Have you ever wondered about cars with a true secret history? Well, here is a prime example that demands attention. This modified 1969 Mercury Cyclone 427 Side-Oiler carries a unique story from its very first day. The car was originally delivered to a dealership in North Burnaby, British Columbia. Crucially, it is believed a Mercury dealership fitted it with a potent 427ci Ford FE side-oiler V8. The engine was reportedly supplied by the famed racing firm Holman & Moody. This combination makes it a fascinating piece of muscle car lore. The current owner acquired this exceptional vehicle in July 2023.
Competition Orange and Ram-Air Style
The car’s appearance is immediately striking, coated in vibrant Competition Orange paint. Black accent stripes run along the sides, providing a sharp contrast. The exterior includes a ram-air induction hood with black accents. Exterior features like quad headlights and bright trim complete the classic look. We see chrome bumpers and a remote-adjustable driver-side mirror. The driver door does show a slight mark just below the stripes. Additionally, the chrome trim over its wheel opening is slightly dinged. Stone chips and other small imperfections are visible upon close inspection.
Modern Handling and Braking Upgrades
This Cyclone rides on classic styled steel 15-inch wheels. These are fitted with Mercury-logo center caps. The wheels wear BFGoodrich Radial T/A tires for solid road holding. The tires measure 215/70 at the front and 255/60 in the rear. Handling received an update in 2024 with the installation of electric power steering. Braking is now handled by power-assisted four-wheel disc brakes. Rear disc brakes were also adapted in 2024 for better stopping power. These modifications ensure a more confident and modern driving experience.
H3 A Refined Black Vinyl Interior
Inside the cabin, you find front bucket seats and a rear bench. They are upholstered in simple black vinyl. This material choice matches the color-coordinated dashboard and door panels. The interior also features woodgrain trim for a touch of class. Appointments include a full center console and front headrests. The car has three-point front seatbelts for safety. A major comfort addition is the Vintage Air climate control system. This desirable system was installed in early 2025. A retro-style push-button stereo provides musical entertainment.
Gauges and Instrumentation
The driver faces a two-spoke steering wheel featuring a horn ring. Behind it, a 120-mph speedometer sits next to a 6k-rpm tachometer. A fuel-level gauge is also present in the dash cluster. The five-digit odometer shows approximately 30,000 miles. Only about 300 of those miles were added under the current ownership. The seller mentions a small issue with the tachometer sticking past 3,000 rpm.
The Legendary 427 Side-Oiler V8 Engine
Now we focus on the heart of this special vehicle. The car features a powerful C5AE-H 427ci Ford FE side-oiler V8. This engine utilizes medium-riser C5AE-F cylinder heads. Machine work was performed on the engine in 2019 to maintain its top condition. Recent 2024 work included replacing the harmonic balancer and pulleys. New coolant hoses and a thermostat were also installed. This engine is further equipped with dual Holley carburetors. It also features a cast-iron intake manifold and an aluminum radiator. Holman Moody–branded finned rocker covers and air cleaner complete the look. Furthermore, a PerTronix ignition system was fitted in 2024.
Transmission and Drivetrain Details
Power is skillfully delivered to the rear wheels through a three-speed automatic transmission. This robust gearbox is a C6 unit according to the Marti report. A Traction-Lok limited-slip differential helps put the engine’s power to the pavement. The original warranty number indicates the car was built as a 390ci V8 model. However, the documentation from Holman & Moody confirms their role in supplying race-focused engines to dealerships during this period. This documentation adds depth to the car’s unique lineage.
This 1969 Mercury Cyclone 427 Side-Oiler is a fantastic blend of vintage style and documented high-performance modifications. It comes with a Deluxe Marti report and paperwork from Holman & Moody. This rare vehicle offers enthusiasts a chance to own a truly customized piece of muscle car history.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The information provided is based on market trends and personal opinions and should not be considered financial or investment advice. Readers should always conduct their own research and consult with a professional advisor before making any decisions.
Source & Details: bringatrailer.com
