Vehicle Description
In 1949, Ford beat GM and Chrysler to the punch with the first
all-new post-war car design from the Big Three. Affectionately
called the "shoebox," the 1949 Ford boasted streamlined and
thoroughly modern ponton styling with the distinct spinner grille
motif that sustained the product line through 1951. Historians
credit the car for saving Ford's fortunes while also ushering in
the modern streamline era in American car design. Under the skin
was an all-new frame with coil-sprung, independent front
suspension. Inline-six and V8 engines carried over mostly
unchanged, producing 90 and 100 horsepower, respectively. Body
styles included the 2-door Club Coupe, "Fordor" sedan, Squire
station wagon, and convertible. The handsome convertible was one of
the best-selling soft tops in the country for 1951, with sales
reaching 40,924 cars. Only available in top-line Custom DeLuxe
trim, it was Ford's flagship model, and despite being costly to
design and build, it served as an image-maker for the company. It
brought folks into Ford showrooms, even if they drove home in a
basic Fordor sedan. As the top of the line, it came only with
Ford's 100-hp flathead V-8 as standard equipment. Convertibles
featured a hydraulic power top for added convenience, operated via
a switch located at the lower edge of the steering column just to
the left of the steering wheel. This lovely 1951 Custom DeLuxe
convertible spent several years in a museum before being acquired
by a noted Ford collector, who oversaw its refurbishment to factory
standards. The orange-red Coral Flame color is unique to this body
style and suits the lines wonderfully. Under the previous owner's
care, the flathead V8 engine was rebuilt completely by the late
John Forsythe at Fremont Auto Parts in Fremont, Ohio, while his own
shop rebuilt the transmission and clutch and fitted an overdrive.
They also replaced the top and reupholstered the interior using
correct two-tone fawn materials sourced from the Ford specialists,
LeBaron-Bonney. The front seat is leather and the rear seat vinyl,
which is accurate and just as the factory did it in 1951. Restorers
also rewired the entire car, so that the power top works properly
and ensuring this handsome Ford is a reliable and enjoyable driver.
The Coral Flame paintwork is in excellent overall condition,
consistent with this being a high-quality, older restoration. The
chrome trim is in fine order as well and includes original Custom
DeLuxe window surrounds, as well as the hood ornament, bodyside
trims, tail light spears, and 1951-only twin "spinner" grille. The
comfortable and spacious interior features correct rubber floor
mats, a factory AM radio, DeLuxe steering wheel, and excellent
chrome fittings and trim. The quality detailing continues under the
hood, with the 100-horsepower flathead painted the correct bronze
color and adorned with authentic decals and labels. Indeed, this is
one of the previous owner's favorite automobiles for taking out and
using around town, and it has been maintained as a strong-running
highway car. It would be delightful for the next owner on various
AACA and VMCCA touring events, as well as for simple outings for
ice cream on a summer evening. Offers welcome and trades considered
For additional details please view this listing directly on our
website
https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/6590-1951-ford-custom-deluxe-v-8-convertible/
