Official press release:

A storm will center around the Lincoln-Mercury auto show exhibit as the Mercury Cyclone concept car hits town. The dramatic styling of the four-door car encompasses many performance and luxury features.

The design of the Cyclone features a large greenhouse area which provides a roomy passenger compartment. There is sufficient space to package a large eight-cylinder engine.

Among the unique features of Cyclone is a liquid crystal glass roof which can be changed from transparent to opaque with an electric control, allowing the driver to adjust for changes in sunlight conditions. In the transparent mode, about 35 percent of visible light is transmitted through a flexible film laminated to the inner surface of the glass. With a flip of a switch, light is diffused, allowing transmittance of less than five percent.

Also adding to the sleek design is a new light source development which utilizes fiberoptics for headlamps, taillamps and instrument panel lighting. This new technology provides taillamps with even lighting, eliminating hot spots. The car's sleek lines and aerodynamic efficiency are uncluttered by the traditional side-view mirrors; instead a rear-view television provides, information up front to the driver. Two color monitors are located beneath the windshield at each end of the instrument panel.

The see-through, high-mount stop lamp provides the driver with an unobstructed rear view. Tilt/telescope steering wheel, instrument cluster and controls allow a range of adjustments to suit the preference of the driver.

Cyclone was fabricated by Synthetex Inc., a prototype firm based in Romulus, Mich.

Engine & performance:

Type: V8

Capacity: 4.6-liter 

Dimensions:

Length: 4680 mm 

Width: 1860 mm

Height: 1265 mm