Mercury Monterey (3rd generation)
The 'Big M' that brought space-age styling and Lincoln power to the mid-range market.
- Power
- 255 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 10.5 s
- Top speed
- 110 mph
- Est. value
- $12k–$45k
About the Mercury Monterey
The 1957 Mercury Monterey marked a radical departure for the brand, introducing a completely bespoke chassis and body that moved away from its Ford-based roots. Its 'Dream-Car Design' featured distinctive V-shaped taillights, a concave grille, and a lower, wider stance that epitomised the late-fifties obsession with jet-age aesthetics. Under the hood, the 312 cubic-inch 'Safety-Surge' V8 provided ample power for effortless cruising, though the car was increasingly positioned as a more premium offering. Today, it is celebrated for its unique styling cues and its role in Mercury's brief attempt to challenge the luxury market directly.
Mercury Monterey specs
The Mercury Monterey produces 255 bhp (190 kW) and 461 Nm (340 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 10.5 seconds and has a top speed of 110 mph (177 km/h).
| Make | Mercury |
|---|---|
| Model | Monterey |
| Generation | Third Generation (3rd generation) |
| Trim | 5.1 |
| Years | 1957–1958 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Coupé |
| Country | United States |
| Original price | About $2,600 when new |
| Engine | 5.1-litre V8 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 5,113 cc (5.1 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 255 bhp (190 kW) at 4,600 rpm |
| Torque | 461 Nm (340 lb-ft) |
| 0–60 mph | 10.5 s |
| Top speed | 110 mph (177 km/h) |
| Transmission | 3-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,776 kg (3,915 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 144 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 $12,000 – $45,000 (about £9,000 – £34,000).
Its original price when new was about $2,600.
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 32 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
- Early 1957 models featured two headlights, but Mercury switched to a quad-headlight setup mid-year to keep pace with industry trends.
- The 1957 Monterey was the first Mercury to feature a front-hinged hood, a safety feature designed to prevent it from flying open at speed.
- Mercury was the official pace car for the 1957 Indianapolis 500, using a specially prepared Monterey convertible.
