Vehicle Description
1936 Ford Model 68 Deluxe Phaeton
Open cars were trending down by 1936 but Ford kept a few models
going to appeal to the faithful market of those preferring a
sporty, open-road experience. And indeed, less than 6,000 Model
68's were built with their fixed windshields and "wind wings"
hinging on the windshield frame. Other than that glass and the
cloth top, weather protection was at a minimum. By today's
standards, a truly open car would be exclusive for sunny days and
stored inside...but in 1936, a little wind protection was a
sufficient buffer for a spirited drive....they were used and
adored.
For consignment, this 1936 Ford Model 68 Deluxe Phaeton - an early
Ford with some unique touches. It's hard to know how many are still
"on the road" but let's just say they were uncommon in 1936 and
likely rare today. Powered by a flathead V8 and backed up with a
3-speed with a Mitchell overdrive unit we are face to face with
elegant and stunning styling, this restored classic is a standout
among Ford body styles and a highly collectable version for those
in the know.
Exterior
Stainless steel grille bars and a chromed windshield frame set this
'36 Ford apart. Instantly recognizable as an upscale model, this
"68" is painted a period correct Bambolino Blue which suits this
body style like a charm. A few chips, cracks and touch ups are
noted throughout the body, but they are not enough to detract from
the overall charm. The massive vertical grille is flanked by sealed
headlights and rally/fog lights mounted on the chrome bumper which
is adorned with a double line detail - a feature that adds depth
and character to an otherwise utilitarian piece of equipment. Atop
the grille sits...or sprints...the iconic Ford greyhound hood
ornament...leaping over the V8 insignia. The long, vented hood
could almost serve as an airplane runway - stupendous proportions
that seem regal by today's standards. Then, the flat body line,
unobstructed by windows, continues the length of the car,
terminating at the canvas top which shrouds the back of the car.
The top continues over the top like a baseball cap brim, attaching
to the front windshield. The rear window is framed in polished
metal - another standout detail of this automobile. The
rear-mounted spare tire is enclosed in a color-coordinated hard
case, complete with the Ford logo. Just above the wheel is a third
brake light, (not mandated until 60 years later!), - you can never
be too safe as you parade your show car around! The 16-inch solid
wheels look stunning with dog dish hubcaps and ringed with wide
white wall tires.
Interior
Let's first note the banjo steering wheel, a standard for the
Deluxe. Beyond that, the rich brown tones invite you in like a pub
booth - a place where you'll be comfortable sitting for a while.
The seats are not unlike soft leather couches - no bolstered
buckets here to keep you far from your loved one. Cuddle up as you
peer together at the burlwood dashboard encasing a Waltham
speedometer and authentic period gauges. No plastic bits here
either...the hardware is metal and robust. The stitched door panels
box you in with more brown warmth. And oh...that back seat! With
its long floor pan and dedicated windshield, you, (or your kids),
will feel like chauffeured royalty as you gleefully wave to the
plebians on your way to the car show! This is an impressive space
and the soft top adds to the adventure like a covered wagon
crossing the plains! Sidecurtains are available in lieu of actual
windows and match the convertible top.
Drivetrain
The flathead V8 is now legendary and this car sports the 221ci
moniker. When everyone else was offering sixes, Ford stepped up
with this 85 horsepower dynamo and created what's considered one of
the 10 best engines of the 20th century, (Ward's Autoworld
Magazine). A single 2-barrel carburetor is topped by the correct
air intake and filter looking small in 2024..but fed by the huge
grille. A three-speed manual with Mitchell overdrive is present
which is met by 4.11 gears in this rear-wheel-drive Ford
flagship.
Undercarriage
The Ford X-member catches your eyes as the dominant structure
underneath, boxed in by substantial side rails. The exhaust
manifolds join to one pipe, passing through a stock style muffler
on its way to exiting modestly before the rear bumper. Transverse
springs are standard here as are upgraded hydraulic drum brakes on
all four. Only minor patina and seepage reveals that this has been
a well-cared for car, devoid of red flags that would be of
concern.
Drive-ability
Turns out Fords equipped with flatheads were the preferred getaway
cars for bank robbers because of the full pressure lubrication that
was trustworthy to 3,500rpm. We didn't test that theory on the
drive but noted a smooth running V8 powering a cloud-like ride on
16-inch tires. One feels stately driving this car and it's probably
almost as fun being a passenger in the back seat. The drums stop
the car straight and true and the 144-foot pounds of torque is more
than enough to accelerate the car which weighs less than 3,000
pounds. All functions operational and a ear to ear grin was left on
my face upon returning back from the test track.
With its dual windshields, lack of roll-up windows, and elegant
presentation, this Model 68 Deluxe Phaeton is clearly a special
vehicle. In the world of early Ford V8's, this one sits high on the
pyramid of collectability and we're proud to have it grace our
Hallowed Halls...until the next owner comes along. A must-have for
the pre-war enthusiast.
Classic Auto Mall is home to more than 1,000 classic and
collectible vehicles for sale via consignment in a climate
controlled 336,000-square foot showroom (that's more than 8
acres!).
The largest single location consignment dealer of classic and
collectible vehicles in the country is located in Morgantown,
Pennsylvania, just 1-hour west of Philadelphia off Exit 298 of the
I-76 Pennsylvania Turnpike.
For more information visit www.classicautomall.com or call us at
(888) 227-0914. Contact us anytime for more information or to come
see the vehicle in person.
With so many great cars, you know we have a lot to talk about, and
we do that each week on the Classic Auto Mall Podcast with host
Stewart Howden. Stewart discusses new inventory as well as trends
in consignments and car prices, while interviewing celebrities and
automotive professionals about amazing cars and their history.
Tune in each week to the Classic Auto Mall Podcast wherever you
enjoy listening. You can also watch on YouTube!
