Comets appearing as late on ClassicCars.com, no doubt because of their appeal as the upmarket version of the Ford Falcon.  This wagon retains much of its factory style and stock 6-cylinder drivetrain, with some upgrades and custom touches. 

“Under the hood is a gas-saving 200cid inline 6-cylinder engine that does give enough power to get this car down the road with purpose, and the 3-speed automatic transmission was rebuilt around 1,100 miles ago,” the seller says. “You’ll like the sound of this wagon thanks to exhaust headers feeding dual exiting pipes.”

The Comet’s tan-vinyl interior with bucket seats, center console, Grant steering wheel and custom B&M shifter looks to be in good driver condition.

“The factory look is somewhat maintained by the gauge cluster, but there are some aftermarket dials for water temperature, oil pressure and voltage,” the seller notes. “A retro-modern stereo has been added so you can enjoy your favorite tunes.”

This Comet would be a fun road-trip transport, with loads of room for gear, or as a cruise-in entry that likely would be the only one in sight.

The asking price is $19,000.  To view this vehicle on ClassicCars.com, see Pick of the Day