1947 Mercury Eight

This 1947 Mercury 79M Woodie Wagon retains its original wood body and flathead V8 with three-speed manual transmission and Columbia Overdrive unit. The indicated 81k miles are believed accurate, and the car is reported to be largely original apart from a recovered front seat, new vinyl roof, and repainted metal bodywork. The seller has used it in parades and shows such as the Rodeo Concours as part of a large private collection. It is sold with yellow California plates from 1947 and a clean California title. 1947 Mercurys were restyled pre-war models before the newer production cars debuted in 1948 for the 1949 model year. These were distinguished from Fords with unique front end styling. The rear bodywork is rendered in fiddleback maple, a wood often used for musical instruments. The seller says the wood on this wagon is original, and benefits from new clear coat for preservation and appearance. Some flaws are noted in the wood but the overall condition looks quite presentable. Metal hardware appears to have held up well over 70 years. The vinyl roof has been replaced. The metal bodywork has been repainted, and the quality of the finish appears uniform with a nice shine throughout. 1947 saw the addition of the Mercury nameplate on the side of the hood. The interior remains largely original, though the front seat has been re-covered. Wood surfaces retain a good finish and show wear consistent with their age. The desirable Columbia Overdrive makes this a better driver on the road and was added during the seller’s ownership. The stock Philco radio is still mounted under the dash, though it is not currently working. A split is present in the middle row bench seat. The slatted wood headliner shows well, with the interior padding of the vinyl roof visible in the gaps. This car is equipped with three rows of seating, and access to the cargo area is through a split-folding rear tailgate. The 239 cubic inch flathead V8 retains its tall air cleaner and bath-style oil filter. It was rebuilt before the seller acquired the car and is said to run strong and quietly. The underside appears clean and straight, with some surface corrosion evident. The rear suspension is a transverse leaf spring. Note the two-speed Columbia Overdrive incorporated into the rear axle. This Woodie has been with the seller for ten years, and has been driven a few thousand miles during that time with periodic service. Filed under: woodie, woodie wagon, woody, woody wagon