Mercury Cyclone. 1970–1 (prod. 16,580). 2-door coupé. F/R, 302, 351, 429 in³ (V8 OHV). Last cars to wear the Cyclone name as an independent line and not a Comet derivative. Based on Ford Fairlane (1970–1), but with greater overall length, thanks to protruding “crosshairs” nose—an exaggeration of the Bunkie Knudsen noses seen on Fords. Better equipped than Fairlanes and Torinos, with more toned-down graphics and, nose aside, design features. Not quite notchback, not quite fastback—design was somewhere in between. Range-topping Cyclone Spoiler considered one of Mercury’s finest muscle cars, with 429 in³ standard (it was an option on the Torino Cobra). Cobra Jet and Super Cobra Jet for 1970; only Cobra Jet for 1971. The 351 was an option for 1970; standard for 1971, but with the tide turning against muscle cars, sales dwindled.

Manufacturing location: USA

Marque: Mercury | Model: Mercury Cyclone | Predecessor: Mercury Cyclone (1968–9) | Successor: Mercury Montego (1972–6)