Project Description

1964 Mercury Comet Caliente – Every Car Has A Story.

A memory-rich, family history of a Mercury Comet passed down through 7 siblings since the 1960s.

It was decision time for the family car that had been enjoyed by brothers and sisters alike.  From grocery getter to high school hot rod to commuter car then eventually retiring in the 1990s where it sat for many years.  Sell it?  Scrap it?  The eldest brother had another idea and Fort Pitt Classic Cars was chosen to help breathe new life into a very adventurous resto-mod project.  An estimated 15 years of planning, restoration and customization, designed with the owner, created a classic Mercury rag-top with the benefits of modern automotive technology.

At the heart of the ’64 is a fuel-injected Boss 302 crate motor mated to a 4-speed automatic transmission, breathing out through a custom SpinTech low-profile, oval exhaust.  This required moving the firewall and additional custom fabrication processes to strengthen the very tired frame.  New floor pans and trunk were also needed.

The car now rides on 17-inch front and 18-inch rear Vision Legend series chrome wheels.  The front suspension was updated to an independent front with a 4-link rear and completed with coil overs.  Finished off with Wilwood disc brakes on all 4 corners.

Moving to the inside is a complete custom leather interior and new convertible top by Pittsburgh-based McGowan Upholstery, Vintage Air climate control, original restored gauges with LED dash lights, power windows and locks, keyless entry, push-button start, custom steering column, and the original radio with upgraded internal components to include Bluetooth.  Finishing off the car is freshly re-chromed bumpers, and refinished original brightwork and emblems.

The first drive by the owner, with Mom by his side, is a picture of pure joy.  It’s why we do what we do!  Every car has a story.