1965 Mercury Comet VIN Verification

INTRODUCTION

The 1965 Mercury Comet was a compact car that combined stylish design with a range of performance options. It featured updated styling cues, including vertical headlights and a more squared-off body, aligning it with contemporary Mercury aesthetics. The Comet was available in various trims, catering to both economy-minded drivers and performance enthusiasts. 

HISTORY & ORIGINS

Originally introduced in 1960, the Comet was initially a standalone marque before becoming part of the Mercury lineup in 1962. By 1965, the Comet had evolved into a well-regarded compact car, sharing its platform with the Ford Falcon. The 1965 model year featured significant styling updates and expanded performance options, solidifying its place in Mercury’s lineup. 

ENGINE & PERFORMANCE OPTIONS

The 1965 Comet offered a range of engines:

• 200 cu in (3.3 L) Inline-6: 120 hp @ 4,400 rpm

• 289 cu in (4.7 L) V8:

  • 2-barrel carburetor: 200 hp @ 4,400 rpm

  • 4-barrel carburetor: 225 hp

  • High-Performance (Hi-Po) version: 271 hp (available in Cyclone models)

Transmission options included a 3-speed manual, 4-speed manual, and a Multi-Drive automatic. 

DESIGN & FEATURES

The 1965 Comet featured a redesigned exterior with vertical headlights and a squared-off body. Interior amenities varied by trim level, with higher trims offering features like bucket seats, padded dashboards, and upgraded upholstery. 

TRIM LEVELS & VARIANTS

The Comet was available in several trims:

• 202: Base model with minimal trim

• 404: Mid-level trim with additional chrome accents

• Caliente: Top-tier trim featuring enhanced interior and exterior features

• Cyclone: Performance-oriented model with the Hi-Po 289 V8 engine

Body styles included 2-door and 4-door sedans, 2-door hardtops, convertibles, and station wagons. 

SAFETY & TECHNOLOGY

Standard safety features were basic, including seat belts and padded dashboards in higher trims. Optional features included power brakes, power steering, and AM/FM radios. 

FUEL ECONOMY & EFFICIENCY

While exact fuel economy figures are scarce, the inline-6 engine offered better fuel efficiency, making it suitable for economy-conscious drivers. The V8 engines, especially the Hi-Po version, prioritized performance over fuel economy.

MARKET COMPARISON

In 1965, the Comet competed with other compact cars like the Ford Falcon, Chevrolet Nova, and Plymouth Valiant. The Cyclone variant positioned the Comet as a contender in the burgeoning muscle car market, rivaling models like the Pontiac GTO and Chevrolet Chevelle SS.

PRICING

Original base prices ranged from approximately $2,110 for the 202 sedan to $2,700 for the Villager station wagon. The Cyclone model started around $2,683. 

NOTABLE AWARDS & ACCOLADES

While the 1965 Comet didn’t receive major awards, the Cyclone’s performance credentials, including its participation in endurance runs like the Daytona 100, bolstered its reputation among performance enthusiasts.