The 1939 Mercury is a mid-size car manufactured by the Mercury division of Ford Motor Company. It was introduced in 1938 and produced through 1940. The 1939 Mercury was available in two body styles: a two-door coupe and a four-door sedan. It was powered by a 239-cubic-inch flathead V8 engine that produced 95 horsepower. The 1939 Mercury was a popular car, with over 160,000 units produced.
The 1939 Mercury was significant for several reasons. First, it was the first Mercury to be offered with a V8 engine. Second, it was the first Mercury to be offered with a four-door sedan body style. Third, the 1939 Mercury was one of the first cars to be offered with a factory-installed radio.
The 1939 Mercury is a collectible car today. It is prized by collectors for its unique styling and its historical significance.
1939 Mercury
The 1939 Mercury is a significant car in automotive history. It was the first Mercury to be offered with a V8 engine, the first Mercury to be offered with a four-door sedan body style, and one of the first cars to be offered with a factory-installed radio. These key aspects make the 1939 Mercury a collectible car today.
- V8 engine
- Four-door sedan body style
- Factory-installed radio
- Mid-size car
- Manufactured by Ford Motor Company
- Over 160,000 units produced
- Unique styling
- Historical significance
The 1939 Mercury was a popular car in its day, and it remains a popular collector car today. Its unique styling and historical significance make it a valuable addition to any car collection.
V8 engine
The 1939 Mercury was the first Mercury to be offered with a V8 engine. V8 engines are a type of internal combustion engine with eight cylinders arranged in a V shape. They are known for their power and efficiency, and they are commonly used in high-performance cars and trucks.
- Power: V8 engines are more powerful than inline-four and inline-six engines because they have more cylinders. This makes them ideal for use in cars and trucks that need to tow heavy loads or accelerate quickly.
- Efficiency: V8 engines are more efficient than inline-four and inline-six engines because they have a shorter crankshaft. This reduces friction and improves fuel economy.
- Durability: V8 engines are more durable than inline-four and inline-six engines because they have a more rigid construction. This makes them less likely to fail under stress.
- Sound: V8 engines have a unique sound that is often described as being “rumbly” or “throaty”. This sound is caused by the firing order of the engine.
The V8 engine was a major factor in the success of the 1939 Mercury. It gave the car the power and performance that buyers were looking for, and it helped to establish Mercury as a leader in the automotive industry.
Four-door sedan body style
The 1939 Mercury was the first Mercury to be offered with a four-door sedan body style. This was a significant change for Mercury, as it had previously only offered two-door coupes. The four-door sedan body style was more popular with families, as it provided more space and comfort for passengers.
- Increased passenger capacity: Four-door sedans can accommodate up to five passengers, making them ideal for families or groups of friends. This was a major advantage over two-door coupes, which can only accommodate up to four passengers.
- More convenient access: Four-door sedans have four doors, which makes it easier to enter and exit the vehicle. This is especially beneficial for families with small children or for people who have difficulty getting in and out of cars.
- Improved safety: Four-door sedans have a more rigid roof structure than two-door coupes, which makes them safer in the event of a rollover accident. This is an important consideration for families with young children.
- More storage space: Four-door sedans have a larger trunk than two-door coupes, which makes them ideal for families who need to transport a lot of cargo.
The four-door sedan body style was a major factor in the success of the 1939 Mercury. It gave the car the space and comfort that families were looking for, and it helped to establish Mercury as a leader in the family car market.
Factory-installed radio
The 1939 Mercury was one of the first cars to be offered with a factory-installed radio. This was a significant development, as it made it possible for drivers and passengers to enjoy music and news while on the road. Prior to this, car radios were aftermarket accessories that were installed by third-party companies.
- Convenience: Factory-installed radios were much more convenient than aftermarket radios. They were installed at the factory, so there was no need to take the car to a third-party installer. This saved time and money.
- Integration: Factory-installed radios were also better integrated with the car’s electrical system. This meant that they were less likely to cause problems, such as electrical shorts.
- Sound quality: Factory-installed radios were typically of higher quality than aftermarket radios. This was because they were designed specifically for the car’s acoustics.
- Style: Factory-installed radios were also more stylish than aftermarket radios. They were designed to complement the car’s interior, and they often featured unique styling cues.
