The famed Ringbrothers car customization outfit has unveiled an impressive restomod version of a 1968 Mercury Cougar.
Originally intended to debut at the pandemic-cancelled 2020 SEMA Show, the modified Cougar has been allowed out to prowl.
It marks the first time the Wisconsin-based company has built a Cougar, and the luxury pony car packs plenty of performance.
This Coyote is anything but ugly
Nestling behind the hidden headlamps is a 5.0-liter Ford Coyote V-8. As the engine used in the modern Mustang, it provides a neat link to the classic Mercury.
The new Coyote crate motor offers a hefty 460 horsepower, combined with 420 lb-ft of torque. That’s substantially more power than any Mercury Cougar would have left the factory with, beating even the ultra-rare GT-E model.
Ringbrothers has also installed a 21st century transmission in the Cougar. Ford’s latest ten-speed automatic gearbox, taken from an F-150 Raptor pickup, allows for shifting via paddles.
Turning green with envy?
Other new components include a bespoke Flowmaster stainless steel exhaust system. Intended to give the Coyote engine a truly ‘aggressive growl’, it includes custom headers fabricated by Ringbrothers.
HRE Series C1 C103 wheels, measuring 18-inches at the front and 19-inches at the rear, offer a serious stance. This is enhanced by box-fresh DSE Quadra-Link suspension, while upgraded Baer brakes increase stopping power.
Extensive restoration work was undertaken on the Cougar’s shell, including the fitment of replacement floor pans. A new transmission tunnel was added, and the exterior badging and grille were updated.
The refreshed bodywork was painted with BASF Ford Augusta Green Metallic, a deep hue that contrasts with the luxurious interior.
Take a trip to Cougar Town
Ringbrothers has developed a strong following from restmod enthusiasts, due to its attention to detail. Revealing a new car at the annual SEMA Show has helped win the company new followers, and numerous awards.
Mike Ring, co-owner of Ringbrothers, commented that whilst they “couldn’t bring the car to the SEMA Show, we hope it can be shown to the public soon”. As the first Cougar built by the firm, Mike added that the process was “fun” and that he enjoyed working “with new shapes and coming up with new ideas”.
“We put our heart into each car we build, and this Cougar is no exception,” said Ringbrothers co-owner, Jim Ring. “The finished product is mild and classy, yet any enthusiast instantly knows it’s not stock. I imagine this is what Mercury designers would have come up with if they were building the Cougar today.”
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