The Mercury Bobcat, a rebadged version of the Ford Pinto, was a subcompact car produced by the Mercury division of Ford Motor Company from 1975 to 1980. While often overlooked, the Bobcat holds a unique place in automotive history. Understanding the nuances of each model year is crucial for collectors, restorers, and anyone considering owning this classic car.

Mercury Bobcat: Model Year Breakdown

Model Year Key Improvements/Changes Potential Issues/Concerns
1975 First year of production, available in hatchback and wagon body styles, standard 2.3L engine Early production quirks, concerns about Pinto-related safety issues (later addressed), limited availability of parts
1976 Minor cosmetic changes, improved emissions controls Continued concerns about Pinto-related safety issues, potential for rust
1977 Significant exterior restyling, including a new grille and taillights, improved interior features Potential for rust, especially in northern climates
1978 Further refinements to styling, introduction of a new Luxury Decor Group, optional V6 engine Potential for rust, V6 engine can suffer from timing chain issues
1979 Minor changes to trim and options, continued availability of the V6 engine Potential for rust, increasing difficulty in finding parts
1980 Final year of production, limited availability Potential for rust, scarcity of parts due to low production numbers

Detailed Explanations

1975: First Year of Production

The 1975 Mercury Bobcat marked Mercury's entry into the subcompact market. It was available as both a hatchback and a wagon, offering some versatility. The standard engine was a 2.3-liter four-cylinder, providing adequate but not exceptional performance. This year is significant for being the first, but it also carries the baggage of early production issues and the lingering shadow of Pinto-related safety concerns.

1976: Minor Cosmetic Changes

The 1976 model saw subtle cosmetic tweaks and improvements to emissions controls. This year aimed to address some of the initial shortcomings of the previous year. However, the underlying concerns related to the Pinto's fuel tank design persisted, and rust remained a potential problem, especially in regions with harsh winters.

1977: Significant Exterior Restyling

A major facelift characterized the 1977 Bobcat, with a new grille and taillights giving it a more modern appearance. Interior features were also enhanced, improving the overall driving experience. Despite these improvements, the potential for rust remained a concern, and the shadow of the Pinto's safety reputation still lingered.

1978: Refinements and the Optional V6 Engine

The 1978 model year introduced further styling refinements and the option of a new Luxury Decor Group, adding a touch of sophistication. More significantly, a V6 engine became available, offering a noticeable performance boost. While the V6 provided more power, it also introduced a new potential problem: timing chain issues. Rust continued to be a common issue.

1979: Minor Changes and Continued Availability of the V6

The 1979 Bobcat saw only minor changes to trim and options. The V6 engine remained available. By this point, finding parts for the Bobcat was becoming increasingly difficult, and rust remained a significant concern for owners.

1980: Final Year of Production

The 1980 model year was the Bobcat's last. Production numbers were limited, making these models relatively rare. Finding parts for a 1980 Bobcat can be challenging, and rust is almost always a factor to consider when evaluating one.

Best Years and Years to Avoid

While all Mercury Bobcat model years have their pros and cons, some stand out as being more desirable than others.

Best Years:

  • 1977: The significant restyling made this year more visually appealing. The 1977 Bobcat represents a good balance between updated aesthetics and relative simplicity.
  • 1978: The availability of the V6 engine provided a welcome performance upgrade. The Luxury Decor Group also added a touch of class. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for timing chain issues with the V6.

Years to Avoid (Potentially):

  • 1975: As the first year of production, the 1975 Bobcat suffered from early production quirks and carried the heaviest association with the Pinto's safety concerns.
  • 1980: The final year of production, the 1980 Bobcat, is rare, but finding parts can be exceedingly difficult.

Pinto Fuel Tank Controversy: Addressing the Concerns

It's impossible to discuss the Mercury Bobcat without addressing the elephant in the room: the Ford Pinto fuel tank controversy. The Pinto, and by extension the Bobcat, gained notoriety for a design flaw that made the fuel tank vulnerable to rupture in rear-end collisions.

