When Ford transformed the Mustang into the Thunderbird, Mercury seized the opportunity to introduce its own version of the pony car: the 1967 Mercury Cougar. Designed as a more refined alternative to the Mustang, the Cougar combined sporty appeal with a luxurious European flair, making it a hit among buyers.
The Story of Ottavio Mecca’s 1967 XR-7 Cougar
In 1967, Ottavio Mecca purchased a brand-new Mercury Cougar XR-7 in Inverness Green. As a European immigrant in America, Ottavio found the car’s blend of power and elegance particularly appealing. His nephew, John P. Schiavone, spent countless hours riding shotgun, forming a lifelong admiration for the Cougar.
The XR-7 trim, with its luxury interior, cost an extra $250 and featured leather seats, woodgrain dashboard accents, additional gauges, and an overhead console with warning lights. However, after several harsh winters in Buffalo, the car succumbed to rust and was eventually traded in for a 1971 Pontiac Le Mans.
The Father-Son Project: Reviving the Cougar
Years later, John A. Schiavone and his son reignited their family’s passion for the Cougar. After a decade-long debate, they finally purchased a rough but drivable non-XR-7 Cougar from Arizona and brought it home to New York. Rather than restoring it to factory condition, they chose the restomod route to enhance performance and reliability while retaining its classic charm.
The Restomod Process
Chassis & Suspension
To improve handling, they removed the factory suspension and replaced it with TCI’s independent front suspension (IFS) and a torque-arm rear suspension. This decision was inspired by a build featured on the GearZ television show, demonstrating the transformation potential of these upgrades.
Engine Upgrade
The team opted for a Ford Performance Boss 427 crate engine, derived from a 351 Windsor block. This powerhouse delivers 535 horsepower and maintains the Cougar’s small-block heritage while providing modern performance. They paired the engine with a FiTech fuel injection system for increased efficiency and drivability.
Body & Paint
The car’s bodywork was refinished in its original 1967 Inverness Green, but with a modern twist. Inspired by the 1968 Cougar GT-E, they painted the lower rockers in metallic gray, creating an illusion of reflection on asphalt. A 1968 GT-E hood scoop and a 1969 Cougar Eliminator rear wing were added for a sportier look.
Interior Transformation
Determined to maintain the European luxury aesthetic, they sourced a pair of 2007 Ferrari 599 GTB seats. The entire interior was reupholstered in matching tan leather, including the rear seats, door panels, and center console. A custom rosewood dashboard insert, laser-cut by John himself, added the finishing touch.
Conclusion
The Schiavones’ Mercury Cougar restomod is a perfect example of blending classic styling with modern engineering. By retaining its original essence while incorporating contemporary performance upgrades, they’ve created a car that pays homage to the past while being practical for today’s roads. This project stands as a testament to their shared passion for automobiles and the rich legacy of the Mercury Cougar.