The factory-installed radio was a major factor in the success of the 1939 Mercury. It gave the car a competitive edge over other cars on the market, and it helped to establish Mercury as a leader in the automotive industry.
Mid-size car
A mid-size car is a passenger car that is larger than a compact car but smaller than a full-size car. Mid-size cars are typically four-door sedans or five-door station wagons. They are popular with families and other consumers who need a car that is both spacious and fuel-efficient.
- Size and Space: Mid-size cars are larger than compact cars, giving occupants more room to stretch out and be comfortable. They also have larger trunks, which can accommodate more luggage or cargo.
- Fuel Efficiency: Mid-size cars are more fuel-efficient than full-size cars. This is because they are lighter and have smaller engines.
- Affordability: Mid-size cars are more affordable than full-size cars. This makes them a good option for consumers who are on a budget.
- Versatility: Mid-size cars are versatile vehicles that can be used for a variety of purposes. They are good for families, commuters, and road trippers alike.
The 1939 Mercury is a mid-size car. It is a four-door sedan that is powered by a V8 engine. The 1939 Mercury is a popular collector car today. It is prized by collectors for its unique styling and its historical significance.
Manufactured by Ford Motor Company
The 1939 Mercury is a mid-size car that was manufactured by the Ford Motor Company. Ford Motor Company is an American multinational automaker that is headquartered in Dearborn, Michigan. The company was founded by Henry Ford in 1903. Ford Motor Company is one of the largest automakers in the world and is known for its popular brands, such as Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury.
The 1939 Mercury was a significant car for Ford Motor Company. It was the first Mercury to be offered with a V8 engine, the first Mercury to be offered with a four-door sedan body style, and one of the first cars to be offered with a factory-installed radio. These key aspects made the 1939 Mercury a popular car with consumers.
The 1939 Mercury is a collectible car today. It is prized by collectors for its unique styling and its historical significance. The 1939 Mercury is a reminder of the important role that Ford Motor Company has played in the automotive industry.
Over 160,000 units produced
The 1939 Mercury was a popular car, with over 160,000 units produced. This high production number is significant for several reasons.
- Popularity: The high production number indicates that the 1939 Mercury was a popular car with consumers. This popularity was likely due to its stylish design, powerful V8 engine, and affordable price.
- Market share: The high production number also indicates that the 1939 Mercury had a significant market share. This market share was likely due to the car’s strong sales in both the United States and Canada.
- Economic impact: The high production number of the 1939 Mercury had a positive impact on the economy. The car’s production created jobs and stimulated economic growth.
- Legacy: The high production number of the 1939 Mercury ensures that the car will continue to be a popular collector car for many years to come.
In conclusion, the high production number of the 1939 Mercury is a testament to the car’s popularity, market share, economic impact, and legacy.
Unique styling
The 1939 Mercury is renowned for its unique styling, which set it apart from other cars of its era. The car’s design was influenced by Art Deco and Streamline Moderne, two popular design styles of the 1930s. The 1939 Mercury featured a sleek and streamlined body with a long hood, sloping roofline, and prominent grille.
The 1939 Mercury’s unique styling was a major factor in its popularity. The car’s stylish design appealed to consumers who were looking for a car that was both fashionable and functional. The 1939 Mercury’s unique styling also helped to establish Mercury as a leader in the automotive industry.
Today, the 1939 Mercury is still admired for its unique styling. The car is a popular collector car, and it is often featured in car shows and museums. The 1939 Mercury’s unique styling is a reminder of the important role that design plays in the automotive industry.
Historical significance
The 1939 Mercury is a historically significant car for several reasons. First, it was the first Mercury to be offered with a V8 engine. This made it one of the most powerful cars on the market at the time. Second, the 1939 Mercury was the first Mercury to be offered with a four-door sedan body style. This made it more appealing to families and other consumers who needed a car with more space. Third, the 1939 Mercury was one of the first cars to be offered with a factory-installed radio. This made it possible for drivers and passengers to enjoy music and news while on the road.
The 1939 Mercury’s historical significance is also due to its role in the automotive industry. The car’s popularity helped to establish Mercury as a leading automaker. The 1939 Mercury also helped to popularize the V8 engine and the four-door sedan body style. These innovations had a major impact on the automotive industry and helped to shape the cars that we drive today.
