The 1987 Mercury Cougar XR7 was a luxury sports coupe produced by the Mercury division of Ford Motor Company. It was the third generation of the Cougar XR7, and it was based on the Fox platform. The XR7 was available in two trim levels: base and premium. The base model came with a 5.0-liter V8 engine, while the premium model came with a 5.8-liter V8 engine. Both engines were paired with a four-speed automatic transmission.
The 1987 Mercury Cougar XR7 was a popular car, and it was praised for its performance, handling, and style. It was also a relatively affordable car, which made it a good value for the money. Today, the 1987 Mercury Cougar XR7 is a collector’s item, and it is highly sought-after by car enthusiasts.
The 1987 Mercury Cougar XR7 was an important car for Ford Motor Company. It was the first car to be produced by the company’s new Special Vehicle Operations (SVO) division. SVO was created to develop and produce high-performance vehicles, and the XR7 was the first car to benefit from its expertise. The XR7 was a success, and it helped to establish SVO as a leader in the high-performance car market.
1987 Mercury Cougar XR7
The 1987 Mercury Cougar XR7 was a luxury sports coupe that combined performance, style, and affordability. Here are eight key aspects that highlight its significance:
- Performance: 5.0-liter or 5.8-liter V8 engine, rear-wheel drive, and a four-speed automatic transmission.
- Handling: Sport-tuned suspension, power steering, and four-wheel disc brakes.
- Style: Sleek and aerodynamic design, with a distinctive grille, alloy wheels, and a rear spoiler.
- Luxury: Leather interior, power seats, and a premium sound system.
- Affordability: Priced competitively against other luxury sports coupes.
- Collectibility: A sought-after collector’s item today.
- Historical significance: First car produced by Ford’s Special Vehicle Operations (SVO) division.
- Cultural impact: Featured in popular culture, including movies and TV shows.
These key aspects demonstrate the 1987 Mercury Cougar XR7’s enduring appeal. Its combination of performance, style, and affordability made it a popular choice among car enthusiasts, and its status as a collector’s item today is a testament to its enduring legacy.
Performance
The performance of the 1987 Mercury Cougar XR7 was one of its defining characteristics. Its powerful V8 engine, rear-wheel drive, and four-speed automatic transmission combined to deliver a thrilling driving experience.
- Power and Acceleration: The 5.0-liter V8 engine produced 225 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque, while the 5.8-liter V8 engine produced 255 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque. This gave the XR7 impressive acceleration and passing power.
- Handling and Control: The XR7’s rear-wheel drive layout and sport-tuned suspension provided agile handling and precise steering. The four-wheel disc brakes ensured strong stopping power.
- Transmission: The four-speed automatic transmission was smooth and responsive, offering a good balance of performance and fuel economy.
Overall, the performance of the 1987 Mercury Cougar XR7 was a major factor in its popularity. It offered a potent combination of power, handling, and control, making it a true driver’s car.
Handling
The “Handling: Sport-tuned suspension, power steering, and four-wheel disc brakes” of the 1987 Mercury Cougar XR7 were crucial components that contributed to its superior driving dynamics.
The sport-tuned suspension was designed to provide a balance between comfort and performance. It featured stiffer springs and shock absorbers, as well as a thicker sway bar, which reduced body roll and improved cornering ability. The power steering system provided a responsive and precise feel, making it easy to maneuver the XR7 in tight spaces and at high speeds.
The four-wheel disc brakes were a significant upgrade over the drum brakes found on many other cars at the time. They provided excellent stopping power and fade resistance, even during hard driving.
Together, these components gave the 1987 Mercury Cougar XR7 exceptional handling and control, making it a pleasure to drive on both winding roads and the open highway.
Style
The “Style: Sleek and aerodynamic design, with a distinctive grille, alloy wheels, and a rear spoiler” of the 1987 Mercury Cougar XR7 was a major contributor to its popularity and enduring appeal. Its sleek lines, sporty accents, and aerodynamic features set it apart from other cars on the road.
- Sleek and Aerodynamic Design: The XR7’s sleek and aerodynamic design reduced drag and improved fuel efficiency. Its sloping hood, flush-mounted headlights, and curved windshield gave it a distinctive and sporty look.
- Distinctive Grille: The XR7’s distinctive grille was one of its most recognizable features. It featured a black honeycomb insert with a chrome surround, giving the car a bold and aggressive appearance.
- Alloy Wheels: The XR7’s alloy wheels were another key styling element. They were lightweight and stylish, and they helped to improve the car’s handling and braking performance.
- Rear Spoiler: The XR7’s rear spoiler was a functional and stylish addition. It helped to reduce drag and improve stability at high speeds.
Overall, the “Style: Sleek and aerodynamic design, with a distinctive grille, alloy wheels, and a rear spoiler” of the 1987 Mercury Cougar XR7 was a major factor in its success. It combined sporty and aerodynamic elements to create a car that was both stylish and practical.
Luxury
In the context of the 1987 Mercury Cougar XR7, the luxury features played a significant role in enhancing the driving experience and overall appeal of the vehicle.
