37. 1969 Mercury Cougar Eliminator
Mercury finally got its entry into the muscle car market in 1967. It was considered more upscale, and drew some of it’s styling from the European Jaguar brand. But the 1969 model of the Cougar takes the cake.
Based on the Ford Mustang, the Cougar was longer and wider, and even heavier in 1969. But that didn’t stop this pony car from having some serious power. The Eliminator came standard with the four-barrel version of the Windsor 351 CID V-8, which pumped out 290 HP. But the engine that really shined in the ’69 Cougar was the 428 Cobra Jet, with the option for Ram Air. Thanks to the extra wide wheel base, it had superior grip. The Eliminator was also available with a Drag Pak and an oil cooler. This pony could run the track in 14.1 seconds at 103 mph, and went from 0-60 mph in 5.6 seconds – more speed that you can shake a stick at!
A blacked-out grille, side stripes, and front and rear spoilers gave it a menacing look and it even came with an array of unique exterior colors. The Cougar turned a few heads with the Eliminator package, and they’re still spinning!
Engine: 428 Cobra Jet Ram Air V-8 – Top speed: 129 mph
Quarter mile time: 14.1 seconds – 0-60 mph time: 5.6 seconds