This 1940 Ford Deluxe Convertible is close to what I would classify as an old-school hot rod. Its body is subtle, but changes below the skin should provide performance improvements while retaining the charm and character of a flathead V8. The seller is no stranger to classic cars, and their feedback history is reassuring for those wishing to pursue this Ford further. They have listed it here on eBay in Bee Spring, Kentucky. Eight bids have pushed the price to $25,500, which is below the reserve.
The history of this Ford is unclear, but its excellent presentation suggests that someone has lavished considerable TLC on this classic. The Raven Black paint shines like glass, with no significant flaws or imperfections. The same is true of the panels, and the underside shots confirm that this classic is rust-free and as solid as the day it left the factory. The matching soft-top fits as tight as a drum, and the bright trim provides a striking contrast to the dark paint shade. The glass is clear, and the slightly wider 15″ steel wheels with their hubcaps and trim rings suggest there might be more to this classic than meets the eye.
The first owner ordered this Ford with a 221ci flathead V8 and a three-speed manual transmission. The flathead was a wonderful engine that served the company well, with this car originally placing 85hp and 155 ft/lbs of torque at the driver’s disposal. However, times change and this Ford’s engine bay has moved with the times. The original engine has made way for a “59AB” 239 that has received a wide selection of upgrades. Beyond the obvious cosmetic additions, it inhales through a pair of carburetors mounted on an Edmunds polished intake. It also features Thickstun head covers and an air cleaner from the same manufacturer. The electrical system remains 6-volts, but the three-speed manual has made way for a three-speed C4 automatic. The power output from the new engine is pure speculation, but it is fair to expect this Ford to offer a significant performance boost and a more relaxed driving experience. There is no specific information regarding the vehicle’s mechanical health, but the indications are positive.
The Ford’s interior is as tidy as its exterior, which is a blessing since it is hard to hide substandard trim in a classic Convertible once the top is down. There is no evidence of wear or distress, the leather-wrapped wheel is crack-free, and the painted surfaces are clean. The seller added a Lokar shifter for the C4, and a set of under-dash gauges allows the driver to monitor the health of the flathead. The factory gauges were restored during the build, and the clock and radio add a luxurious feel to this Deluxe.
This 1940 Ford Deluxe Convertible offers a perfect combination of old-world charm and user-friendliness. It should perform admirably on the open road, but the automatic transmission will ensure that it is easy to handle in heavy traffic. The interest it has generated hasn’t been intense but is enough to suggest that people like what they see. Do you feel the same, and are those feelings strong enough to tempt you to pursue it further? I wish you luck if you do.
Clarence “Lumpy” Rutherford. Everybody knew or perhaps you were a “Lumpy” who everybody picked on. I was, and still am a “Lumpy” Rutherford.
Oh, BTW, that “axle” prank on American Graffiti was supposedly stolen by George Lucas from the Leave it to Beaver episode and later admitted it was “borrowed”. Wally, Eddie and Lumpy got nothing.
It later turned up in CHiPs where the perp, caught on a movie set, tried to get away in a Toronado that was set up for such a stunt. Being fwd, it went some distance sans rear axle but was in no condition to outrun motorcycle cops.
Beat Me To It!
Great looking ride. Had me until the C4. Just seems wrong for such a clastic ride. But to each their own I guess,
Beautiful. While there might be a good reason for the automatic transmission I don’t understand why folks put the door banger strips on something like this. Seems the owners are protecting themselves from themselves.
Lumps car had shaved door handles and one episode they say it’s purple in another they say they painted it grey
I like it. It’s done just the way I would have done it. I’m 83 and the strength in my clutch leg has almost gone away, so the automatic is just the ticket for me. I wonder about those head covers as those engines were prone to over heating and cracking in the exhaust valve area. Those covers don’t look like they would help with cooling even though they are finned. I thought seriously about bidding on it at first but then I came to my senses. Does a car guy ever really come to his senses, though. I don’t need a third vehicle so I will pass and let someone else enjoy it, so good luck to whoever gets it.
Clarence was the Rodney Dangerfield (get no respect).Eddie was the creep instigator and Wallace was the one who should have known better. But in the end the three of them and the Beaver made it right. That episode actually contained some great life lessons. Leave it to Beaver was one of my favorite TV shows. Thanks for clicking my memories switch, Howard.
This is an extremely nice 40 Convertible, not over restored, just nice. The vintage speed equipment is of the rare variety. I have driven several flatheads with the C-4 auto trans and I was surprised at how nice they were. Russell, you are right at our age and all the Flathead Fords I have driven the automatic would be a big plus. The price of this era convertibles has been dropping, if this could be bought under 30 K I would want to be a player.
It reminds me of the car driven and destroyed by Dude Lester in the 1941 movie “Tobacco Road”.
Nice but that 6 volt positive ground has to go.
Really John, 12 volts, who told you that or did you come up with it on your own, if so I have to ask WHY? The electrical system on this car handles the ignition the lights and horn and maybe a radio. A stock one like this one will run forever on 6 volts. I know because I have done it many times with old Fords. I am 81 years old and I have had my fair share of Flathead Fords. Many were 6 volts and it was fine. On a modified car which I have had many too, 12 volts is a must. The old story don’t believe everything you hear and don’t fix it if it isn’t broken. This 40 is just fine the way it is,in fact it’s better the way it is.
39 and 40 fords are so nice. Can’t complain about this drivetrain. Personally I’d prefer a stock paint dress, and maybe some skirts on now and then.