1940 Ford DeLuxe Restomod Convertible

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 perfection. 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 perfect 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 outstanding good looks and a reliable drivetrain, shouldn't this Ford be in your future?