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Leather Interior:
The supple leather interior provided a comfortable and premium feel, elevating the cabin ambience and making long drives more enjoyable. Its durability and resistance to wear and tear ensured longevity, maintaining the car’s luxurious character over time. -
Power Seats:
Power-adjustable seats allowed drivers and passengers to find their optimal driving position with ease, contributing to comfort and reducing fatigue during extended journeys. It showcased the attention to detail and user-centric design philosophy behind the XR7. -
Premium Sound System:
The premium sound system immersed occupants in high-quality audio, enhancing the driving experience. Its crisp sound reproduction and powerful speakers created an enjoyable acoustic environment, whether listening to music, podcasts, or audiobooks.
These luxury features collectively elevated the 1987 Mercury Cougar XR7 beyond a mere performance-oriented vehicle, making it a well-rounded package that catered to discerning drivers who sought both style and comfort.
Affordability
The “Affordability: Priced competitively against other luxury sports coupes” aspect of the 1987 Mercury Cougar XR7 was a strategic move that significantly contributed to its success and popularity.
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Value for Money:
Compared to its competitors in the luxury sports coupe segment, the XR7 offered an exceptional value for money. Its competitive pricing made it an attractive option for buyers seeking a premium driving experience without breaking the bank. -
Broader Market Appeal:
By pricing the XR7 competitively, Mercury was able to expand its target market beyond traditional luxury car buyers. It opened up the possibility of ownership to a wider range of consumers who may not have otherwise considered a luxury sports coupe. -
Sales Success:
The affordability of the XR7 played a crucial role in its sales success. Its competitive pricing made it a viable choice for many buyers, contributing to strong sales figures and solidifying its position in the market.
In conclusion, the “Affordability: Priced competitively against other luxury sports coupes” aspect was a key factor in the 1987 Mercury Cougar XR7’s popularity and sales success. It allowed Mercury to offer a compelling value proposition, broaden the car’s appeal, and ultimately achieve strong market performance.
Collectibility
The 1987 Mercury Cougar XR7 has gained significant recognition as a collector’s item, further enhancing its legacy and appeal among automotive enthusiasts. This collectibility is attributed to several key factors that have contributed to its enduring popularity and value.
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Rarity and Nostalgia:
The XR7 was produced in limited numbers, making it a relatively rare find today. Its distinctive design, performance capabilities, and association with the 1980s era evoke a sense of nostalgia and desirability among collectors. -
Historical Significance:
As the first vehicle produced by Ford’s Special Vehicle Operations (SVO) division, the XR7 holds a special place in automotive history. Its status as a pioneer in SVO’s high-performance legacy adds to its collectability and appeal. -
Preservation and Restoration:
Many XR7 owners have meticulously preserved and restored their vehicles, ensuring their longevity and originality. This dedication to maintaining the car’s original condition has contributed to its desirability as a collector’s item. -
Investment Value:
Over the years, the XR7 has consistently appreciated in value, making it a sound investment for collectors. Its rarity, historical significance, and growing demand have all contributed to its status as a valuable asset.
In conclusion, the collectibility of the 1987 Mercury Cougar XR7 is a testament to its enduring appeal, historical significance, and investment potential. Its rarity, nostalgia, and association with SVO have solidified its position as a sought-after collector’s item among automotive enthusiasts.
Historical significance
The 1987 Mercury Cougar XR7 holds a significant place in automotive history as the first vehicle produced by Ford’s Special Vehicle Operations (SVO) division. This connection is crucial in understanding the XR7’s legacy and its impact on Ford’s performance vehicle development.
SVO was established in 1981 with a mission to develop and produce high-performance vehicles for Ford. The XR7 was the first product of this new division, and it showcased SVO’s capabilities in creating vehicles that combined performance, style, and handling.
The XR7’s success as a performance coupe helped establish SVO’s reputation and laid the groundwork for future high-performance Ford vehicles, such as the Mustang SVT Cobra and the Ford GT. The XR7’s historical significance as the first SVO vehicle is a testament to its importance in the evolution of Ford’s performance division.
Cultural impact
The 1987 Mercury Cougar XR7 gained significant cultural recognition through its appearances in popular films and television shows, solidifying its status as an iconic vehicle.
The XR7’s sleek design and sporty performance made it a natural choice for filmmakers seeking to portray a sense of excitement and style. Its appearances in movies such as “Rain Man” (1988) and “Thelma & Louise” (1991) showcased its on-screen presence and contributed to its growing popularity.
On television, the XR7 made notable appearances in shows like “Miami Vice” (1984-1989) and “Magnum, P.I.” (1980-1988), further cementing its association with action and adventure. Its presence in these highly-rated shows exposed the XR7 to a wide audience, increasing its visibility and desirability.
The cultural impact of the 1987 Mercury Cougar XR7 extended beyond its on-screen appearances. Its association with popular culture icons, such as Don Johnson’s character Sonny Crockett in “Miami Vice,” transformed it into a symbol of style and sophistication. This cultural connection played a significant role in shaping the XR7’s legacy and enhancing its appeal among car enthusiasts.
