AUTOS: Three More for the Road

Out to dealers last week went three more newentries in Detroit's 1955 auto race.

MERCURY has been completely changed, both inside and out, with a bigger engine (up from 161 to 188 h.p.), tubeless tires, bigger brakes and better shock absorbers.

The new models are 1 in. lower, have a wider, cleaner grille, new wrap-around windshields, and slanted headlights for a more rakish look. Mercury's new luxury model, the Montclair, has an even more powerful (198 h.p.) engine and a body that is 2½ in. lower (height: 58½ in.) than other Mercurys.

CADILLAC came out with virtually the same body as last year, but boosted engine horsepower from 230 to 250. Cadillac's high-priced ($5,813) Eldorado convertible is lower (maximum height: 60 in.) and longer, with a pair of new, rocketlike tailfins. Horsepower has been increased to 270, highest for any U.S. stock car.

RAMBLER, which American Motors announced would be the "basic volume car" for both Hudson and Nash this year, looks little different from last year's models except for a new wafflelike grille. Most of the changes are mechanical, including a more rigid body frame, larger front-wheel cutouts for easier turning, and a wider front suspension for greater road stability. Prices have been cut to make it "competitive" with the cheapest Fords, Chevrolets and Plymouths.