1968 Mercury Cougar XR-7 GT-E
- 1 of 256 GT-E's Produced
- 1 of 134 in Cardinal Red
- 1 of 37 Made with a Cobra Jet Motor
- Only 1 of 9 Known To Still Exist Today!
- Same Owner For 37 Years
- 428ci (7.0L) 335hp 4bbl Cobra Jet V8
- C6 Automatic Transmission
- Cardinal Red over Black Interior
- 71k Miles Shown
VIN Decoder:
8 - Year: 1968
F - Assembly Plant: Dearborn, MI
93 - Body Style: XR-7 Hardtop
R - Engine Code: 428 Cobra Jet
570003 - Production Sequence
Data Tag Decoder:
65B - Body: XR-7 Hardtop
T - Color: Cardinal Red
6A - Trim: Charcoal Black Levant Leather & Charcoal Black Natural Leather
06F - Date: June 1968
34 - District Sales Office (DSO): Detroit
H - Axle: 3.89
U - Transmission: C-6 Automatic
The 1968 Mercury Cougar XR-7 GT-E is a rare and significant piece of American automotive history, representing one of the most exclusive muscle cars of its era. Only 256 GT-E models were ever produced, and this particular car is one of just 134 finished in the striking Cardinal Red color. Even more impressively, it's one of only 37 GT-Es equipped with the powerful 428ci Cobra Jet engine, a feature that makes it a true collector's gem. With only nine of these Cobra Jet-equipped Cougars known to exist today, this car is a standout in any collection.
Under the hood, this Cougar XR-7 GT-E houses the legendary 428 cubic inch Cobra Jet V8 engine, rated at 335 horsepower. This engine was one of the most potent powerplants offered by Mercury at the time, providing exhilarating performance that placed the Cougar firmly in the muscle car territory. The engine is mated to a C6 automatic transmission, known for its durability and smooth shifting, ensuring that the power is delivered efficiently to the rear wheels.
The exterior of this Cougar XR-7 GT-E is finished in a vibrant Cardinal Red, a color that not only enhances its muscular lines but also highlights its rarity. The black interior provides a striking contrast, creating a classic and aggressive look that was highly sought after in the late 1960s. The XR-7 package added a touch of luxury to the Cougar, with features such as wood-grain interior accents, leather-trimmed seats, and a unique dashboard design that set it apart from the standard models.
This particular Cougar XR-7 GT-E has been meticulously maintained, with a single owner for the past 37 years. Such long-term ownership is a testament to the care and dedication that has been invested in preserving this rare muscle car. With 71,000 miles shown on the odometer, the car has been driven sparingly, ensuring that it remains in excellent condition both mechanically and cosmetically.
The GT-E package was a special offering from Mercury, designed to give the Cougar a more aggressive stance and enhanced performance capabilities. In addition to the powerful Cobra Jet engine, the GT-E models featured a unique grille design, hidden headlamps, and dual exhausts with chrome tips. These distinctive features, combined with the rarity of the GT-E package, make this Cougar a highly desirable collector's item.
In conclusion, the 1968 Mercury Cougar XR-7 GT-E is not just a car; it's a piece of automotive history. With its rarity, powerful Cobra Jet engine, and striking color combination, it represents the pinnacle of Mercury's performance offerings in the late 1960s. Whether as a showpiece or a treasured part of a private collection, this Cougar stands as a testament to the golden age of American muscle cars.
