- Equipped with a modified 239-cid "flathead" V-8 engine
- Three-speed transmission and hydraulic drum brakes
- Outstanding workmanship and vintage speed equipment
- Pure stock appearance
LOT 669
Selling on Saturday Evening
1940 Ford DeLuxe Restomod Convertible
OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE
As the 1930s gave way to the 1940s, many new automotive styles and innovations were being introduced. Ford's 1940 lineup attracted a wide range of customers when new, from the country doctors that still made house calls, to those dare-devil moonshiners in the South. Ford Motor Company's Head of Styling, E. T. "Bob" Gregorie, under the direction of President Edsel B. Ford, created a family look while incorporating design features that distinguished each member in the fine family of Ford cars. For many, the 1940 Fords represent the pinnacle of design and have long been favorites with collectors and admirers. Several innovations were introduced with the 1940 Fords including the much-improved sealed beam headlights. Ford touted the new twin-beam action with a Country beam for the open road or a Traffic beam for passing or in town driving. The entire headlight assembly along with the parking lights, were housed in a sleek chrome unit that was skillfully blended into the fully rounded fenders. A major safety improvement was relocating the transmission shifter from the floor to the steering column and with "finger tip" operation, it made changing gears easier and safer for the driver while providing more legroom and comfort for front seat passengers. Those riding in the new 1940 Ford enjoyed a more pleasing experience with the addition of double-acting shock absorbers, longer front springs, and deep, soft cushioned seats. Under the hood, the V-8 engine provided plenty of power for day-to-day driving whether it was to and from work, a shopping expedition, or on a journey to visit far away relatives. From every angle the 1940 Fords were rolling works of art, impressive when new and deeply admired today.
Our consignor acquired this car recently from a close friend who had restored and built it as a gift for his father. Finished in deep rich Claret Maroon, it captures the look that others tried to copy. At the time of cataloging, the car showed a little over 2,600 miles since its build. Completed in 2011, the two-year project took no short cuts with attention to quality and precision. Treated to a full frame-off restoration, the body panels are smooth and aligned just as they were so artfully designed. Applied in several steps using the PPG Clear Coat system, the deep maroon paint today shows the care and quality of application. Show quality chrome was installed inside and out including the center grille, bumpers, headlight surrounds and door handles. Fresh brown leather seating surfaces comfort the driver and passenger while the tight-fitting folding tan top is textbook in execution and appearance. During the process, all electrics were upgraded to 12 volts which allowed the installation of a new set of custom gauges from VDO, completed with a billet aluminum dashboard. All-new plastic dashboard trim items were installed; the floor covering and door panels were all completed to the same degree of excellence. The show quality chassis was finished in high-gloss chassis black paint and, during the restoration, a custom disc brake system was added up front while the rear drum brakes were completely rebuilt. The wheels were finished in the same Claret Maroon and, today, are fitted with a fresh set of wide whitewall tires plus both inner and outer bright metal trim rings and hubcaps.
The real treat on this 1940 DeLuxe is what's under the hood. A totally built 239-cubic-inch flathead engine was installed and fitted with Offenhauser finned aluminum heads, as well as a triple-carburetor intake manifold, also from Offenhauser. Currently just one highly polished Stromberg 97 sits atop the manifold; however, the second and third Strombergs are included in the sale. Power comes from a solid-state Petronix system working with a Mallory performance distributor. Fenton cast iron headers are mounted to the engine and feed the gases through a dual exhaust system. On close inspection there are many little details you will see such as the Ford script tailpipe extensions and the blue dot inserts on the rear taillights. From the exterior, this 1940 Ford DeLuxe convertible looks like it is pure stock, while the subtle upgrades and extra performance make this a ride that can be proudly shown and confidently driven. Also included are a few spare parts and the original chassis parts book as well as reprints of other service items. With outstandingly good looks and a powerful, reliable drivetrain, it checks all the boxes for guaranteed open road fun.
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