A teal 1968 Mercury Cougar XR-7 restomod features a 347 stroker V8, Tremec 5-speed, and vintage looks with upgraded power and comfort.
A beautifully restored and upgraded 1968 Mercury Cougar XR-7 is turning heads with a combination of classic muscle car style and modern driving enhancements. This restomod build boasts a high-performance Blueprint 347 Stroker V8 engine mated to a Tremec five-speed manual transmission, delivering vintage appeal with far greater capability than stock.
The heart of the build is the Blueprint 347 cubic-inch Ford stroker motor, topped with aluminum heads and breathing through a Holley 670 CFM carburetor. Paired with an aluminum radiator, the engine is tuned for both reliability and performance. Power is delivered to the rear wheels through a Ford 8-inch POSI rear end with a 3.75:1 gear ratio, offering a strong launch and confident traction.
This Cougar doesn’t just go fast—it’s also built to drive comfortably. Four-wheel disc brakes provide modern stopping power, while power steering and air conditioning ensure an enjoyable experience whether cruising city streets or attending weekend shows.
The car's exterior wears a distinctive teal finish with a black vinyl roof, highlighting its XR-7 luxury roots while giving it unmistakable road presence. Complementing the look are 17-inch American Racing Torq Thrust wheels wrapped in performance rubber, giving it a period-correct aesthetic with modern stance and grip.
Inside, a clean black leather interior provides both refinement and comfort. While retaining the original XR-7 dashboard layout, the cabin has been updated to suit the enhanced performance under the hood.
This 1968 Cougar XR-7 restomod offers the best of both worlds: timeless 1960s styling and modern mechanicals that make it ready for both the show circuit and spirited driving. It’s a prime example of how to reimagine a muscle car icon without losing its soul.