The seller refers to this 1939 Ford Coupe as an older restoration, although its updated engine and interior may lead some to class it as a refurbishment. They admit the paint shows some age, but its overall tidy presentation and excellent mechanical health mean a new owner could enjoy this classic immediately while contemplating a cosmetic refresh. It is a turnkey classic, and I must say a big thank you to eagle-eyed Barn Finder T.J. for spotting it.
Deciding to part with a classic that has been part of your life for decades must be difficult, but that is the story behind this Ford. It has been part of the seller’s family since 1965, and its overall condition suggests it has been cherished and pampered. The seller describes it as an older restoration, and while they acknowledge its Dartmouth Green paint shows age through cracking, the lack of glaring issues and the healthy shine means it still presents well. The panels are straight, and the gaps are tight and consistent. One problem it has successfully avoided is rust. The seller claims that 100% of its steel is original, which is a significant achievement for any car with eighty-five years of active service behind it. The seller supplies underside shots, revealing no frame or floor issues. The trim shines warmly against the darker paint, and while the glass has some scuffs and flaws, there are no cracks or other significant problems.
This Coupe’s interior is an undoubted highlight, and the lack of wear and physical damage is consistent with a car that has been treated respectfully. The seatcovers are spotless, and there is no sagging on the outer edges. The door trims are equally impressive, while the painted surfaces are spotless. The floor wears a rubber mat that is in good order, and there is no significant wheel wear. Luxury appointments like radios were expensive in 1939, but this Coupe features a restored and functioning AM unit.
I described this Ford as refurbished, and one look under the hood reveals why I feel this way. Its engine bay would originally have housed a 221ci flathead V8 delivering 90hp and 155 ft/lbs of torque to the rear wheels via a three-speed manual transmission. However, the 221 made way for a 255ci powerplant of 1953 vintage during the build. It is unclear whether the new flathead features any enhancements beyond the dual exhaust, but even in stock form, outputs will have climbed to 125hp and 218 ft/lbs. The car retains a three-speed, but the case contains Lincoln-Zephyr gears. One unchanged feature is the electrical system, which remains at six volts. The seller describes the Coupe as a turnkey classic. They say it runs and drives well, floating the idea that the new owner could fly in and drive it home.
The seller listed this 1939 Ford Coupe here on Facebook Marketplace in Kokomo, Indiana. For the asking price of $20,000, it seems to offer a lot to a new owner. It has only been on the market a short time, and I would be unsurprised if it finds a new owner reasonably quickly. What would you do if you found this Ford in your garage? Would you preserve it, or would the lure of a cosmetic refresh prove irresistible?
Nice car. I’d get rid of the blue dot taillight lenses and hit the road. One of the key features of the ’39 and ’40 Fords was the taillight design. The ’39s in particular showed up on over half of the street rods built on the west coast. The hot rodders knew a great design when they saw it. I went the other way on my ’32 with rectangular Oldsmobile lights in back.
We’re blue dot lenses factory or aftermarket?
Where did they originate?
This looks like at 38 Standard by the front.
Didn’t it have the smaller engine?
They were aftermarket. Don’t remember who made them but JC Whitney sold them and hundreds of other things for customs and hot rods. Many suppliers still have them in their inventory.
Nice! Nice! Nice!
Refurbished is a stupid word. Also that front seat looks like a hemorrhoid. Other than that this car would be awesome if it was updated with a good drivetrain.
Love the Flathead…. No upgrade needed
Something I was wondering about…is the Dartmouth Green an original paint color on the 39’s? And, was that chocolate seat cover standard or added later as part of the “refurbishment? Gotta admit, as an 81 year old and 5’6”, I’m not sure my short legs would reach the pedals or I’d be able to see over the steering wheel. If my bank account looked a little better, I’d take a chance on putting it in my garage any day. Nice lookin’ oldie, but goodie.
I used to be 5’7″, but at 75 yo I’m more like 5’4″. I have no trouble driving my ’40 Ford Coupe. People were smaller back then. BTW, I have the same engine in my ’40. I won’t win many races but it’s a nice upgrade over stock.
The asking price is very fair for the condition. Just looked at the Facebook posting, and it looks very nice. The seat upholstery may not be the best, but the car really presents well.
Green is my favorite color but this looks to much like army olive drab to me which I dislike immensely. I love everything else about this car though. One of the first things I’d have to do is add vintage air as it gets very hot and humid here in Houston, Texas. I’d love to drive this car to Freddy’s steakburgers in Katy, Texas on Wednesday evenings as I enjoy a great burger and milkshake with more fries than I can eat.
God Bless America
Another nice car, I think, and the 53 255 Mercury engine is a fine upgrade, no need for a modern engine. Price is okay if it runs well as described. I like it as is with the faded paint. It could be even kept outside in the drive with a good quality breathable cover. The coupe styling is a favorite too, not sure if a business coupe.
This is a 1939 Standard and should have come with the little V8-60….60hp and could do the 1/4 mile in about 3 minutes….hehe….