Sometimes you only need to look at the bidding history to gain a clear insight into the desirability of a particular classic car. Take this 1951 Ford Custom Deluxe Victoria as an example. Since the owner listed this classic for sale here on eBay, it has already received thirty-five bids. This action has pushed the price to $12,100. Part of its attraction undoubtedly lies in its stunning condition, while the owner’s decision to list it for sale with No Reserve will have helped its cause. If you feel strongly attracted to this Ford, you will find it located in Quinton, Virginia, and with No Reserve to consider, this classic is mere days away from finding a new home.

The history of the Ford Motor Company is fascinating, and from a styling perspective, it could easily be divided into two separate eras. Under the control of its founder, the focus was on providing affordable transport for the masses, with little thought given to styling or looks. However, once Henry Ford’s grandson took the helm, things changed markedly. It seemed that the Ford Motor Company had become more comfortable with taking risks when it came to the question of vehicle style. Nowhere was this more obvious than when they introduced their iconic 1949 Ford. With integrated fenders and more streamlined looks, it was unlike anything the company had released before. It was also a runaway sales success. Our 1951 Custom Deluxe continues this theme. It presents superbly in a combination of Sandpiper Tan and Hawaiian Bronze Metallic. It seems that this classic has spent its life in sunny California. Therefore, its rust-free status is no great surprise. The panels are as straight as an arrow, with no evidence of dings dents, or prior accident repairs. The trim and chrome are in excellent condition for their age, while there are no visible flaws with the glass. The wide whitewall tires add the perfect finishing touch to this classy classic.

The 1951 model year was a landmark for vehicles like our feature car. While there was little changed under the hood compared to its predecessors, with Ford’s venerable 239ci flathead V8 taking pride of place. What the company chose to bolt to the back of this motor heralded a new era for ease of driving. This was the first year in which a three-speed automatic was offered, which we find in our Victoria. This sweet little V8 should be producing 100hp, which is enough to send the car through the ¼ mile in 21.8 seconds. The owner doesn’t indicate whether this is a numbers-matching classic, but the news seems to be nothing but positive for potential buyers. He received the car as a swap in April and has clocked 1,000 miles behind the wheel since. He says that the car runs and drives extremely well and has no issues or problems to note. It seems that this one is ready to hit the road as a turn-key classic with a new owner behind the wheel.

If this Ford’s exterior makes a positive impression, its interior continues that theme. It presents beautifully in two-tone tan with contrasting darker brown carpet. The upholstered surfaces are in excellent order, with no signs of significant wear or physical damage. The only flaw that the owner notes is a small tear in the headliner just above the back window. However, he does hold a piece of material that the new owner could use to apply a blind patch. The dash is in excellent order, while the gauges look crisp and clean. The original factory AM radio doesn’t work, but the owner includes a spare plus a pile of valves if the buyer wants to return it to a functioning state. The wheel is in excellent condition, with little wear and no sign of any cracks. As well as a radio, the buyer will receive a factory heater, along with courtesy lights and a day/night rearview mirror. Once the tear in the headliner has been repaired, there is nothing else that this interior will need.

When I look at the overall condition of this 1951 Ford Custom Deluxe Victoria, it’s easy to understand why the bidding has been so spirited. This is a car that presents superbly, and its needs are minimal. The few faults could be addressed over the colder winter months, leaving the vehicle ready to hit the road for some classic motoring enjoyment when the weather turns warm again. With No Reserve to consider, a new owner is only days away for this beautiful survivor. The big question is, could you be that new owner?