PICS: The Sam Barris '49 Mercury coupe, possibly the first of that breed to be chopped, and arguably as famous as the Hirohata Merc.........

that really can't be improved, in my humble opinion. However, I did wish to see it without front bumper guards and spotlights. Also, it may have been the only early or late custom of any make or model with a single tailpipe. I just couldn't stand it, and added one, properly canted, to the left side. 

As found:

With bumper guards and spotlights removed, added exhaust and a slight section:

Here's a photo from the 2008 Grand National Roadster Show of the rear of Sam's Merc: 

Just did the section to see what it did for the overall proportion, and like how it seemed to lengthen the car and made it a bit sleeker?

Enjoy!