Modern Motoring

Northern Advocate, 13 May 1939, Page 6 (Supplement)

Modern Motoring

An Entirely New Car

The Eight Cylinder Mercury

f The public are always eager to inspect the newest product of the motor industry, because this industry more than any other is continually introducing new developments and improvements. The announcement, therefore, of an entirely new car, the eight-cylinder Mercury, is creating widespread interest throughout New Zealand. 1

Behind the new name —Mercury—is another name almost as old as the motor-car industry itself, the Ford Motor Company. The eight-cylinder Mercury is an additional product of the Ford Motor Company and, it reflects the.achievements of more than 35 years of practical experience in building quality cars.

Buiit’ on a 116-inch wheelbase, with a 127-inch springbase, the Mercury is 16 feet Sihches-in overall length. That definitely puts in it the big car class. In addition to its length, it is an exceptionally wide car. The door-tc-dccr seating width in the front is no less than, 56 inches and even more in the rear compartment. This extra width is gained by the modern narrow running boards and the sides curved outwards below the window line, giving greater space where it is most needed. Consequently, the Mercury is a full six-passenger err, thiec big people being able to sit comfortably in both the front and rear seats.

Hints, Information and Advice for Owners and Drivers

Pleasing New Lines The smooth, flowing lines of the Mercury are exceptionally attractive. From the deep front fenders with recessed headlamps to the smartly sloping rear it impresses with beauty and rugged ' strength combined. A wide chromium band extends the full length of the car and the distinctive radiator grille is also in chromium. The sloping rear conceals the luggage compartment and this is surprisingly roomy. In addition to the spare wheel, which is mounted vertically for extra space, there is ample accommodation for several average suit cases and other odd luggage. An interesting feature here is the combination luggage compartment door handle, lock and license plate lamp. In every detail, interiors are designed for beauty, utility and comfort. Appointments are tastefully modern. The streamline-mounted steering wheel is particularly attractive, and with only two spokes, it allows the driver maximum visibility to the instrument panel. This is tilted and the instruments conveniently grouped. are placed directly in front of the driver. They include speedometer, trip mile register, fuel, oil and temperature indicators, “tell-tale” light for headlamp beam, and a new battery condition indicator. In the centre is a grille for radio installation and to the left a large compartment for gloves and odd parcels. Mounted on the door of this compartment (which, incidentally, locks) is an attractive electric clock.

The seats are wide, deep and very restful. Seat cushions have big, soft springs and a flexible roll edge which greatly adds to comfort. The front seat is adjustable. Upholstery is handbuffed genuine leather. There are arm rests for the driver as well as passengers, dual sun-visors, foot-rests, robe cord and assist cords and ash trays in both front and rear. Worth noting also are the special door stops which hold the doors open as long as desired even though the car is tilted. Ventilation is very effective and conveniently adjusted. One handle opens and lowers the windows and the ventilation slot.

The eight-cylinder Mercury is a remarkably quiet car in which to ride. During the past twelve months Ford engineers have conducted an intensive sound-proofing research. Intricate machines were used to detect sources of noise, squeaks and sounds that detract from true motoring pleasure were silenced, while new sound insulating materials are employed throughout the Mercury body and chassis.

Passengers ride cradled between the axles instead of over them and a real riding comfort contribution is the balanced weight, permitting equalised flexibility in the front and rear springs. Four double acting hydraulic shock absorbers are used to keep road jars away from the body.

Big Eight-Cylinder Engine The Mercury is powered with a big 95 horsepower, eight-cylinder engine—the cylinders in V-formation. Although this is an entirely new engine it is the type which has already established an enviable record for outstanding performance, smoothness and consistent economy. The power-to-weight ratio is extremely favourable so that really good performance can be expected by every owner.

Big hydraulic brakes of the very new T est type are used. Brake shoes, which have a total of 162 square inches of braking surface, operate on 12-inch drums. The handbrake lever, conveniently mounted under the instrument

panel, operates mechanical brakes on the two rear wheels. In accordance with its big car standards throughout, the eight-cylinder Mercury is equipped with large oversize 6.50 x 16 tyres and a welcome feature is the 17 plate 100 amp. battery, allowing full use of lights and radio.

Many safety features include a onepiece all-steel bod 3% exceptionally strong and rigid frame, safety glass throughout . and excellent visibility from the low belt and cowl lines and clear vision ventilation. Built in New Zealand In addition to representing the very latest developments in motorcar design this new car is a striking example of the high standard attained by the motor industry in New Zealand. Many people are surprised to learn that the Mercury is built in Now Zealand,and this is another reason why this car is well worth a detailed inspection.