Today, the 1939 Mercury is a popular collector car. It is prized by collectors for its unique styling, its historical significance, and its performance. The 1939 Mercury is a reminder of the important role that Ford Motor Company has played in the automotive industry.
FAQs about 1939 Mercury
This section addresses frequently asked questions about the 1939 Mercury, providing concise and informative answers to common concerns or misconceptions.
Question 1: What engine does the 1939 Mercury have?
The 1939 Mercury is equipped with a 239-cubic-inch flathead V8 engine that produces 95 horsepower.
Question 2: What body styles are available for the 1939 Mercury?
The 1939 Mercury is available in two body styles: a two-door coupe and a four-door sedan.
Question 3: What are the dimensions of the 1939 Mercury?
The 1939 Mercury has a wheelbase of 116 inches and an overall length of 196 inches. It is 70 inches wide and 63 inches high.
Question 4: What is the fuel economy of the 1939 Mercury?
The 1939 Mercury has a fuel economy of approximately 15 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway.
Question 5: What are the safety features of the 1939 Mercury?
The 1939 Mercury does not have any modern safety features. However, it does have a sturdy construction and a low center of gravity, which provide some protection in the event of an accident.
Question 6: How much does a 1939 Mercury cost?
The value of a 1939 Mercury varies depending on its condition and features. However, a good condition 1939 Mercury can cost anywhere from $20,000 to $60,000.
These FAQs provide a comprehensive overview of the 1939 Mercury, addressing common questions and concerns. For more information, refer to the main article or consult a reliable automotive source.
Explore the next section to delve deeper into the significance and legacy of the 1939 Mercury.
Tips on 1939 Mercury
Whether you are a seasoned collector or a curious enthusiast, consider these tips to enhance your knowledge and appreciation of the 1939 Mercury:
Tip 1: Research the model’s history and specifications.
Delve into automotive literature, consult online resources, and visit car museums to gain a comprehensive understanding of the 1939 Mercury’s development, design, and technical details. This knowledge will enrich your appreciation for the car’s unique features and place in automotive history.
Tip 2: Attend car shows and events.
Participating in car shows and gatherings provides an exceptional opportunity to witness the 1939 Mercury firsthand. Interact with owners, enthusiasts, and experts to exchange knowledge, admire meticulously restored examples, and gain insights into the car’s legacy and significance.
Tip 3: Join a club or online forum dedicated to the 1939 Mercury.
Connecting with like-minded individuals through clubs and online forums offers a wealth of benefits. Engage in discussions, share experiences, access technical advice, and stay informed about upcoming events and restoration projects related to the 1939 Mercury.
Tip 4: Consider acquiring memorabilia or collectible items.
Enhance your appreciation of the 1939 Mercury by collecting related memorabilia, such as vintage advertisements, promotional materials, or scale models. These items not only provide a tangible connection to the car’s history but also serve as conversation pieces and display items for your collection.
Tip 5: Explore restoration and preservation options.
If you are fortunate enough to own a 1939 Mercury, explore professional restoration services or consult with experienced mechanics to maintain its authenticity and preserve its value. Whether it’s a complete restoration or a meticulous touch-up, preserving the car’s original condition ensures its legacy for future generations.
By following these tips, you can deepen your understanding, appreciation, and enjoyment of the 1939 Mercury. Immerse yourself in its rich history, connect with fellow enthusiasts, and contribute to the preservation of this automotive icon.
Proceed to the conclusion to summarize the significance and lasting impact of the 1939 Mercury.
Conclusion
The 1939 Mercury stands as a testament to the ingenuity and innovation that shaped the automotive landscape of its era. Its groundbreaking design, technological advancements, and lasting popularity cemented its place in automotive history. As a pioneer of the V8 engine and factory-installed radios, the 1939 Mercury paved the way for future innovations and set a high standard for performance and comfort.
Today, the 1939 Mercury continues to captivate collectors and enthusiasts alike, serving as a reminder of the golden age of American car manufacturing. Its unique styling, historical significance, and enduring legacy ensure that the 1939 Mercury remains a timeless classic, inspiring generations to come.