The Evolution of The Mercury Mystique

The Mercury Mystique is a line of mid-size cars that was produced by Mercury, a division of Ford Motor Company, from 1995 to 2000. During its production run, the Mystique underwent significant changes, with various models and trim levels being offered to cater to different customer needs and preferences.

In its first year of production, 1995, the Mercury Mystique was available in two main models: the base model and the GS. The base model came with a 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder engine, producing 125 horsepower, while the GS model was equipped with a 2.5-liter V6 engine, producing 170 horsepower. Both models came with a five-speed manual transmission as standard, with a four-speed automatic transmission available as an option.

In 1996, Mercury introduced the LS model, which sat at the top of the Mystique lineup. The LS model came with the same 2.5-liter V6 engine as the GS, but added more luxury features, such as leather seats, a premium sound system, and alloy wheels. The LS model also came with a four-speed automatic transmission as standard.

For the 1997 model year, Mercury made some significant changes to the Mystique lineup. The base model was discontinued, and the GS model became the new base model. The GS model was also available with a new 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder engine, producing 150 horsepower. The LS model continued to be offered, with the same 2.5-liter V6 engine and luxury features.

In 1998, Mercury introduced the Sport model, which was available with the 2.5-liter V6 engine and a five-speed manual transmission. The Sport model also came with unique exterior styling, including a rear spoiler and alloy wheels. The GS and LS models continued to be offered, with the same engine options and features as before.

For the 1999 model year, Mercury made some minor changes to the Mystique lineup. The GS model was available with a new 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder engine, producing 130 horsepower, while the LS model continued to come with the 2.5-liter V6 engine. The Sport model was discontinued, but the GS model was available with a new Sport package, which added some of the same exterior styling features as the previous Sport model.

In its final year of production, 2000, the Mercury Mystique was available in two main models: the GS and the LS. The GS model came with the 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder engine, producing 130 horsepower, while the LS model came with the 2.5-liter V6 engine, producing 170 horsepower. Both models came with a four-speed automatic transmission as standard, with a five-speed manual transmission available as an option on the GS model.

Throughout its production run, the Mercury Mystique was also available with a range of optional features, including anti-lock brakes, traction control, and a sunroof. The Mystique also came with a range of standard safety features, including dual airbags and a rear child seat anchor.

In terms of sales, the Mercury Mystique was a moderate success, with over 700,000 units sold during its production run. However, the Mystique was ultimately discontinued in 2000, due to declining sales and increased competition in the mid-size car market. The Mystique was replaced by the Mercury Cougar, which was a more powerful and feature-packed car.

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Overall, the Mercury Mystique was a solid mid-size car that offered a range of models and trim levels to cater to different customer needs and preferences. While it may not have been the most exciting or innovative car on the market, the Mystique was a reliable and practical choice for many buyers. Its legacy continues to be felt in the automotive world, with many of its design and engineering features influencing later Mercury models.

In conclusion, the Mercury Mystique was a significant model in the history of the Mercury brand, offering a range of models and trim levels to cater to different customer needs and preferences. From its introduction in 1995 to its discontinuation in 2000, the Mystique underwent significant changes, with various models and trim levels being offered to keep up with changing market trends and customer preferences. While it may not have been the most successful or iconic Mercury model, the Mystique remains an important part of the brand’s history and legacy.

Here is a summary of the models and trim levels offered throughout the years:

• 1995:
  • Base model (2.0-liter inline-four cylinder engine)
  • GS model (2.5-liter V6 engine)
• 1996:
  • GS model (2.5-liter V6 engine)
  • LS model (2.5-liter V6 engine, luxury features)
• 1997:
  • GS model (2.0-liter inline-four cylinder engine, 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder engine)
  • LS model (2.5-liter V6 engine, luxury features)
• 1998:
  • GS model (2.0-liter inline-four cylinder engine, 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder engine)
  • LS model (2.5-liter V6 engine, luxury features)
  • Sport model (2.5-liter V6 engine, unique exterior styling)
• 1999:
  • GS model (2.0-liter inline-four cylinder engine, 2.5-liter V6 engine)
  • LS model (2.5-liter V6 engine, luxury features)
• 2000:
  • GS model (2.0-liter inline-four cylinder engine)
  • LS model (2.5-liter V6 engine, luxury features)

Note: The models and trim levels listed above are not exhaustive, and some special edition models and packages may not be included.