1963 Mercury Monterey S-55 Marauder

Description

Introduced during a period of fierce full-‑size performance competition among American manufacturers, Mercury’s Marauder lineup arrived in 1963 with a sleek, aerodynamic fastback roofline designed to dominate NASCAR oval tracks. The Marauder roofline was offered across several trim levels, while the top spec S-55 package added a sport‑spec S-55 package added a sport-oriented interior with bucket seats, a center console, and performance‑oriented interior with bucket seats, a center console, and performance‑focused mechanical options.

This 1963 Mercury Monterey S-55 Marauder is one of a reported 2,319 produced, making it a rare example of Mercury’s early‑1960s performance efforts. Finished in Cascade Blue with a Sultana White top, the car features a medium blue vinyl cabin.

Powered by a rebuilt 390 cubic-inch V8 said to have been bored .040 over and fitted with a 268 camshaft, this Marauder features S-55 specification equipment including a four-barrel carburetor and factory dual exhaust. The engine rebuild reportedly utilized a 1968 block and heads while retaining the original 1963 intake and valve covers to preserve a factory appearance. A rebuilt Merc-O-Matic three-speed automatic transmission, upgraded cooling components, and other replacement mechanical items have also been installed.

As a testament to its care, the sale of this Monterey S-55 Marauder comes with service notes said to date back to 1967, including documentation of an odometer rollover.

This 1963 Mercury Monterey S-55 Marauder is now offered with spare parts, owner's and shop manuals, and a clean Washington State title in the seller’s name.

Highlights

• One of approximately 2,319 1963 Mercury Monterey S-55 Marauder models produced

• Powered by a rebuilt 390ci V8 (bored .040 over) with a 268 camshaft

• Rebuilt Dual-Range Merc-O-Matic 3-speed automatic transmission, rear-wheel drive

• Finished in Cascade Blue with a Sultana White top

• Chassis No. 3Z68Z544594 decodes as:

  • 3 – 1963 model year

  • Z – St. Louis, Missouri assembly plant

  • 68 – Marauder 2‑door hardtop

  • Z – 390ci 4‑barrel V8

  • 544594 – Sequential production number

Factory Equipment

• S55 Package:

  • Center console with floor-mounted shifter

  • Performance‑oriented trim

  • Distinct fastback roofline

  • Front bucket seats

• Coil‑spring front suspension and rear leaf springs

• 390ci 4‑barrel dual‑exhaust “Super Marauder” engine

• 12‑volt electrical system

• Power steering

Modifications:

• Rebuilt 390ci V8 said to use a 1968 block and heads and bored .40 over

• Reproduction dual exhaust system

• 268 camshaft

Servicing

The seller reports that the following work has been performed:

• Powertrain:

  • Rebuilt 390ci V8 bored .040 over; 268 camshaft installed

  • Autolite 4100 carburetor installed

  • Rebuilt radiator with added third core

  • Rebuilt expansion tank

  • Heater core replaced

• Drivetrain:

  • Automatic transmission overhauled

  • Brakes and ball joints serviced

  • Power steering unit overhauled

  • Front wheel bearings replaced

  • Master cylinder replaced

  • Shock absorbers replaced

Known Imperfections

• Old tires that should be replaced before the car is driven

• Rear spring bushings are due for replacement

• Paint shows various flaws as pictured in the gallery

• Upholstery wear shown in gallery

• Corrosion on lower right front fender

• Missing rubber plugs in trunk floor

• Dents in right door

Ownership History

• Unrestored example with mileage documented by service notes reportedly dating back to 1967

Included Items

• Owner’s manuals, shop manuals, and wiring diagram

• Uninstalled rear spring bushings

• Service notes said to date back to 1967

• Uninstalled Autolite 4100 carburetor

• Various spare components

• Two sets of keys

Additional Notes

From the seller: “The car is a little temperamental to start. Sometimes starting fluid is needed depending on how long it sets. It also needs to warm up before driving or it will die. Once warmed up it drives, turns, and stops well. It shifts with crisp changes and no slipping. The manual drum brakes take a little getting used to. There is a rebuilt power booster and original power brake pedal included with the parts.

I have receipts for approximately $12,000.00 in parts and services. The mileage documentation is a notepad with handwritten entries showing the services and mileage. There are entries clearly showing that the odometer turned over.”

DISCLAIMER: This vehicle's Washington State title carries a "WA20060615CLASSIC" branding. In Washington State, a "classic" or collector vehicle brand applies to cars at least 30 years old, allowing for permanent license plates and a one-time registration fee.