Stunning restoration of an ultra-clean XR7 convertible. Loaded with options, including 351 4v engine, cold A/C, console, and more. Heavily documented with build sheet, Marti Report, Owner Card, ownership history, restoration receipts, and much more.

The Cougar was restyled in 1969 and it was the first year for a Cougar convertible, which was strangely missing from the options list. Nevertheless, only 4024 buyers ponied up for the top-of-the-line XR7 convertible and even fewer upgraded their engine to the rather stout M-code 351 with 290 horsepower. This spectacular Burnt Orange Metallic XR7 convertible wears a fresh restoration to a very high standard and you’d better believe it’s gorgeous in person. Revised styling showcases curvaceous new quarter panels that give the Cougar a more dramatic look and it looks every bit like a grown-up’s muscle car. Finish quality is exemplary, with arrow-straight bodywork and even body gaps, and that two-stage urethane paint looks worlds better than anything they were spraying in 1969. The metallic orange paint has a deep glow that shows best in the sunlight—the lights in our studio just don’t do it justice. It also wears a simple pinstripe to highlight the new shape. And just check out the crease running from the headlights to the rear fender arch, it’s crisp enough to give you a paper cut. All the chrome was likewise restored and, of course, the headlights work properly and the sequential taillight flash as they should.

The white leather interior (yes, leather, not vinyl, was used in the Cougar) is just as beautifully finished. The hides are virtually unmarked and show few signs of use, and black carpets work with the black dash to keep it from being white overload. Plenty of simulated burled walnut reminds you that the Cougar was meant for a more upscale clientele, and this car is equipped with a full set of gauges, all of which are operational (including the clock). Other options include factory A/C, a full-length center console, and an AM/FM radio that was installed during the restoration. Thanks to the Cougar’s longer wheelbase, the back seat is a bit more spacious than the Mustang’s, and the trunk is finished with a correct plaid mat and cover for the full-sized spare tire. Overhead there’s a white power convertible top that features the distinctive two-piece rear window, and it stows neatly under a matching white boot.

The optional M-code 351 cubic inch V8 carries a 4-barrel carburetor and was rated at a rather stout 290 horsepower. It’s the right choice in an easy cruiser like the Cougar, although it has the horsepower to surprise other more significant performance cars. It was fully rebuilt to stock specs and runs superbly—easy starts, smooth idle, and lots of torque to make it feel lively on the road. It’s detailed for show with Ford Blue engine enamel, reproduction decals, a correct air cleaner assembly, and niceties like the Ford script hose and wire hose clamps. There’s even an Autolite battery topper to make it look right. It’s backed by a 3-speed automatic transmission and 3.00 gears out back, so it’s obviously meant to be a cruiser. Power steering and power front disc brakes are part of the package, and there’s a new stock-style dual exhaust system that has a mellow V8 sound that never gets in your way. There’s also a new gas tank out back, rebuilt front suspension with new shocks, and new lines and hoses throughout. Factory styled steels wheels were added during the restoration and carry 215/70/14 BFGoodrich T/A radials all around.

Documentation is extensive, including a build sheet, Owner Card, original window sticker, Marti Report, ownership history, restoration receipts, and much, much more.

If this car was merely pretty, it would be a popular choice. But the fact that it runs beautifully, has plenty of punch, a long list of options, and an awesome pedigree makes it a high-grade Cougar that stands out from the crowd. If garden-variety is all you need, well, this isn’t your car. This is a car for people who want something better than everyone else, something exceptional. If that’s you, give us a call today!

Harwood Motors always recommends and welcomes personal or professional inspections of any vehicle in our inventory prior to purchase.