1962 Mercury Convertible

Q: Greg, I’m trying to find some information on my 1962 Mercury Monterey convertible. I subscribe to three different books, yet I have not seen any advertised for the past three years. I have enclosed a photo of my car. It is model Z65 with a serial number of 2Z65Z528724. I also found a “CN” for the body. Can you please help me with any information? Also, what do you feel it is worth? — Earl B., New Castle, Ind.

A: Earl, first and foremost your car sure looks great from the photo you sent. The first number in the VIN, “2,” is the year, 1962; “Z” stands for built in St. Louis, Mo.; the “65” stands for Monterey Custom Convertible, of which 5,489 were built with a base price of $3,222; the next “Z” stands for a 390-inch V-8 with a four-barrel carburetor; and the last six digits are the production number sequence.

That model number Z65 repeats itself as explained above, describing either a 390 V-8 four-barrel convertible or a convertible built in St. Louis. I couldn’t find anything on the CN, but would guess it has to do with the paint and interior colors. Also, your car weighs 3,938 pounds and rides on a 120-inch wheelbase. Its current approximate value, based on the photo you sent, would be in the neighborhood of $10,000 in good condition to $14,000 excellent condition. If it’s truly show condition, look for about $15,500.

Hope this all helps, Earl.