The Mercury Bobcat was introduced for the 1974 model year for the Canadian market, and 1975 for the U.S. market. Based on the Ford Pinto, the Bobcat was a series of compact cars available as sedans, station wagons, and hatchbacks. Engine options included inline four and V6 units. In 1979, the Bobcat recieved a styling update, which lasted until the end of production in 1980.