Ford hit a home run with its new nose for ’37, and a choice of two V8 engines offered something for everyone. This mostly-original business coupe came in “Model 78” form, indicating the larger 85 HP V8. It shows wear and tear that we might expect from a nearly 90 year-old classic. The Business Coupe gave traveling salesmen (as they were, of course, men) a right-sized vehicle with ready access to sales materials behind the single row seat. The single windshield wiper came standard. Buyers wanting the luxury of two windshield wipers (and other amenities) had to pony up for the “DeLuxe” package.
The world’s most ridiculous tuna can air cleaner tops an otherwise original-looking flathead V8, the economical casting of which elevated Ford’s status back in ’32 when Henry Ford brought the power and luxury of an optional V8 to the masses. The ’37 also featured a modern firewall-hinged hood instead of twin side panels hinged down the centerline.
A three-speed manual transmission handles the gear changes. Basic instrumentation keeps the driver apprised of operating conditions. A metal steering wheel and non-collapsable steering column step up to greet you staunchly in an accident in this pre-seatbelt era coupe, virtually guaranteeing the car can be properly steered by the next owner after your demise.
The low handle opens to reveal a large luggage compartment where businessmen could store their samples and catalog cases. The single tail light put money in the pockets of frugal non-DeLuxe buyers. Check out the Business Coupe page of Ford’s brochure here at lov2xlr8. Apparently even some women could make use of such a car; imagine that! Can you picture this running, driving, largely original ’37 Ford in your garage? Cast a bid here on eBay where one click on Buy It Now seals the deal, or tempt the seller with the Make offer button. There may not be many of these left in never-restored yet drivable condition. Would you drive this imperfect ’37 as-is or build yourself a hot rod?
Love it.
I would drive it as is.
I’d have to get after the rust at the running boards and cover with new rubber. And find and install a correct air cleaner. Beyond that just drive and enjoy.
He says he has the original air cleaner, I would have like to see a picture of the rigged up gas tank he has in the trunk. Cool old car, worth fixing.
Wow, I would love to own this.
All the minor bumps, bruises, and blemishes, are street cred. Pitch that ridiculous air cleaner, do what needs to be done to preserve it- drive and enjoy.
Beautiful coupe By the way it’s said that one of these beauties were purchased by the famous platinum blonde Jean Harlow just a few months before her untimely death. There are a photo of the car taken in front of her house in North Palm Drive Beverly Hills A remarkable piece of the american history and also the most glamorous days of hollywood
Bid on e-bay $17,500 ,I would say that is all the money, No matter what you plan to do with it, you could easily double that bid to make it nice.