The ephemeron called Merkur was apparent to the automobile
industry for only a short while. It was not even one of the movers and
shakers that would have caused a thousand tumults. The impact it had to
so many people, however, is undeniable. There are those who would not
give up the car that caught their fancy without the slightest bit of
effort. The name itself might be strange, but Merkur is actually the
German word for Mercury. The vehicle itself is a captive import of
Mercury, meaning it was produced by Ford but sold under a different
name to increase domestic competitiveness.
Only
two models were sold under Merkur – the Merkur XR4Ti and the Merkur
Scorpio. The Merkur XR4Ti is the United States market version of the
European Ford Sierra. Because of the power of its turbocharged 2.3 L
SOHC engine, it came to be considered by some as one of the best cars
of 1985. The large bi-plane spoiler it dons is one of its
distinguishing features, lending it a look that says something about
its power and aggression.
The Merkur Scorpio is the United States market version of the European
Ford Scorpio. It is a mid-size luxury sedan with fabulous handling and
ride.
The
engine is a 2.9 L V-6, a tough equipment that equals those in Ford
Ranger Pickups. The Scorpio’s interior is immense, and many attest to
the fact that it is one of the most modern and best-looking cars
around. Although Ford has put the production of Merkur models to a
halt, several Merkur vehicles can still be seen cruising around. They
are maintained by those who believe that Merkur is one of the best cars
ever. Parts can also be found easily whenever needed.
Those
who own Merkur cars would not have problems whenever they need new
equipment for their cars. They say that some good things never last.
Merkur models have ceased to be in the limelight, but this is not
absolute. Merkur models still exist because there will always be those
who love them enough to never give up the ghost.