The profile of this Mercury is clean and pristine, which was meticulously block-sanded and sprayed with a Ford Red Candy Metallic and Jet Black 2-stage paint scheme.–

Borrowing several aesthetics from different classics, this Mercury is essentially a Frankenstein build whose appearance turned out for the better. The front end features frenched headlights, and a hood from 1950 Ford that was nosed and louvered, adding a sleek and aggressive touch to the overall package.–

Under the hood lay a 350 cubic inch ZZ4 crate engine supplied by a coated Holley carburetor, which is sandwiched between an Edelbrock Performer intake and polished, transverse air cleaner, that twists stout 10 to 1 compression into 355 horsepower and 405 lb./ft. of torque. Behind that mill, a tough 700R4 4-speed features an adjustable lock-up converter.

Like its solid mechanicals and striking body, this Monterey’s interior is an eclectic mix of bests. It uses top-notch components from some of the best names in the business to create a unique kustom that mixes killer personality with awesome curb appeal.

This frame-off built 1953 Mercury Monterey is clean, mean, and ready to be driven and seen. A kustom in the truest sense of the term, this excellent-looking Merc walks a fine line between traditional street rod swing and outrageous SoCal flair.