Vehicle Description
In the wake of World War II, the automotive industry witnessed the
birth of an icon: the Ford Super Deluxe Sportsman Convertible. This
model emerged from the creative minds at Ford, spearheaded by Henry
Ford II, designer Bob Gregorie, and head illustrator Ross Cousins.
The initial inspiration came from a nostalgic piece of Henry Ford
II's youth-a wood-bodied Model A roadster. Seeking to recapture
this essence, the team embarked on creating a "halo car" for Ford
dealerships, a vehicle that, while not mass-produced, would draw in
customers and showcase Ford's pinnacle of craftsmanship. The
Sportsman was manufactured at the Iron Mountain plant in Michigan,
employing standard convertible body shells augmented with sedan
delivery fenders and taillights. The exterior was a testament to
fine craftsmanship, featuring panels of the finest maple, birch,
and mahogany, each carved from solid wood. The attention to detail
extended to the interiors as well, with seats adorned in genuine
leather facings, available in tan or red, and complemented by
French stitching. The car boasted a power top and power windows,
including rear quarter panes-a luxury at the time. Production of
the Sportsman was limited to the years 1946 and 1947, with a few
models retitled and sold in 1948. Priced $500 above the standard
convertible, it was a luxury item, offering a style and quality
that rivaled the top-end models from competitors like GM and
Chrysler. Despite its limited run, the Sportsman left a lasting
impact, with a total of 3,629 units built over three years,
including 205 Mercurys exclusive to 1946. Design-wise, the
Sportsman was a harmonious blend of practicality and luxury. The
car was structurally steel, differentiating it from competitors
like Chrysler's Town and Country, which used structurally wood body
panels. This design choice ensured durability, as the doors were
less prone to sagging over time. The vehicle incorporated the rear
fenders from a 1941 sedan delivery model, facilitating easier wood
fitment. The power hydraulic window system was a feature borrowed
from the Lincoln Continental, adding a touch of elegance and
convenience. The 1947 model offered here, one of fewer than 100
examples believed to have survived, is a well-preserved older
restoration. The woodwork is of very good quality inside and out
with a light patina to the finish. The fenders and hood are
attractively finished in Tucson Tan which is in good overall
condition, with a few minor imperfections noted. Matching wheels
which have hand-painted red pinstripes for added style are fitted
with Super Deluxe wheel covers and trim rings and fitted with new
Firestone wide whitewall tires. Chrome and brightwork are in very
nice condition and the engine bay is well detailed and fitted with
period-correct decals, wiring, and hoses. Installed options include
period correct fog lights, bumper guards, radio, and a factory
heater. The interior of the Sportsman was a work of art, featuring
an Art Deco-inspired dash in mahogany, accented with handsome
color-keyed trim. Every aspect of its design was aimed at
showcasing Ford's ability to produce a premium model. It served as
a flagship vehicle, not just in terms of luxury and aesthetics, but
as a symbol of Ford's innovation and commitment to excellence in
the post-war era. The tidy interior is fitted with correct red
leather upholstery with tan carpets bound in red, and a new tan
Hartz cloth convertible top and boot have recently been fitted. The
engine compartment is very well detailed and this car is fitted
with a Columbia two-speed rear axle, giving it longer legs for
highway cruising. A timeless design coupled with a low survival
rate has made the Super Deluxe Sportsman Convertible one of the
most sought-after of the great woodies, as well as one of the most
collectable post-war Fords, and this example is made all the more
appealing by its well-maintained older restoration. In essence, the
Ford Sportsman Convertible was more than just a car; it was a
statement piece, a testament to Ford's vision and craftsmanship in
an era of renewed hope and progress. Offers welcome and trades
considered For additional details please view this listing directly
on our website
https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/7588-1947-ford-sportsman-convertible/
