In 1950 Ford was riding the crest of a wave. Their new model introduced in 1949 and destined to remain in production for three model years, was a sales success. This was vitally important for Ford as its success prevented the maker from going broke when things had been tough for them in previous years. This 1950 example is to be found for sale here on eBay, located in Bristow, Indiana. With a BIN of $7,650 and a clear title, this example might make either a great restoration project for someone, or alternatively you could drive it as is and enjoy the experience.

The 1949 Ford was significant for two other reasons. The first reason was that it was the first all-new design to emerge from “the big three” US car manufacturers after World War II. The second reason was that its styling was considered revolutionary and paved the way for a more integrated styling trend that has remained with us ever since. This one is a solid and unmolested example of the model, and had been in storage since the late 1970s before being revived by its current owner.

The paint finish is by no means perfect, but apart from this small rust area and some rust in the spare wheel sump, it all appears to be very solid. The owner is very honest, clear and concise in the ad which I find to be rather refreshing. He describes the floor and frame as being rock solid. He also states that there is no bondo or obvious repairs. He avoided repairing the few rusty areas because he was trying to keep the car as original as possible. It has a number of small dents and the usual marks, scratches and surface corrosion that accumulate over the years, but I think that these just add to the character of the car.

The interior is original and untouched. The front seat has some staining, but the integrity of the covers looks good. The door cards are rough and the seller states that the rear seat is not as good as the front. However, he has put blanket covers over both the front and back seats and has been using it as is.

Mechanically this little Ford appears to be really strong. That wonderful little flathead V8 starts without the need for choke or pumping the gas pedal. The owner states that it runs smooth and clean with no smoke, and that the overdrive transmission works perfectly. The owner has gone through the brakes, replacing wheel cylinders and the master cylinder and he says that it now stops on a dime. As expected after such a long hibernation he has also replaced the tires, battery, points, plugs, exhaust system, gas tank, fuel pump and water pump. Everything on the car works, but the seller does have a sense of humor. He states that the fuel gauge works, but that it sometimes “has a mind of its own”.

A look on Hagerty shows a #4 condition car as being valued at $7,100. Personally I think that this is probably a little better than a #4, but it isn’t a #3. Is it worth the extra money over a #4? Once again, my personal opinion is that it is. This is a car that if it is as described, would be a car that you could happily get into at any time and be confident that you’d reach the destination on virtually any journey. The biggest decision would be whether to leave it as is, or whether to restore it. Honestly, I wouldn’t change a thing.