Vehicle Description
The 1936 Ford Model 68 Deluxe Phaeton was built as a true
upper-echelon classic. And while this rare treat is still for only
the select few, the slick paint, loaded interior, powerful ZZ4
crate motor, and many other upgrades prove that classic elegance
doesn't have to leave you short on power, luxury, or flair.
The thin convertible roof of the Phaeton body style is always
desirable on a classic. It gives the car a very sporty and European
feel with the top up. This was far from the most expensive car Ford
offered in its upper-market Deluxe line in '36, but people opted to
pay more for roll down windows. Today we'd all love the cool look
of the Phaeton, and it's especially in-demand because of the fewer
people who bought one new. But more than rarity, you can tell this
one is something special just by the way the sunlight hits the
paint. The Brandywine color is full of a rich and modern luster. So
you just instantly can tell someone invested the kind of money in
just paintwork that other people would spend to buy a whole
restored Model A. And to understand the overall quality, just look
at how all of the 80+ year-old steel retains its sleek lines, or
how the doors can still easily be open and shut with confidence.
All the details are right on this one, including the waterfall
chrome grille, etched chrome bumpers with center dip curve, and
even the Ford V8 hubcaps. Yes, this a superior machine, but there's
much more here than just elegance.
The gorgeous condition of the tan leather interior was a product of
the investment in restoration. The comfortable two rows of bench
seats follow a similar pattern to original, but now the front
seatback is split for individualized comfort. And that seat is even
heated for those early morning runs to the car show. The seat color
is matched on the door panels and banjo-style steering wheel. And
when you add in the exterior-matching carpeting and dash, this
interior could win awards for its coordination alone. But what will
really make you fall in love is how easy this one is to drive on
any day. There's a parcel shelf built to house a modern AM/FM/CD/XM
stereo with iPod input, and this even has cold air conditioning to
keep you comfortable with the top down. You also get the
convenience of a Lokar shifter and a full set of Classics
Instruments gauges set in a sporty machine-turned aluminum panel.
But even with all this more modern flair, they still left the rare
and interesting AM radio in the center of the dash. It's there just
so you're reminded of how far this car has come in its complete
restoration.
And while you'll love the upgrades to the exterior and interior,
your favorite is hiding under the butterfly hood. While the Ford
flathead is a fine motor, people will be bowled over by the sight
of this 350 cubic-inch ZZ4 crate motor. Just like the rest of the
car, it's hard not to fall in love with the level of shine on the
motor. And have you noticed how the block and intake were painted
to match the rest of the Brandywine? It's another sign of a
top-quality and through build, and since there's only about 4.500
miles on the motor, it really is as fresh as it looks! More than
just an award-worthy appearance, this is a true powerhouse. The
performance crate V8 has been enhanced and fortified with fuel
injection, aluminum heads, Accel DFI electric ignition, and a
Walker aluminum radiator w/electric fan. This kind of upgrade makes
this Ford perfect for everything from easy cruising to performance
driving. That's why it also has a strong 700R4 four-speed automatic
transmission w/overdrive and a stout Ford 9-inch rear. They even
upgraded the front suspension to a Mustang II-style independent
unit with tubular A-arms and adjustable coilovers for the best in
handling and comfort. Add in front disc brakes and a modern tread
on those classic whitewall tires, and this is the Phaeton that
knows how to handle its extra power.
The sale comes complete with build receipts, memorabilia, and an
appraiser's report. This is quite a unique build, and because it
leaves you wanting for nothing, it's only meant for someone who
demands the best. Is that you?