• Seller: Tim M ayson (Contact)
• Location: North Augusta, South Carolina
• Mileage: 73,039 Shown
• Chassis #: 185539213
• Title Status: Clean
• Engine: 221 cui Flathead V8
• Transmission: 3-Speed Manual

The 1937-1940 Ford De Luxe line has long been a popular car for hot rodding, largely due to its exceptional styling and V8 engine. These days, finding an unmodified and solid example is rather difficult, most have either rusted away or been cut up to build someone’s dream machine. This example is an unfinished restoration project, but the body is still original, and it’s powered by the correct flathead V8. The chassis and engine have already been restored, but there’s still work to be done, and the seller has realized they will not be able to complete it. So, it’s being offered here as a Barn Finds Auction and is located in North Augusta, South Carolina.

The De Luxe line was first introduced for model year 1938 to offer buyers an option between the base Ford, the Standard, and the larger and more expensive Lincolns. Buyers who opted for the De Luxe received a reworked grille, additional trim work, and a better-appointed interior. By 1940, Ford had added hydraulic brakes to all of their models, which was a big deal at the time.

As noted, the chassis has already been restored. The body was removed from the frame and carefully stored, while the chassis underwent a full rotisserie restoration. The seller has provided photos of the frame while it was apart, which can be viewed in the gallery. They also state that the engine was rebuilt while it was out. It’s paired to a 3-speed manual and is said to be in good running condition. The body has been reinstalled onto the frame, but all of the other components still need to be reinstalled. It appears that all the body panels, glass, and major interior components are present, but may require restoration work.

The 221 cui flathead V8 was a major reason these cars were so popular. At the time, Ford’s competitors were still offering inline-sixes. While 85 horsepower may not sound particularly impressive by today’s standards, it was a respectable amount of power for a budget-friendly daily driver. However, it was the V8’s torque and sound that really captured people’s attention. Many of these engines were upgraded for higher performance, and who knows how many found their way into Model A hot rods. The fact that this one’s engine has already been fully rebuilt is a huge plus.

There’s still a ton of work to be done here, but this looks like an amazing find. Since the seller has already done the heavy lifting of restoring the chassis and drivetrain, it saves the next owner a ton of time and money. The question is, what route do you take from here? The seller states that the body has great patina, and it would definitely be unique put back together with the original paint and patina. Given how solid it is, it would also make a good candidate for finishing at a concours level or possibly to build as a period hot rod. What do you think?

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