4H27K546187 Comet Cyclone

Here's a nice looking 1964 Comet Cyclone that SOLD for a hefty $19,500. Although there is a K code in the VIN, it doesn't actually denote the 289 HiPo. For some reason, Mercury used the K code in 1964 to designate a low compresssion 4 bbl 289 that used regular fuel. This is the same engine Mustang used in the short-lived "D" code option. Judging by the high dollars bid on this car, the bidders probably believed this car is a real 289 HiPo. Unfortunately, these "LoPo" K code Mercs have been confusing car collectors for many years...

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Quote from KCode66

Just saw one of those at a car show last September, Bright Red. I like this color better.

I agree...These Comets look their best in black or white. I prefer the '65 body over the '64, although both years use the same glass, doors, and "fastback" roofline that originated on the '63 Falcon coupe.

The Comet Cyclone model was introduced mid-year 1964, building on the S-22 model from 1963. Cyclones are of interest here because a scant few were built in 1964 and '65 with the 289 HiPo package. These are without a doubt the rarest of the 3 car models built by Ford with the 271 hp V-8, with Fairlanes and Mustangs accounting for an overwhelming majority of all HiPo production.

Cyclones have some interesting, sporty, standard features including: bucket seats, console, woodgrain 3 spoke wheel, a unique interior, and polished stainless wheel covers that simulate chrome reversed wheels. A single checkered flag emblem that was first used on the full-sized Mercury Maurader identifies a Cyclone on the side fender. A small, dash-mounted tachometer was standard, along with a 4bbl V-8 that used regular fuel. The 289 HiPo was available by special order only, and was not an RPO. Consequently, very few were built, and a K code in the VIN does not mean it is a factory HiPo. The '64-65 Comets didn't come with dual exhausts, but the Cyclones had a special low restriction muffler that gave them a distinct sound.

The "A" code, premium fuel 289 was standard on the 1965 Cyclones, with a choice of automatic or 4 speed transmissions. The HiPo was still available by dealer special order only, and these cars are quite rare. It's likely that less than 100 were built, and they are hard to authenticate without a build sheet, because they don't have the "K" in their VIN. Some '65 HiPo Comet VINs have an "A" code, and some have a blank space in the 5th position of the VIN.

All HiPo Comets have 9" rear axles, along with a heavy duty export brace, and stiffer suspension. The presence of an original export brace is an easy way to tell if a Comet is a genuine HiPo. Some had an optional transistorized ignition.

As with most Mercury's, generally the values are not quite as high as their cousins from the Ford division, especially Mustangs. The sale of a '64 Cyclone that's not really a HiPo for over $19,000 is unusual, and probably represents another eBay anomoly.

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I have 2 original unrestored HiPo Comets, and one has an export brace, and the other doesn't.

What model year(s) do you have? Do they both have a six digit DSO code? What assembly plant(s) built your Comets? I've seen only four authentic HiPo Cyclones "in person". They all had factory export braces, and they were 1965 models...