Jay Leno's Garage
Muscle Car PEAK: Why the 1969 Cougar Eliminator is a Mustang Killer
2025 • E50 Nov 3, 2025 24m
Jay Leno checks out a muscle car you rarely see: a 1969 Mercury Cougar Eliminator powered by the legendary 428 Cobra Jet V8. This car was Mercury’s answer to the high-performance Mustang, targeting a buyer looking for a more refined, upscale "banker's hot rod."
Owner Emmett Abner brings his gorgeous Eliminator to the garage for a drive. Emmett, a lifelong Ford enthusiast and Cougar Club member, explains why he specifically hunted for this rare combination of the Cougar body and the big 428 engine. Only 2,250 Eliminators were built in 1969, making this a true collector's piece.
Owner Emmett Abner brings his gorgeous Eliminator to the garage for a drive. Emmett, a lifelong Ford enthusiast and Cougar Club member, explains why he specifically hunted for this rare combination of the Cougar body and the big 428 engine. Only 2,250 Eliminators were built in 1969, making this a true collector's piece.