Mercury Cougar

vs

Mercury Turnpike Cruiser

USA vs USA — 1967 vs 1957

Mercury Cougar (1967)
Mercury Turnpike Cruiser (1957)
Specifications
Cougar XR-7 GT-E 427Turnpike Cruiser Convertible
Horsepower390 hp290 hp
Torque440 lb-ft390 lb-ft
Engine Size6,997 cc6,030 cc
0-60 mph5.9 sec10.5 sec
Top Speed135 mph115 mph
¼ Mile13.8 sec17.5 sec
Weight3,400 lbs4,250 lbs
Wheelbase2,819 mm3,124 mm
Length4,887 mm5,512 mm
Units Produced39416,861
Original MSRP$4,050$3,758
Value (Excellent)$200,000$120,000
Collectibility9/108/10
Rarity9/107/10
The Verdict

On balance, the 1967 Mercury Cougar XR-7 GT-E 427 makes a stronger case on paper with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. However, the 1957 Mercury Turnpike Cruiser Convertible counters with better value, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1967 Mercury Cougar XR-7 GT-E 427 for outright capability, or the 1957 Mercury Turnpike Cruiser Convertible for a more distinctive ownership experience.

Overview

Mercury has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1967 Mercury Cougar XR-7 GT-E 427 with the 1957 Mercury Turnpike Cruiser Convertible highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1967 Mercury Cougar XR-7 GT-E 427 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 390 hp compared to 290 hp, a 100-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1967 Mercury Cougar XR-7 GT-E 427 edges ahead at 5.9 seconds versus 10.5 seconds. The Mercury Cougar carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 850 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 394 units built, the 1967 Mercury Cougar XR-7 GT-E 427 is considerably scarcer than the Mercury Turnpike Cruiser's 16,861 examples. On the collector market, the 1967 Mercury Cougar XR-7 GT-E 427 commands a significant premium over the 1957 Mercury Turnpike Cruiser Convertible, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.