Big-Block 1963 Mercury Monterey S-55 Returns After 30 Years With Everything Original

The S-55 initially included bucket seats, a center console, special wheel covers to tell the performance-oriented package apart from the rest of the Montereys, and a shifter installed on the floor. Customers who ordered the S-55 could fit their cars with 390 or 406 V8s.

In 1963, Mercury upgraded the Monterey engine lineup, changing the optional powertrain list for the S-55 too. The 406 waved goodbye to the Monterey, making room for a 427 with 410 and 425 horsepower ratings. Both units were also available on the S-55.

eBay seller classicsbytitus has recently posted a 1963 Monterey S-55 on the auction site, as they are trying to find a new owner for a classic car that spent the last 30 years in storage.

The vehicle needs complete restoration, and the shared photos suggest the project could be pretty easy. The S-55 still flexes a solid body with no rust issues, though you should inspect the car closely, especially on the undersides and in the trunk. The owner admits the trunk has rust, and the deck lid exhibits similar problems, but this isn't surprising considering the Monterey spent three decades in hiding.

Unfortunately, we're not getting any information on the storage location. A barn with high humidity typically causes major rust problems, so ask more questions about the storage conditions before committing to a purchase.

The 390 big block under the hood still turns over. An engine that's not locked up from sitting is good news, but you won't determine its actual condition without checking it out live. The vehicle sleeps in Williston, Florida, so you know what you have to do if for an in-person inspection. Reach out to the seller in advance for additional information.

This Monterey spent its entire life with a single owner, and judging from its condition, they knew exactly what they were doing. The paint shows signs of aging but nothing out of the ordinary, and the interior looks better than 90 percent of the barn finds I've seen lately.

The selling price makes perfect sense, especially as an S-55 makes a Monterey more desirable than a standard model, especially if it continues to be completely original. I don't have any figures to prove that a 1963 S-55 is a rare find, but I haven't seen too many in the last few years, and certainly not in this condition.

The owner wants to let it go for $8,500, and no other offers are considered. This is a fixed price, as the seller wasn't interested in a bidding war.