Was Mercury part of Ford?
The Mercury brand, known for its mid-range vehicles, was indeed part of the Ford Motor Company. Established in 1938, Mercury was created to fill the gap between Ford's mainstream models and the luxury Lincoln brand. This article delves into the history of Mercury, its relationship with Ford, and its eventual discontinuation.
The Origins of Mercury
Mercury was introduced by Ford as a response to the growing demand for more upscale vehicles during the late 1930s. The brand aimed to attract customers who desired a more luxurious experience than what Ford offered, but at a more affordable price than Lincoln.
Mercury's Role within Ford
Throughout its history, Mercury served as a vital part of Ford's strategy to capture a broader market segment. Here are some key points about its role:
- Market Positioning: Mercury vehicles were designed to offer a blend of performance, style, and comfort, appealing to middle-class consumers.
- Shared Platforms: Many Mercury models were built on Ford platforms, allowing for cost-effective production while maintaining distinct styling and features.
- Brand Identity: Mercury developed its own identity with unique marketing campaigns and model names, differentiating itself from Ford and Lincoln.
The Discontinuation of Mercury
Despite its historical significance, Mercury faced challenges in the changing automotive landscape. By the late 2000s, Ford decided to discontinue the Mercury brand as part of a broader restructuring effort. The last Mercury vehicle was produced in 2010, marking the end of an era for the brand.
Conclusion
In summary, Mercury was indeed a part of Ford, serving as a bridge between the more affordable Ford models and the luxury Lincoln line. While the brand is no longer in existence, its legacy continues to be remembered by automotive enthusiasts and former owners alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
Was Mercury a Ford company?
Mercury was a brand of medium-priced automobiles that was produced by American manufacturer Ford Motor Company between the 1939 and 2011 motor years.
Who bought out Mercury boat motors?
the Brunswick Corporation
Following Kiekhaefer's death in 1983 in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, his son Fred purchased Aeromarine and later sold it to the Brunswick Corporation, bringing all of Elmer Carl Kiekhaefer's innovations under one roof. Today, Mercury Marine remains a powerful entity of the Brunswick Corporation.
What companies did Ford own?
Ford now encompasses two brands: Ford and Lincoln. Ford once owned 5 other luxury brands: Volvo, Land Rover, Jaguar, Aston Martin, and Mercury. Over time, those brands were sold to other companies and Mercury was discontinued.
Did Ford make a Mercury truck?
Ford Trucks - Mercury Trucks. Right after World War II, when Ford Motor Company of Canada setup the Ford/Monarch and Mercury/Lincoln dealership networks, a new truck line was established. All Mercury dealers had Mercury trucks to sell.
Will Ford bring Mercury back?
Road presence The sculpted body size sides. Along with the sharp lines and curves.
Is Mercury Outboards owned by Ford?
Mercury automobiles were a now discontinued division of Ford Motor Company. Mercury Marine was founded by Carl Kiekhaefer as Kiekhaefer Mercury. In1961, Mercury became a division of Brunswick Corporation. Some of their product lines include Mercury, Mercury Racing, MerCruiser, and Mariner outboards.
Is MerCruiser a Ford or Chevy?
Mercury Marine is a marine engine division of Brunswick Corporation headquartered in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. The main product line is outboard motors. It also produces the MerCruiser line of sterndrives and inboard engines, as well as a lineup of electric outboard motors.
Is Mercury Grand Marquis made by Ford?
Ford manufactured the Grand Marquis, alongside the Mercury Marquis, Mercury Marauder, Ford (LTD) Crown Victoria, and (beginning in 2007) the Lincoln Town Car, at two facilities: the St. Louis Assembly Plant in Hazelwood, Missouri (1979–1985) and the St. Thomas Assembly Plant in Southwold, Ontario, Canada (1986–2011).
Why did Ford eliminate Mercury?
Ford discontinued the Mercury brand in 2011 as sales dropped to less than 1 percent of US sales share. Ford recently announced the end of sales of most of their passenger cars due to shifting sales trends. Again Ford is building what sells, Trucks, SUVs and Crossovers.
Is Mercury the luxury brand of Ford?
Until Ford discontinued the brand in 2011, Mercury sat in the middle of the company's lineup—fancier than Ford but not as luxurious as Lincoln. The brand had its heyday from the 1950s through the 1980s, with cars like the Cougar, Monterey, Montclair, and Turnpike Cruiser still commonplace at classic car shows.