FAQs about the 1987 Mercury Cougar XR7
This section addresses frequently asked questions about the 1987 Mercury Cougar XR7. We aim to provide concise and informative answers to commonly held concerns and misconceptions.
Question 1: What engine options were available for the 1987 Mercury Cougar XR7?
The 1987 Mercury Cougar XR7 was offered with two engine options: a 5.0-liter V8 engine and a 5.8-liter V8 engine. The 5.0-liter engine produced 225 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque, while the 5.8-liter engine produced 255 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque.
Question 2: What was the performance of the 1987 Mercury Cougar XR7?
The 1987 Mercury Cougar XR7 offered impressive performance. It could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 6 seconds and had a top speed of around 130 mph. Its handling was also praised, with responsive steering and a well-tuned suspension providing a balanced and engaging driving experience.
Question 3: What features were included in the interior of the 1987 Mercury Cougar XR7?
The 1987 Mercury Cougar XR7 featured a comfortable and well-equipped interior. It came standard with leather seats, power windows, power locks, and a premium sound system. Optional features included a sunroof, a CD player, and a digital instrument cluster.
Question 4: What safety features were available in the 1987 Mercury Cougar XR7?
The 1987 Mercury Cougar XR7 offered a range of safety features for its time. It came standard with three-point seatbelts, a driver-side airbag, and anti-lock brakes. Traction control was available as an optional extra.
Question 5: How many 1987 Mercury Cougar XR7s were produced?
Ford produced a total of 11,831 units of the 1987 Mercury Cougar XR7. Of these, approximately 9,000 were equipped with the 5.0-liter engine, while the remaining 2,831 had the 5.8-liter engine.
Question 6: What is the current value of a 1987 Mercury Cougar XR7?
The value of a 1987 Mercury Cougar XR7 varies depending on its condition, mileage, and options. However, in general, well-maintained examples with low mileage can fetch prices ranging from $20,000 to $40,000 or more.
We hope these FAQs have addressed some of the common questions and concerns surrounding the 1987 Mercury Cougar XR7. If you have any further inquiries, please do not hesitate to seek additional information from reputable sources.
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1987 Mercury Cougar XR7
Maintaining and preserving your 1987 Mercury Cougar XR7 is crucial to ensuring its longevity and preserving its value. Here are some valuable tips to guide you:
Tip 1: Regular Maintenance and Servicing
Regular maintenance is essential for the smooth functioning of your XR7. Adhere to the recommended maintenance schedule outlined in your owner’s manual. This includes regular oil changes, fluid checks, and inspections of vital components.
Tip 2: Protect Your Paint
The XR7’s sleek paint finish is susceptible to fading and damage. Protect it by applying a high-quality wax or sealant and washing your car regularly using proper techniques. Avoid harsh detergents and abrasive cloths.
Tip 3: Preserve the Interior
The XR7’s leather interior requires proper care to maintain its pristine condition. Use leather cleaners and conditioners specifically designed for automotive interiors. Regular vacuuming and spot cleaning will help prevent stains and wear.
Tip 4: Maintain the Electrical System
The XR7’s electrical system is complex and requires attention. Ensure a reliable electrical connection by cleaning battery terminals, inspecting wiring harnesses, and promptly addressing any electrical issues.
Tip 5: Enhance Performance with Genuine Parts
When replacing components or performing repairs, opt for genuine Mercury parts. These parts are engineered specifically for your XR7, ensuring optimal performance, fit, and durability.
Tip 6: Protect Against Rust
Rust is a common enemy of classic cars. Protect your XR7 by regularly inspecting for signs of rust and addressing them promptly. Apply rust-preventive coatings to vulnerable areas and store your car in a dry and well-ventilated environment.
Summary
By following these tips, you can maintain and preserve the beauty, performance, and value of your 1987 Mercury Cougar XR7. Regular maintenance, proper care, and the use of genuine parts will ensure that your XR7 continues to turn heads and provide years of driving enjoyment.
Remember, preserving a classic car requires dedication and attention to detail. By investing your time and effort, you can ensure that your XR7 remains a testament to automotive excellence for generations to come.
1987 Mercury Cougar XR7
The 1987 Mercury Cougar XR7 stands as a testament to the convergence of performance, style, and affordability. Its sleek design, powerful V8 engines, and well-equipped interior captivated car enthusiasts. As the first vehicle produced by Ford’s Special Vehicle Operations (SVO) division, the XR7 played a pivotal role in shaping Ford’s high-performance legacy.
Today, the 1987 Mercury Cougar XR7 remains a sought-after collector’s item, its rarity and historical significance adding to its allure. Its cultural impact, as evidenced by its appearances in popular films and television shows, has cemented its status as an iconic vehicle. Preserving and maintaining the XR7 requires meticulous care, with genuine parts and proper techniques ensuring it continues to be a cherished piece of automotive history.