1969 Mercury Cougar – A Dearborn-Built Classic With a Muscle Heart

In 1969, the Mercury Cougar continued to carve its niche as the refined sibling to the Mustang, balancing muscle car bravado with a dash of luxury. Offered as part of Ford’s upscale pony car line, the '69 Cougar was marked by subtle yet striking updates—including a revised front grille and taillights, hidden headlights, and available two-tone paint options. With engine offerings ranging from small-block V8s to big-block monsters, the Cougar served a wide range of performance appetites.

This particular Cougar, originally built in Dearborn, Michigan, rolled off the line on February 25, 1969, a full week ahead of schedule. Ordered through the Dallas District Sales Office and delivered to Fortune Lincoln-Mercury in El Paso, Texas, it left the factory dressed in Medium Blue Metallic paint (code PM) with a contrasting White roof, and a Light Blue interior. This combination was selected on just 86 cars that year, adding to its rarity. The original drivetrain was a 351-2V V8 mated to a 3-speed manual transmission with a 2.75 rear axle—a modest performer with plenty of road presence.

Reborn with Windsor Power and Four-on-the-Floor

While the original engine has since been replaced, the Cougar’s heart now beats stronger thanks to a great-running 351 Windsor V8, paired with a 4-speed manual transmission, making it far more engaging to drive than its original configuration. Breathing through exhaust manifolds, dual pipes, and aftermarket mufflers, it delivers a rich tone that’s classic Detroit muscle.

The mechanical upgrades continue with power front disc brakes and power steering, giving it modern drivability while retaining its period-correct feel. The Cougar’s underpinnings, including a 9-inch rear differential, front sway bar, and newer shocks, ensure a confident ride. Though not originally equipped with air conditioning, this “heat-only” car does feature solid fundamentals, with fully functional lights, gauges, and heater.

Classic Looks with Modern Stance

Repainted in its original factory colors, the exterior of this Cougar retains a show-worthy shine. The iconic 15-inch Magnum 500 wheels, wrapped in fresh BFGoodrich Radial T/A tires (235/60 front, 255/60 rear), fill the fenders beautifully and provide an aggressive stance while paying homage to the era.

Inside, the car sports a Light Blue vinyl bucket seat interior (code 1B) with a center console and rim-blow steering wheel—a high-end option in its day. While the original Philco AM radio is currently inoperative, the dashboard and wood trim panels maintain their vintage charm. The vehicle retains manual windows and locks, keeping it delightfully analog.

Notable touches like the Marti Report and original Ford invoice accompany the car, documenting its origins and factory options. Features like tinted glass, the extra cooling package, and wheel lip and rocker moldings further elevate this Cougar’s desirability as a well-optioned build.

Solid Bones and Vintage Personality

According to the dealership's inspection, the car remains very solid underneath, benefiting from factory undercoatingand a generally well-maintained chassis. While age-related wear exists, including minor fluid seepage and cosmetic aging on the trim and weatherstripping, the Cougar continues to perform confidently on the road—described as "drives like a stock Cougar", cruising comfortably at 65 mph.

Even subtle imperfections in the bodywork and interior reinforce its authenticity as a true classic that has been used, enjoyed, and preserved with care.

Preserved by Passion – PC Classic Cars

This 1969 Mercury Cougar, a shining representative of Mercury’s stylish muscle era, has found a new chapter thanks to PC Classic Cars in Sherman, Texas. Known for their unmatched expertise and enthusiasm for vintage vehicles, PC Classic Cars continues to honor the legacy of machines like this Cougar—ensuring that their stories live on with the collectors and enthusiasts who cherish them most.