The 1968 Mercury Cougar Hertz XR7-G is a legendary American muscle car that holds a special place in automotive history. Born out of a collaboration between Mercury and the Hertz car rental company, the XR7-G edition combined luxury, performance, and exclusivity. In this article, we’ll explore the fascinating story behind the 1968 Mercury Cougar and delve into the details of the XR7-G edition, including its design, features, driving experience, rarity, and influence on the automotive world.

The 1968 Mercury Cougar was an iconic model produced by the American automaker, Mercury. It was introduced as a luxurious alternative to the Ford Mustang, with its own unique style and features. In 1968, the Cougar underwent significant changes, solidifying its position as a desirable and powerful vehicle. It was during this year that the Hertz XR7-G edition was introduced, marking a special collaboration between Mercury and Hertz.

History of the Mercury Cougar

To understand the significance of the 1968 Mercury Cougar, we need to delve into its history. The Cougar was first introduced in 1967 as Mercury’s answer to the Ford Mustang, which had achieved immense popularity in the muscle car segment. The Cougar was positioned as a more refined and luxurious alternative, appealing to a broader range of buyers.

The 1968 model year brought several improvements and changes to the Cougar. It received a more aggressive design with a bolder grille and new styling cues, giving it a distinct appearance. The 1968 Cougar also boasted enhanced performance and handling capabilities, making it a formidable competitor in the muscle car market.

The Birth of the XR7-G Edition

The XR7-G edition was the result of a collaboration between Mercury and Hertz, the renowned car rental company. Hertz recognized the growing demand for high-performance vehicles and partnered with Mercury to create a limited-edition Cougar that would cater to enthusiasts. The “XR7-G” designation represented the combination of Mercury’s XR7 luxury trim and Hertz’s involvement.

The XR7-G edition was characterized by its exclusivity and unique features, making it highly coveted among collectors and enthusiasts. It was limited to a production run of just 619 units, adding to its allure and rarity.

Design and Features of the 1968 Mercury Cougar Hertz XR7-G

The 1968 Mercury Cougar Hertz XR7-G featured several design elements that set it apart from the standard model. On the exterior, it showcased a distinctive black paint scheme with gold striping, paying homage to Hertz’s corporate colors. The XR7-G also sported a functional hood scoop, adding to its aggressive appearance.

Inside the cabin, the XR7-G edition boasted luxurious appointments, including high-back bucket seats, a woodgrain dashboard, and XR7 badging. It offered a range of optional features such as air conditioning, power windows, and a center console with a floor shifter, providing a comfortable and premium driving experience.

Driving Experience and Performance

The 1968 Mercury Cougar Hertz XR7-G offered impressive performance for its time. It came equipped with a range of engine options, including the potent 428 Cobra Jet V8, which produced an exhilarating amount of power. The XR7-G featured handling and suspension upgrades, allowing it to deliver a balanced and engaging driving experience.

With its powerful engine and performance-oriented enhancements, the XR7-G could achieve impressive acceleration and top speeds. It was a car that combined luxury and comfort with raw power, providing a thrilling driving experience for those fortunate enough to get behind the wheel.

Rarity and Collectibility

Due to its limited production numbers, the 1968 Mercury Cougar Hertz XR7-G is considered a highly collectible vehicle. With only 619 units ever built, finding an original and well-preserved XR7-G can be quite a challenge. The rarity of the XR7-G, coupled with its unique design and association with Hertz, has made it highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts worldwide.

The current market value of an XR7-G varies depending on its condition, originality, and documentation. Well-maintained and fully restored examples can command significant prices, reflecting their desirability and scarcity in the collector car market. Notable auctions and private sales have seen XR7-Gs change hands for impressive sums, further establishing their status as prized collectibles.

Restorations and Modifications

Restoring a 1968 Mercury Cougar Hertz XR7-G requires careful attention to detail to preserve its authenticity and historical significance. Many enthusiasts strive to bring these iconic muscle cars back to their original glory, adhering to factory specifications and finishes. However, some owners choose to modify their XR7-Gs to enhance performance or personalize their vehicles while maintaining respect for the car’s heritage.

Popular restoration trends for the XR7-G include recreating the original black and gold paint scheme, sourcing period-correct parts and accessories, and ensuring accurate engine and drivetrain specifications. Customization options also exist for those looking to create a unique interpretation of the XR7-G, blending modern upgrades with classic styling cues.

Legacy and Influence

The 1968 Mercury Cougar Hertz XR7-G left a lasting legacy on the Mercury Cougar brand and the automotive industry as a whole. Its limited production run and association with Hertz added an air of exclusivity and desirability to the Cougar lineup. The XR7-G showcased Mercury’s commitment to combining luxury and performance, setting a precedent for future special editions and performance variants.

Today, the XR7-G continues to captivate the hearts of automotive enthusiasts, with a dedicated community of owners and admirers. Its cultural significance and impact on the muscle car landscape cannot be understated, making it a true icon of American automotive history.

Conclusion

The 1968 Mercury Cougar Hertz XR7-G is a rare gem that embodies the spirit of American muscle cars. Its limited production, unique design, and powerful performance make it a highly sought-after collectible. The XR7-G’s collaboration between Mercury and Hertz resulted in a vehicle that beautifully blended luxury and performance, leaving a lasting impact on the automotive industry. Whether admired for its rarity or cherished for its driving experience, the XR7-G holds a special place in the hearts of enthusiasts and stands as a testament to an era of automotive excellence.

FAQs

1. What does the “XR7-G” designation stand for?
   • The “XR7-G” designation combines Mercury’s XR7 luxury trim and Hertz’s involvement in the collaboration.
2. How many 1968 Mercury Cougar Hertz XR7-G editions were produced?
   • Only 619 units of the 1968 Mercury Cougar Hertz XR7-G were produced, adding to its exclusivity and collectibility.
3. Can I still find a 1968 Mercury Cougar Hertz XR7-G for sale?
   • Due to its rarity, finding an original and well-preserved XR7-G can be challenging. However, they do occasionally appear on the collector car market.
4. What makes the XR7-G edition unique compared to other Mercury Cougars?
   • The XR7-G edition features exclusive design elements, luxury features, and performance upgrades that differentiate it from the standard Mercury Cougars of its time.
5. Are there any modern counterparts or reissues of the XR7-G?
   • There are no official modern counterparts or reissues of the 1968 Mercury Cougar Hertz XR7-G. However, the XR7-G’s influence can be seen in special editions and performance variants of modern vehicles.