1968 Mercury Cougar XR-7

Owner: Tim Miller
Location: Allentown, PA

This sharp 1968 Mercury Cougar XR-7 is a second chance for Tim Miller of Allentown, PA, who loved his first car - a 1970 Mercury Cougar XR-7 - but quickly “drove it into the ground.” Tim always hoped he’d have another Cougar someday and 17 years later he bought this one road ready (except for a carburetor rebuild). After driving it three years the transformation began with a complete body restoration. Seven years and numerous setbacks later the engine was replaced with a remanufactured stock 302 ci engine from Jasper Engines & Transmissions – and the restoration was complete. Tim drives his ’68 Cougar XR-7 recreationally – about 2000 miles a year – and says he enjoys the car as much as ever. “I’m glad I got a second chance,” he says.

Do you have some great photos of rebuilt engines? Get them posted here by sending them to erc@enginerepower.org. Be sure to provide descriptions and/or details with your photo submissions.