Montclair Means "Big" and Finally We Learn to Love It

Filed in archive Ford , Private Collections on January 13, 2007

Were the Detroit cars of the late 50's and early 60's big? Does a fish have fins? Admittedly our photo of Ted Forbe's (see two previous blogs) 1958 Mercury Montclair convertible exaggerates, though not by much. But first, a confession: When this Montclair was built yours truly, as a young and prejudiced import/sports car enthusiast, would have ridiculed it. Too heavy, over-decorated, handles like a pig, etc. All of which was true. But now, looking at this car from an historical perspective and with a better understanding of how it reflected the mood of the times, I'm a fan. I can see the beauty in the details.

I can sense the pride of ownership it gave. I can look back and imagine the pleasure it gave to the owner and his friends (girlfriends, especially) as they cruised down Main Street. And I can certainly appreciate the effort Ted put into bringing it to its present high standard. Impractical it may be in modern terms but who cannot admire that stretched bumper pan making way for a "continental" spare that swung to the side for access to the trunk? (By the way, it drives like it looks.) Suitably inspired, I'm off to Arizona... watch this space for daily updates from America's most spectacular collector car auctions.