Decisions, decisions. This 1938 Ford De Luxe Tudor wears its original paint and is a rock-solid survivor that runs and drives. It shows its age and would be a prime candidate for a sympathetic restoration. However, would that be the most appropriate course for the new owner to follow? After all, they’re only original once, and this old beauty would certainly command respect in its current form. If you have a clear vision for this classic, you will find it listed here on Craigslist in Denver, Colorado. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Mike F. for spotting a survivor that could be yours for $6,850.
Ford unveiled the De Luxe range in 1938 to fill a gap in its model lineup. Diversity was the key, with the company offering buyers ten body styles. This first-year example is a Tudor Sedan. Its history is unclear, but the seller states that its Black paint is original. It undeniably shows its age, and some exterior surfaces have accumulated surface corrosion. However, the seller claims that there is no penetrating rust. The panels are also straight, meaning that it could be a prime candidate for a fairly straightforward restoration. Alternatively, the buyer could treat the dry corrosion to prevent deterioration, preserving the Ford as a genuine survivor. The bright trim’s condition is consistent with the car’s age, and the glass appears to be in relatively good condition.
The originality of this Ford continues in its interior. It isn’t perfect, but the lack of significant wear and holes suggests its owners have cherished and protected this classic for eighty-eight years. The headliner fit on the rear pillar is slightly out, but I believe that it could be pulled back into place. I am so impressed with this interior that all I would do is throw blankets over the seats for protection during regular use. I would remove them for events like Cars & Coffee so that spectators can admire their remarkable condition. Otherwise, I wouldn’t touch a thing.
Ford introduced its venerable flathead V8 in 1932, breaking new ground for an affordable V8 in the American passenger car market. The flathead proved to be a survivor, and there are plenty of classics from this vintage still prowling the streets with over nine decades of active service under their belts. This 1938 De Luxe features the 221ci version, sending 85hp to the rear wheels via a three-speed manual transmission. The car’s performance would have been considered impressive in its prime, and it would still trundle along quite happily today. The seller states that it has a genuine 56,000 miles on its odometer, although with no apparent evidence, the claim must be taken at face value. They upgraded the car to 1939 “juice” brakes, but it is otherwise unmolested. The Ford runs and drives, appearing to be a turnkey proposition.
Some enthusiasts are unwilling to consider a restoration project because the price of admission can be prohibitive. However, this 1938 Ford De Luxe Tudor is undeniably affordable. That brings me back to my initial question: whether restoring this gem would be the right move. The lack of rust and panel imperfections would make the process fairly straightforward, which might make the Ford irresistible. Others will feel that, since it has survived for almost nine decades untouched, it should be allowed to continue proudly carrying its survivor tag. Do you agree?
Clean, polish, and wear.