1964 Mercury Comet Cyclone (w/ matching motorcycle)
Mercury launched its performance credentials in 1964 with the introduction of the Cyclone package, transforming the compact Comet into a legitimate muscle car contender.
The hardtop coupe featured horizontal quad headlights mounted in a distinctive mesh grille, plus checkered flag insignias on the rear fenders that announced its sporting intentions.
Chrome wheel covers and a wider stance on 14-inch tires gave the Cyclone an aggressive appearance that backed up its performance claims.
The heart of the Cyclone was a 289 cubic inch overhead-valve V8 producing 210 horsepower and 300 pound-feet of torque through a four-barrel carburetor. This powerplant could be paired with a three-speed manual, four-speed manual, or Mercury’s Merc-O-Matic automatic transmission.
Period tests recorded 0-60 mph times in the 7.9–9.7 second range depending on transmission and gearing.
Interior appointments included bucket seats with sewn-through pleats, a three-spoke steering wheel, and optional Rally-Pac gauges.
Mercury produced approximately 7,454 Cyclones in 1964, establishing the nameplate that would become synonymous with Ford Motor Company’s intermediate muscle car efforts.
The example shown demonstrates the enthusiast appeal of these cars, complete with a custom matching Honda motorcycle and trailer painted in coordinating red, creating a cohesive ensemble that reflects the owner’s attention to detail and passion for period-correct styling.
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