NCS Garage January Spotlight: Tim Brickhouse’s 1969 Cougar XR7

I stumbled upon a 1969 Mercury Cougar XR7 convertible on Craigslist in January 2011, boasting only 64,000 original miles and retaining its 1979 Massachusetts inspection sticker. The seller, whose father purchased the car in 1972, recounted its sentimental history. His father’s illness in 1978 led to the car being stored for over 30 years. In 2008, the son took ownership but struggled with the restoration.

In 2015, I initiated a three-year restoration. The car underwent a complete disassembly, media blasting, and epoxy priming. Structural components were replaced, and I handled the painting myself. Steering, suspension, driveline, and exhaust underwent meticulous rebuilding, except for the transmission, a C6 Automatic, which was sent out. The engine, a 390 GT, and the powertrain received dedicated attention.

Interior updates included duplicated leather seat patterns, new leather surfaces, cushions, and carpet. The car features Power Top, Air Conditioning, Power Windows, Tilt/Tilt-Away Steering Wheel, Leather Interior, Power Steering, and Power Brakes.

Today, this 1969 Mercury Cougar XR7 convertible stands as a testament to meticulous restoration, surpassing its original condition in 1969.

NCS Garage January Spotlight: Craig Cannon’s 1978 Corvette

This Vette is a 1978 model that I purchased in 1980. I had it customized in 1984, featuring flared side panels, a high-rise hood, fiberglass front and rear bumpers, and a seamlessly integrated rear spoiler, eliminating any visible lines. Beneath the hood lies a powerful 388 cubic inch stroker engine, complemented by an updated 373 rear end for faster acceleration. Equipped with Hooker headers and side pipes, Cragar S/S wheels with 50 series tires all around, this classic ride is a true showcase of customized excellence. The vibrant paint job showcases my personally formulated colors in PPG Deltron with D894 Global clear, adding a unique touch.

NCS Garage January Spotlight: Mike Admire’s 1968 Mustang Coupe

Mike Admire just revived a piece of personal history restoring his son’s high school ride – a 1968 Mustang Coupe. I’ve encountered so many folks who long for their awesome high school cars, and I was determined to ensure he got to keep his. Now, at 34, his car is not just a throwback; it looks even better than it did back in 1968!

Under the hood, we cranked it up with a 347 Stoker and Holley Sniper fuel injection. Paired it with a Performance Automatic AOD Transmission and Quick Performance, 3:55 gears for that extra kick.

Performance meets style with 4-wheel disc brakes, new wiring thanks to American Autowire, and a tech upgrade with Dakota Digital gauges. Topped it off with a fresh coat of PPG Deltron DBC paint and clear with PPG Vibrance 5700.