The 1951 Mercury is somewhat of an iconic automobile. This postwar shape was introduced in 1949 and had a run of three years.
It was a body style that proved very popular with customizers who were particularly found of chopping the roof – so popular that it’s always refreshing to see one that hasn’t been messed with. In fact this car still wears its original paint.
1951 saw just a few changes such as a new grille, vertical taillights (replacing the horizontal ones from the previous two years) and some trim changes before a complete restyle for 1952. It was the last year for split windshields and suicide doors on the 4-door models too.
![rear view of a 51 Mercury Monterey Coupe](https://www.carsandstripes.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/1951-mercury-monterey-rear.jpg)
Inside, the interior design is very striking and that dash is such a lovely piece that is a joy to look at. In fact this interior is also believed to be original.
![stylish interior of a 1951 Mercury](https://www.carsandstripes.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/1951-mercury-interior.jpg)
Note that this car also has an original radio installed. Something that would have cost the original owner a further $84 on the purchase price.
Power comes from a 255.4 cubic inch V8 with 2-barrel carburetor producing 112 horsepower. This one is a very tidy example.
![](https://www.carsandstripes.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/1951-mercury-engine.jpg)
The ’51 Mercury was 206.8″ long with a wheelbase of 118″ and was 76.9″.
Primary competition would have come from cars like the Buick Special, Dodge Meadowbrook, Pontiac Chieftain Deluxe and Studebaker Commander among a few others.
Mercury sold 142,168 coupes (spread over 2 models – the Monterey and Sport Coupe) for the 1951 model year with a base price of $2,116. If you wanted a heater they were extra too, at a cost of $64.
This ’51 Mercury Monterey is currently for sale on eBay. (follow the link for lots more photos)
Beautiful Car!! I bought one right after I got out of the army in 1958. It was the first automatic transmission I owned. (Merc-o-matic ) I sure loved that car.