1956 Mercury XM Turnpike Cruiser Concept
Designed by Mercury and constructed in Italy by Ghia in 1955, this jet-age concept car previewed styling themes that influenced Mercury’s 1957-1959 production models. The XM designation denotes “Experimental Mercury,” with the one-off prototype utilizing a 1954 Ford F-250 chassis.
Finished in the 1956 factory color Persimmon with a pearlescent topcoat, the exterior showcases futuristic mid-1950s design elements. Double fin coves wrap around the taillights and are painted Pearl White over brushed chrome.
Transparent butterfly roof panels open and close automatically with the doors, reinforcing the car’s space-age character. Unique exhaust ports exit through the lower rear quarter panels, and stoplights are mounted under the rear roof corners.
Front turn signals are mounted behind the grille under the headlights, while a split front bumper is flanked by twin jet pods. Concealed outside door handles and a unique “Big-M” hood ornament complete the dramatic profile.
The space-age instrument cluster incorporates a tachometer and distinctive styling elements unique to the concept. Power windows are fitted, although due to the experimental design they do not seal weather-tight.
Power comes from a 292 cubic inch V-8 rated at 188 horsepower, fitted with unique Turnpike Cruiser valve covers and paired with a Merc-O-Matic automatic transmission. Power steering and power brakes were included, underscoring the car’s advanced intent.
The XM Turnpike Cruiser toured the country in a custom trailer featuring a turntable and glass paneling. It was shown at the 1956 Cleveland Auto Show, followed by appearances in Detroit, Chicago, and New York.
The car later served as the pace car at the Daytona Beach Grand National Race on February 17, 1957. After its show career, it was parked outside Ford, passed through several owners, and eventually fell into disrepair.
A comprehensive restoration was completed between 2017 and 2022, with an estimated 6,000 hours invested to return the car to its original condition.
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