Ford Motor Company had a habit of turning the most mundane of vehicles into hotrods. Taurus SHO, Thunderbird Super Coupe, SVT Contour and of course this guy. The infamous 2003-04 Mercury Marauder.
There was talk of supercharged convertible version at one point, but that was quickly tabled. What did come to pass was a 302 horsepower 32 valve 4.6L engine that delivered over 300 pound feet of torque through a revised 4R75W 4-speed auto trans. In fact, it would haul this two-ton (plus) beast to 60mph in just 7.5 seconds and pass the lights in the quarter mile at 91 mph in just 15 seconds.
And guess Watt (pun intended)! It would turn a corner without rolling over for a belly rub. A Watts link rear axle, Tokico shocks and air springs in the rear with more Tokicos up front actually made for a spirited driving experience!
With just over 7,000 examples built in a two year period, they’re getting rare. You can find them, but you’ll pay for it! While “book” says they should be a $6,000 collectable, you’ll be hard pressed to find one with less than 100k on the clock for $14,000-$16,000.
If you’re lucky enough to own one, J&L Oil Separator Co. has added engine protection for you! Take a peek!