The Ford line received a refreshed look inside and out for 1937, especially up front. Ford stylists went for a more streamlined look and put the almond-shaped headlights into the front fenders for the first time. And under the new one-piece hood, two V8 engines were now offered: the new economy-minded 136-cubic-inch/60-horsepower engine, along with the popular 221-cubic-inch/85-horsepower V8. Seventeen models were offered in two trim levels, the base series and the Deluxe series. Here is an impressive example of what Ford called “a splendid car for long trips,” the 1937 Deluxe Fordor Touring Sedan. It is currently garaged and pampered in Oak Hill, Florida, and is for sale here on craigslist for $19,800. Thanks, Randy J., for sending this fine Ford our way.
At 90 years old, this is a well-preserved car that presents extremely well. The owner is a retired Space Shuttle Mechanical Systems Engineer, an A&P Mechanic, and describes himself as a very picky, patient mechanic (just the type of person you want to buy an antique car from). He admits to always being a 4-cylinder Model A kind of guy, but wanted to “experience something different that would smoothly cruise down the road at 55-60 MPH or more comfortably.” When he stumbled upon the first Model A he had restored that was for sale, he bought it. Since he can only keep one car, he’s decided to reluctantly sell the ’37 Ford.
The seller states that he purchased the car from an older gentleman in Alabama who bought it in 1989. He was a guy who professionally built dragsters in his huge, “spotless,” climate-controlled shop, and this 1937 Ford was truly his “pride and joy”. The previous owner claimed the 37,000 miles were original, although there’s no mention of documentation. The current black paint is glossy and shiny, the chrome and trim looks great, and there are no rust issues. The two rear door windows have new glass, seals, and window trim and the windows and seals for the two front windows and two small rear windows are included in the sale.
The interior is said to be original. If so, it’s in remarkable condition for its age. I’m not seeing any major wear or tear based on the photos. With the suicide doors open, the cabin looks large and comfortable, and the new-for-’37 instrument panel and steering wheel look sharp.
There are no photos of the engine bay, but I’d be surprised if it wasn’t as clean as the rest of this car. The Deluxe trim level came with an 85-horsepower, 221-cubic-inch V8. It’s paired with a manual transmission, and there are only 37,009 miles on the clock. The seller has had the original radiator professionally cleaned and has installed a new clutch, pressure plate, throw-out bearing, and all new motor and transmission mounts. The seller, on the advice of his fellow Early Ford V8 Club members, sent the car to a nearby “expert” to get the Ford tuned up properly. The distributor, coil, and the dual water pumps have all been refurbished. The seller says, “The Flathead V-8 engine starts every time in a split second, runs very smooth, has very good throttle response, and the transmission shifts very smooth.” I know the 5-Window Coupes and Cabriolets get the spotlight when it comes to collecting these great-looking ’37 Fords, but it’s refreshing to see a Deluxe Fordor Touring Sedan for a change. Especially one in as fine a condition as this. What do you think?
If I had $20,000, I’d have a ’37 Ford and $200 as soon as I could contact the seller.
Such an elegant design, and in beautiful condition, too. While I prefer Tudors, that’s really of zero importance. This is too good an opportunity to pass up.
Sounds as if the seller has made all the right moves to keep the Ford operating properly. After reading the ad, I’d feel perfectly comfortable handing over the money and driving it home.
Lovely car, apparently a great person to buy from, and a fine writeup, Ron.
I have a ’37 Fordor Deluxe Touring Sedan- Absolutely love it! I am going to install a ’39 transmission to get synchro with all gears. Have the transmission, but it’s going to be a bit of work to install it… You know, two ’37’s would look pretty good in my garage!
Memories! Several weeks ago it was the rail gang car, reminded me of my days growing up in a mountain town (logging camp). Now this, same town, same growing up. It was in 1947/48, had an older cousin just recently out of the Navy. He stayed with us for a few weeks and had a dark blue sharp looking 37 Ford 4-door. Richie was somewhat of a “free spirit” type and one afternoon my mom needed to go into town, about a 25 mile trip from camp. The road was mud and gravel and typical logging road, high, windy, lots of turns, bends, hills up and down. My brother and I, he is two years the older, rode along with them, the two of us in the back seat. Wow, what a ride, Richie sure loved push’n that 37 to the limits on the curves and Mike and I sure did alot of sliding across that back seat. Remember the trip well. Mike just had a birthday yesterday, think I’ll call him and ask if he to remembers the ride to Dallas with Richie.
I’m not much of a car guy, but I love pre-war cars, and this is a beauty! 20k is a good price for a sweet vehicle like this that all you have to do is drive, and drive I would! Every chance I got!
Always loved these cars the headlights into the fenders is just a work of art and i feel this is worth every penny. If I had the money I would already be on my way to buy it this is the seller you want to buy from just an amazing amount of care put into this car.
I agree Lakota. I love the old Fords and to me this car is a work of art and is absolutely beautiful and I’d love to own it. I’ve never read such a thorough and detailed write up like this owner did either, it shows integrity and caring for his work and for the car, and as RayT said it looks like he’s definitely the right kind of guy to buy from.
This is as good as it gets folks.
Big take away here…if you properly maintain your vehicle (although this one looks like it has never even been driven!) it will retain its value decades later. GLWTS👍🇺🇸
This old boy is in great shape! Even has the hot water heater, the clock, the radio and sun visors. With all the work that was done it should be very reliable to drive to shows or where ever.
This is a beautiful Ford. 1937 was a truly well styled vehicle. This one is in amazing shape. It doesn’t quite look new, but it’s not far from it. I read how many versions of this vehicle Ford built in 1937. The population in our country was far less than and it was during the depression, but Ford still seem to think it could market and sell automobiles in mass numbers. However, today they don’t seem to think so. All they can do is build F1 50s. I think someone’s lying to us.
Lovely looking car. I’ve always loved pre-1940 Ford cars. If I bought one, I’d keep original what can be original, while upgrading what needs to be upgraded.
Interesting car. There are multiple items that are “deluxe”, but having only one windshield wiper and a painted grille, are definitely “standard” features. This one is an earlier ’37 in that it doesn’t have the divider in the grille which keeps you from “seeing through”. The divider was added later in 1937. Regardless, pretty darn nice car. Someone will have fun and enjoy driving and owning it.
Beautiful car but this really was a time of awkward transition between the beautiful and perfectly proportioned 33-34’s and the 39-40’s. The alligator hood looked great on the true post war cars but looks out of place here. And the odd proportions of these cars. The front end looks about one foot too short from the side. And the headlights have that weird tadpole metamorphosis look to them. Cudos to this owner and his car. The Ford stylists didn’t give him a lot to work with.
If only this were a 1938!!! Possibly the most BEAUTIFUL FORD — EVER! (in just this form, a Deluxe black Fordor). Two things I would want: a period-correct turn signal kit, and Columbia Overdrive. Oh — and add rear fender skirts to the Fordor ’38!
have you considered comparing the 37 design to that of current “autos”? Think the 37 might be the winner.
Absitively and posolutely!