Mercury Monterey (2nd generation)
A mid-century masterpiece of chrome and Y-block V8 power.
- Power
- 188 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 11.5 s
- Top speed
- 99 mph
- Est. value
- $13k–$55k
About the Mercury Monterey
The 1955 Mercury Monterey represented a significant redesign for the brand, adopting a longer, lower, and wider stance that epitomised 1950s American optimism. It was powered by the new 292 cubic-inch 'Y-block' V8, an engine shared with the contemporary Ford Thunderbird, providing a substantial performance boost over previous flathead designs. While the new Montclair took over as the flagship, the Monterey remained the volume leader, distinguished by its 'chubby cheeks' vertical taillights and a wraparound windshield. Collectors value the Monterey for its distinctive 'canted' headlight hoods and the smooth, torque-rich delivery of its overhead-valve V8.
Mercury Monterey specs
The Mercury Monterey produces 188 bhp (140 kW) and 372 Nm (274 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 11.5 seconds and has a top speed of 99 mph (160 km/h).
| Make | Mercury |
|---|---|
| Model | Monterey |
| Generation | Second Generation (2nd generation) |
| Trim | 4.8 |
| Years | 1955–1956 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Coupé |
| Country | United States |
| Original price | About $2,500 when new |
| Engine | 4.8-litre Y-block V8 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 4,785 cc (4.8 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 188 bhp (140 kW) at 4,400 rpm |
| Torque | 372 Nm (274 lb-ft) |
| 0–60 mph | 11.5 s |
| Top speed | 99 mph (160 km/h) |
| Transmission | 3-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,587 kg (3,499 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 118 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Mercury Monterey worth?
A typical Mercury Monterey is estimated to be worth $13,000 – $55,000 (about £9,400 – £41,000).
Its original price when new was about $2,500.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Mercury Monterey rarity in CarSpot
The Mercury Monterey is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 25 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Mercury Monterey fun facts
- The 1955 Monterey's front-end styling, including the hooded headlights, was directly inspired by the 1954 Mercury XM-800 concept car.
- Mercury introduced an independent ball-joint front suspension in 1955, significantly improving handling and ride quality over the previous kingpin setup.
- The 292 V8 engine was available in two compression ratios for 1955: a 7.6:1 version for the Monterey and a higher 8.5:1 version for the flagship Montclair.
