If you are into pre-war cars and have been looking for a new project to separate yourself from the pack, check out this 1936 Ford Cabriolet located in Willard, MO. Listed for $27,500 here on Facebook Marketplace, this project needs some work but is not too far off from becoming an elegant fair-weather cruiser. Thank you so much to Zappenduster for sending in this great tip!
The 1936 Ford models are usually spoken of when discussing the most beautiful American car. And looking at the lines of these cars, you can see why. The sinewy flowing body panels contrasted with the straight lines of the grill and hood vents make for a striking appearance. But when looking at Ford’s different Model 48 offerings, the convertible edges the rest as the best-looking of the crew (with apologies to the 1936 truck, which may be the most handsome American truck of all time).
This vert for sale appears to be a solid example. However, we are only given exterior shots of the car. The seller states that the passenger door needs some rust and wood repair, but no close-up pictures of the affected areas are given to gauge the extent of the damage. We are also told that it has an automatic transmission, but we can clearly see three pedals and the standard shifter. But what lies under the hood? Is the stock flathead still there, or has it been replaced with an overhead motor?
As pre-war cars continue to fall in stature as the older generations pass, what will happen to them? We continue to watch cars from the ’80s and ’90s climb while vehicles like these sit unsold (at least at this price). It wasn’t that long ago when ’32 Roadsters and ’36 coupes or cabriolets in much worse condition could easily realize these figures. To me, that is one of the saddest aspects of this hobby: that as tastes come and go, truly great cars can be forgotten. It’s up to us Barn-Finders to educate the next generations and keep these cars alive!
I think this is only the second time I’ve seen one of these. The first time was in the Harrah Museum in Reno, NV. The open gas filler would indicate that to revive this one is going to be a long, expensive road but worth the effort. Henry sure knew how to put them out.
Nice write-up Dusty, but this needs one correction – it’s a 1936 Roadster, not Cabriolet. The Roadster is even more rare than the Cabriolet – key differences are the thinner windshield frame (not body color), different dash (similar to 1936 Phaeton), and side curtains instead of roll-up glass windows. All of these have a rumble seat – notice the trunk handle is at the top and there’s a step on the passenger side taillight.
These shipped with an 85hp flathead V8 and 3-speed. Early 1936 had babbitt main bearings, mid-year switched to insert-style bearings.
Wow Kendra knows her stuff 👍
Now the price just went up. 😂
Thanks, Kendra. Appreciate you getting the correct info on this. This is always my biggest fear, but I appreciate you letting me know!
I’d take either one!
Wow this would be a cool rod. Put a 350/350 combo in it and off you go.
. . . and off you go to upgrade the rear end, the brakes, the wiring, the wheels and tires, etc. etc. etc. and before you know it, it’s “a cool rod” – not a vintage roadster! No, just get a fiberglas replica.
Yes I would upgrade everything.
Waiting for the “put a belly button engine in it” crowd to respond. Oops! Never mind….
I am for keep the fiat head in it crowd.
Sure it’s a small horsepower engine but one could put three deuces, headers and just have fun with the fiat head..
To me it’s a 110-120 hp build up and drive it on a sunny day with the top down .
If one needs more ponies then get a modern pony car.
But alas one guys opinion.
I like it!!!
I’ve admired these cars since I was a youngster in the 50’s and got a 3in one model kit. Back in those days people put all kinds of engines and transmissions in old cars you could buy for $10-$50. One I remember quite well was a 36 Ford coupe with a 55 Cadillac overhead valve engine B&M trans and Olds quick change rear end. It was quite well known at the local drag strip and around town.
God Bless America
I have a 1935 Ford Tudor Deluxe that I’m restoring. It will be a driver when finished, not a show car or trailer queen. I’m leaving the rebuilt flathead V8 and factory 3 speed, floor shift transmission in the car. I just love the looks of these cars. Mine has the hump back trunk with the spare mounted in the rear. The mid to late 30’s produced some really good looking cars with design features that have been lost over the years.
When I was 15 I traded a 1903 Sprgfield 30/06 for a 36 coupe with a 53 Merc FH mech brakes and all. Now that I’m near 80 these are not often found and out of my SS income range A nice 302 and auto would be my choice. Don’t ever lose the passion !
Small block Ford drivetrain and drive it!!
Where is the gas cap and how long has it been off?