Vehicle Description
1933 Ford 40 Cabriolet
When the Model 40 and the new B were introduced February 9, 1933,
revisions of the car were substantial, especially considering how
important the 1932 change had been. The grille was revised, gaining
a pointed forward slope at the bottom which resembled either a
spade, a Medieval shield, or possibly the 1932 Packard Light Eight
in general outline anyway. Both the grille and hood louvers curved
down and forward. The overall design and grille were inspired by
the English Ford Model Y.
For consignment we have a 1933 voluptuous Rubenesque design Windsor
exterior gal, meets Sheridan style western cowgirl with a truly
artistic hand tooled leather interior. It does not skimp on the
class either with a LeBaron Bonney leather seating setup, Lebaron
Bonney convertible top and very tasteful Folkstone Gray over black
fender motif. A show car for sure, or a rolling work of art if you
will, throw your mother in law into the rear rumbler, and go for a
head turning drive.
Exterior
Pushing the edge of resto-mod status, this car retains its original
charm and design on the exterior by utilizing a two tone Folkstone
Gray fiberglass body, and black fenders and running boards. Ford
designers were hitting their stride in the early 30's and this
sporty design of a 2 seater car allows for throwing caution to the
wind. Deluxe chromed headlights flank the chromed curved and
pointed at the bottom "shield" style grille and "bump out" center
bumper below. Even down to the cowl venting which gets
progressively larger as you go back to the suicide doors, no stone
was left unturned on the design aspect. From the running greyhound
on the hood, dual chromed horns, to the rear enclosed spare tire
she is just beautifully restored and preserved with near showroom
condition overall. Straw colored wire wheels are wrapped in wide
whites, and a nice front to rear size offset gives this car an
aggressive stance when viewed from the side. Just a bit of modern
and pushing it a bit further into the rest-mod realm.
Interior
Like a well worn cowboy boot, we see painstakingly hand tooled
leather panels on the doors, interior headliner, kick panels, seat
surrounds, shifter boot, and even the front cowl and kick panels
inside the rumble seat. This mixes beautifully with the Lebaron
Bonney leather bench, and rear rumbler. Upfront an original wood
grained dash complete with VDO gauges and original like steering
wheel, mix in perfectly with the concept, and all is all buttoned
up and clean. A period radio cover is noted as well as the oval
mirror now complete with an inserted clock. It's necessary for one
to see it in person to appreciate the craftsmanship seen on this
car, particularly the interior.
Drivetrain
This mobile masterpiece is urged forward by a 350 Chevrolet mill
that is fed by a Holley Carburetor, Edelbrock intake, headers, and
a Griffin High Performance radiator to keep all cylinders cool,
calm and collective. A TH350 tranny is strapped to the back go this
mill, and way back, is a Ford 9-inch rear axle setup.
Undercarriage
A TCI chassis rust free and like new holds on to coil over
suspension on all 4 corners, and power front disc brakes. No runs
drops or errors underneath
Drive-Ability
I saddled up and with a turn of the key the 350 came to life
immediately. Giddy-up! with a push of the pedal and I was off in a
cloud of dust. Wonderful acceleration, great handling with a modern
feel (see ya 1933!) and smooth and secure braking. The TH350
shifted smoothly, and I was truly in Sheridan heaven. Noted due to
a passenger hinge problem the top will not go up and down. All
other functions were just perfect.
A showpiece, some may say unusual, other will be enamored as this
writer was. A unique mix of 1930's styling, leather craftsmanship
and a talented designer's pen, this is a true turnkey work of art
car. Giddy-up... and Happy trails to you...until we meet again!