Ditched Concept Car was almost LOST FOREVER

This 1956 Mercury Turnpike Cruiser XM-100 concept car was neglected for many years until one man decided to take on this monumental restoration. "XM" stands for eXperimental Mercury and you'll see a lot of that in this crazy car. We're back at the American Muscle Car Museum in Melbourne, FL to see the rarest Mercury prototype show car ever!

0:00 - American Muscle Car Museum
0:29 - 1956 Mercury Turnpike Cruiser Concept Car
3:14 - Van-O-Rama
3:42 - The Restoration
5:45 - Hidden Roof Wings
6:40 - Interior
9:40 - Engine
11:50 - Startup and Drive
13:30 - More Restoration
14:33 - Opening the T-Top
17:18 - Chassis Pictures
18:25 - It's a Crowd Pleaser

Additional photos and video by Tom Maruska and American Muscle Car Museum.

#conceptcar #conceptcars #classiccar #automobile #ford #experimental #ford #prototype #1950s

[johna]

Only a hopeless romantic with deep pockets and/or supreme fabrication skills, determination, resourcefulness, and perseverance would look upon that "before" picture, remain undaunted, and actually bring it back. Just re-producing all those contoured glass panels is a major achievement. Huge respect for Tom and his ilk. And that gorgeous coral and creme livery? MWAH!!!

[shadow]

A national treasure! An amazing restoration story, the guy who did the restoration, a genius!

[busybee]

This is more than just a car. It's a stunning work of art.

[TheArkDoc]

I think I smiled the entire time I watched this. What an amazing restoration job and how nice this car still exists.

[robbchastain]

Surely that is one of the most significant concept cars ever, looks like a custom car for the turnpike and a stock car for the track. And so awesome that the gent who restored this Mercury wants everyone to see and hear and marvel over it, curious that many collectors buy cars only to turn them into coffee tables. And the sound of this, wow, somebody in the fabrication shop was a speed mechanic, lol.

[jimbol]

For some reason, I have this childhood craving for one of those 50/50 popsicles😊

[christophermay]

Dennis and his team of friends have knocked another one out of the done video

[lehman]

I always wanted to see this car in person, my father did get the oportunity and was always talking about it. Beautiful ! We had a Mercury Park Lane and a Commuter wagon in 1957. Tom Maruska always restored masterpieces, such a special Gentleman! Thanks

[BlueShankPEI]

That thing sure has an outrageous roof line! And to think the glass was hand made - amazing!

[briang]

WOW ! Can't help but think that my father helped develop this beauty. Even if his only contribution was to buy a 1953 Mercury, new in 53. The stock Turnpike Cruiser is Super. This concept vehicle and outstanding restoration is a top 5 ... 50's car ... Thanks Dennis

[CreatorCade]

I love concept cars they are truly one of a kind cars.

[maddmaxx]

Good looking car and the interior is absolutely gorgeous 😎

[RonWilson-qj]

My friends Ray and Al Sabo owned this car in early 80s. We did some disassembly and made a mold for the windshield and the upper tailites. They sold it to the guy in California. Delighted to see it done!

[floydt]

Just an amazing car, thanks for showing us!

[evalonious]

Honestly one of the coolest cars I've seen on this channel so far. I want one!😢😂❤

[gphilipc]

My Parents had a Big Merc Station Wagon that vintage (1957), Air Conditioned, the biggest V8. We made a trip to LA, California from SE Louisiana. I remember we had to stop at some point on the way back home and buy two new rear tires. We also did Pikes Peak, Grand Canyon, Carlsbad Caverns, Meteor Crater, Painted Desert, Mesa Verde, and Dinosaur Mountain in that car on that same trip, It was a dream trip for me at 9 YO.

[radioguy]

The story of the re - creation is one of true determination and congratulations well deserved. great video Dennis and thanks to the current owner.

[MarkFries-on]

That is a beautiful car!!! Incredible restoration!!!

[rexmyers]

My father (a B-25 bomber pilot during WWII) bought a brand new 1956 Mercury (with factory air conditioning). I was 13 and thought it was the coolest car on the road. But, when the ‘57s came out I was blown away with the styling. Now I understand how it came to be.

Sure brought back memories.

[David-uuoj]

That is an absolutely incredible restoration, period.