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1949 Mercury “Lead Sled” Custom Coupe

A chopped, lowered, and expertly modified Mercury coupe with frenched headlights — this vehicle stands as the quintessential representation of the “Lead Sled,” a classic design that came to define American custom car culture during the vibrant and innovative era of the 1950s. Among the hot rod builders of that time, there was a unique artistic vision that transformed the stock Mercury into a rolling piece of automotive sculpture, a testament to creativity and craftsmanship. Key modifications such as the dramatically chopped roofline, the elegant shaving of door handles, the iconic frenched headlights, and the meticulously lowered stance not only altered the vehicle’s silhouette but also became integral elements of what would be recognized as the DNA of custom culture in American automobiles.

In this realm of sleek lines and refined aesthetics, each modification was not merely for performance but a bold statement of individuality and style. The Radcliff Collection proudly features a stunning maroon “sled” that embodies the essence of the rebellious postwar spirit, which resonated deeply in the hearts of car enthusiasts during that era. In this time, it was not just about speed or horsepower; rather, style and visual impact took center stage, allowing owners to express their unique identities and visions through their vehicles. This Mercury coupe, with its captivating design and rich history, serves as a vivid reminder of an age where custom culture thrived and left an indelible mark on the automotive landscape.

Car NameMercury Eight Custom “Lead Sled”Production Year1949ManufacturerMercury (Ford Motor Company)Origin CountryUSABody Style2-door chopped coupeEngine TypeV8 flathead or small-block swaps (varied by custom)Horsepower (HP)~100–200 hp (depending on engine build)Top Speed~90–120 mph (varies)Transmission3-speed manual or automatic swapInitial Sale Price (Est.)$2,000 (stock)Value Today (Approx.)$60,000–$150,000 (period custom)Units Produced / RarityMass-produced stock; customs are unique, hand-builtKnown ColorsCustom lacquer finishesNotable Owners / ProvenanceRadcliff CollectionShare

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