We always appreciate the input of our readers at Barn Finds. Whether it is via article feedback or spotting excellent vehicles for us to feature, we remain eternally grateful. Therefore, I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder T.J. for spotting this 1940 Ford De Luxe Convertible. It is missing a few parts but is an essentially complete and rock-solid project candidate. It would be ideal for a faithful restoration, although it would make the perfect foundation for an old-school hot rod. It is definitely worth a closer look as you contemplate what path you might take.
Ford released its De Luxe range in 1938 to fill a perceived gap between its base models and the more expensive Lincoln offerings. It produced several body styles, and while total sales hit 367,364 cars across all derivatives, only 23,704 buyers selected the Convertible. The only rarer version was the Station Wagon, with 8,730 rolling off the line. This car’s history is unclear, and there is no evidence of what paint shade it wore when it was shiny and new. The seller describes it as solid, and there is no evidence of rust in the supplied photos. The panels sport a few repairable dings and dents, but the consistent panel gaps suggest the car is structurally sound. The top frame is intact, and the buyer must factor a new top into their budget if they seek all-weather protection. The grille and a few minor trim pieces have disappeared, and replacing the grille could be an eye-watering exercise. Reproductions cost a healthy four-figure sum, but patience might unearth a good original for slightly less.
Ford’s flathead V8 enjoyed a long and successful production history. It proved a masterstroke by the company because it was extremely cheap to manufacture, and its reliability is legendary. This car features the 221ci version that delivered 85hp and 155 ft/lbs of torque to the rear wheels via a three-speed manual transmission when the Convertible left the factory. The flathead’s flexibility made it a popular choice among buyers during this period. Its low-end torque delivery meant the driver didn’t need to row the shifter to extract the best from a 1940 Ford. The seller indicates this car hibernated for decades, and it appears it doesn’t run. These engines are notoriously robust, and revival might be straightforward if it turns. Even if the new owner pursues the hot rod path, the availability of performance components means it could still power this classic in a significantly wilder form.
The grille isn’t the only missing component because this Ford’s interior no longer houses the dash. That is a blow, although scouring the usual online auction sites could unearth a replacement relatively cheaply. However, the seats are intact. Whether these see further service depends on the buyer’s vision. A faithful refurbishment makes retention an obvious choice, but they could also work effectively in a hot rod and draw favorable comments if covered in custom trim.
The seller listed this 1940 Ford De Luxe Convertible here on Facebook Marketplace in Golden, Colorado. They set their price at $16,000, and while that doesn’t make it the cheapest project on the planet, the new owner won’t face the expense or heartache of rust repairs. It will be fascinating to gauge your feelings and whether you would opt for restoration over a hot rod build. I prefer originality, although I would probably find the rod approach irresistible. Do you agree?
Lumpy Rutherford tribute car only way to go with this..
Dam Rw, a Lumpy reference, way to hip for the crowd. Did Lumpy actually take Wally around town in a 40 convertible? I don’t remember that. You must be an old geezer like me.
Wally & Eddy chain the diff to a tree
Lumpy yanks it out from under and lands in the street
Funny Shtick
Lumps 40 was purple in most episodes one ep.they say they painted it gray, also has twice pipes, shaved door handles and appears to be lowed in front.
Don’t forget the cow horn.
How could you tell the color of Lumpy’s car? I only remember black and white episodes?
They mention the color in the show
Is this the same model that was used in 47 to parade the last veterans of the Civil War in could this even e one of those cars. Wish it was mine.
My first car at 16 yrs old in 1954-55. Put a brand new white vinyl top on it with chrome framed rear glass window for $40.00. I didn’t have the money. a buddy lent it to me, paid him back $2.00 a week. I think I paid $40.00 for the car also. Now let’s not talk about Hindsight!
Someone wanted a dash mighty bad to desecrate this car by taking it. A beautiful example of what it would be like catting around town in style. And a convertible, too. How great is that?
Agree…..you can see other 1939/40 in the back ground……kinda sad to mess up a convert…..nice black paint….
Given the number of other interesting old cars in the photo backgrounds, I suspect the seller is not in the habit of selling cars at a great discount and I suspect one will find it to be a lot rustier than first examined. Look at those running board photos – see what I mean!
I’ld get the engine running, new top, make a dash with Stewart Warner gauges, pick up a couple of grills to make one that looks nice and enjoy driving.
Restore it to show room quality and score compliments from other Ford lovers at Cars und Coffee.
“although scouring the usual online auction sites could unearth a replacement relatively cheaply.” I saw a cut up partial dash a couple of years ago for $250. Re-pops and originals go for around $500.
Looks like two other old coupes in the background but I would be interested in the old Peterbilt cabover sitting behind the ragtop Ford
To much $ for two little. Lots of hard to find missing parts. Needs total mechanical restoration. Even if you want to let the body and interior go. And run it as a rat rod. You’ll be under water before you get it on the road! 5k tops for what’s there now.
Your idea of “essentially complete” and mine are different I guess. Too much missing on this, including dash, expensive grill, and lot os little stuff. Those little things add up to bigger money, too.