Key Points to Understand:

  • The Issue: The fuel tank was positioned close to the rear axle, and in a rear-end collision, the axle bolts could puncture the tank.
  • Ford's Response: Ford faced significant legal and public relations challenges related to this issue. They made design changes in later years to address the problem.
  • Bobcat Implications: While the Bobcat shared the Pinto's basic design, Ford implemented some changes over the years in an attempt to mitigate the risk. However, the association with the Pinto's safety record has always been a factor in the Bobcat's reputation.

What to Consider When Buying a Bobcat:

  • Inspection: Carefully inspect the fuel tank area for any signs of damage or modification.
  • Model Year: Later model years incorporated some design changes aimed at improving fuel tank safety.
  • Documentation: Look for any documentation that shows the vehicle has undergone safety-related repairs or modifications.

It is crucial to understand that even with these precautions, owning a Mercury Bobcat carries a degree of risk related to the fuel tank design. Potential buyers should be fully aware of this risk and take appropriate safety measures.

Common Problems and Maintenance

Aside from the fuel tank issue, the Mercury Bobcat is prone to other common problems associated with cars of its era.

Common Problems:

  • Rust: Rust is a major problem, particularly in areas with harsh winters. Inspect the body panels, floorboards, and frame rails carefully.
  • Engine Issues: The 2.3-liter engine is generally reliable, but it can suffer from oil leaks and other issues. The V6 engine, while offering more power, can experience timing chain problems.
  • Electrical Problems: Wiring can become brittle and corroded over time, leading to electrical problems.
  • Suspension and Steering: Suspension components can wear out, affecting handling and ride quality. Steering components can also develop play.
  • Brakes: Brake systems can suffer from leaks and corrosion.

Maintenance Tips:

  • Regular Oil Changes: Keep the engine properly lubricated to prevent wear.
  • Coolant Flushes: Maintain the cooling system to prevent overheating.
  • Tune-Ups: Regular tune-ups can improve performance and fuel economy.
  • Brake Inspections: Inspect the brakes regularly and replace worn components.
  • Rust Prevention: Apply rust inhibitors to protect the body from corrosion.

Finding Parts and Resources

Finding parts for a Mercury Bobcat can be challenging, but not impossible.

Sources for Parts:

  • Online Retailers: Websites specializing in vintage and classic car parts are a good resource.
  • Auto Parts Stores: Some auto parts stores may still carry parts for the Bobcat, or they can order them.
  • Salvage Yards: Salvage yards are a potential source for used parts.
  • Online Forums and Clubs: Online forums and clubs dedicated to the Pinto and Bobcat can be valuable resources for finding parts and information.

Resources for Information:

  • Online Forums: Several online forums are dedicated to the Ford Pinto and Mercury Bobcat.
  • Car Clubs: Joining a car club can provide access to a network of knowledgeable enthusiasts.
  • Service Manuals: A factory service manual is an invaluable resource for repairing and maintaining the Bobcat.

Frequently Asked Questions

What years did Mercury make the Bobcat? The Mercury Bobcat was produced from 1975 to 1980.

Is the Mercury Bobcat the same as the Ford Pinto? Yes, the Bobcat is a rebadged version of the Ford Pinto, sharing the same basic platform and design.

Is the Bobcat safe? The Bobcat, like the Pinto, has safety concerns due to the fuel tank design, especially in rear-end collisions. Later models had minor design improvements, but caution is still advised.

Are Bobcat parts hard to find? Yes, finding parts for the Mercury Bobcat can be challenging, especially for the 1980 model year, but online retailers and salvage yards can be helpful.

Which Bobcat is the most desirable? The 1977 and 1978 models are often considered the most desirable due to their styling and available options, like the V6 engine.

Conclusion

The Mercury Bobcat, despite its association with the Ford Pinto's safety issues, holds a unique place in automotive history. While certain model years offer advantages in terms of styling, performance, or availability of parts, potential buyers should carefully consider the car's condition, history, and the inherent risks associated with the fuel tank design. Thorough research and a pre-purchase inspection are essential for making an informed decision.