That R code 63 427 black Merc was brand new in that picture. Picture was taken in front of my folks house in Peru, IL. at Easter of 1963. It was-as ALL 427 Ford/Mercs a 4 speed. Also had 4:11 rear gears.The 427 package came with HD suspension and Kelsey Hays 15" x 5.5 wide instead of 14" X 5.5"rims.That Monterey post sedan was special ordered for me. One of 58 427 Mercs in 63. The only 2 dr.sedan. A basic entry level bench seat car-radio delete. Price was $3700. The basic 63 Merc would come with a 390 2V 3 speed stick. $2900. Then ad the 427 Package of $695.

I took delivery March 23rd. 1963. Very early 427. I had an insider advantage with the dealer. Look at order sheet. May need to e-mail to self and blow up to read.

More trivia. The picture with my girlfriend and the big Merc in background-noteher 1960 Sunliner. It had a 360HP 352 and 3 speed stick.

I was 22 years old in 1963 and working in Chicago Burbs during the week and home to run with my friends on weekends. Great days. Making great money. Lot of fun.

1963 was the prime of my street and back road racing days. I ran cars travling toHammond, Ind to Quad Cities. Sometimes I would go there-sometimes they would come to Peru, Il. looking for me. Just like gunfighters! LOL!

I had owned many diff. carsfrom 1957 to 1969 doingthis type of racing. I had all diff brands. Even Chevys. This big black Merc was my favorite. In 67 I had a black Plymouth GTX that did very well also.

In July 1969 I started my Organized Drag Racing Career at sanctioned Drag Strips. See: www.animaljimracing.com