Ford Will Kill Off Mercury Sable in the Spring

"We've been very clear about getting our product down to our market share," Schirmer said. "You can't keep cars that aren't selling well."

Schirmer said letters have been sent to dealers confirming the demise of the Sable.

November 2008 Mercury Sable sales were relatively flat at 1,230 units versus 1,180 in November 2007. Sable sales are down 21 percent for the year to date, according to Ford's November sales report. Mercury has sold 15,586 Sables this year versus 19,663 in 2007. The 2009 Sable starts at $25,250, including an $825 destination charge.

The Mercury Sable came out in 1986 at the same time as the Taurus, once the bestselling car in the United States. The Sable was discontinued for the 2005 model year, but the nameplate was resurrected in 2008, replacing the Mercury Montego.

Inside Line says: Ford insiders say other vehicles may be on death row soon, although they aren't naming names right now. — Anita Lienert, Correspondent