Flathead V8 Cruiser: 1948 Ford Super Deluxe Fordor

• Seller: Thien V o (Contact)
• Location: San Jose, California
• Mileage: 2,500 Shown
• Chassis #: 899A2291028
• Title Status: Clean
• Engine: 239 cui Flathead V8
• Transmission: 3-Speed Manual

Looking for a turn-key postwar cruiser with tasteful upgrades and classic Flathead V8 charm? This 1948 Ford Super Deluxe Fordor in San Jose, California, has reportedly been restored and improved over the past two decades, blending period-correct style with modern drivability upgrades. Showing approximately 2,500 miles since rebuild, this Ford is described as ready for local cruises, car shows, and weekend enjoyment. It’s being offered here as a Barn Finds Exclusive and comes with a clean title.

Power comes from a rebuilt 239ci Flathead V8 paired with a 3-speed manual transmission (“3-on-the-tree”). According to the seller, the engine and drivetrain were rebuilt and upgraded with Offenhauser heads, an Isky camshaft, and a Holley 4-barrel carburetor mounted to an Offenhauser intake, increasing output to an estimated 175 horsepower. The transmission was reportedly rebuilt, and the speedometer recalibrated and reset to reflect mileage since restoration work.

The seller says drivability improvements include a 12-volt electrical conversion, power steering, front disc brakes with rear drums, and a custom aluminum radiator with an electric fan. A dual master cylinder and modern charging system were also reportedly added as part of the build. Vintage Air air conditioning with heat was installed, helping make this classic Ford enjoyable year-round.

Finished in bright blue, the exterior presents as a clean driver with chrome trim, polished stainless, and period-correct touches throughout. Photos show solid paint, clean brightwork, and attractive overall presentation, while the seller notes that the car has won several awards at local shows.

Inside, the cabin has been refreshed with new carpeting, door panels, window channels, and upholstery, retaining a classic postwar appearance while remaining comfortable and usable. The dash and instrumentation remain period correct, and the seller states that significant effort went into maintaining a traditional look while improving functionality.

The seller shares a lengthy ownership history and notes that the restoration process began after acquiring the car in Arizona in 2007. Over time, mechanical, cosmetic, and drivability upgrades were completed, with documentation reportedly included in the form of a binder of receipts spanning more than 18 years. Manuals and a few spare parts are also shown in the gallery.

Described by the seller as, “a beauty, not a trailer queen,” this 1948 Ford Super Deluxe appears positioned as a classic cruiser that can be driven and enjoyed rather than hidden away. For someone seeking a traditional Flathead-powered Ford with meaningful upgrades already completed, this one could be worth a closer look.