Vehicle Description
As the first new postwar models offered by Ford Motor Company, the
redesigned 1949 passenger-car lineup was as crucial to its maker's
ongoing success as the pre-war Model A, Model T, and the
revolutionary V-8 models of 1932. Breaking from tradition with
fresh and modern styling that was lower and wider than before, the
new-for-1949 Fords featured "envelope" styling with fully
integrated fenders and a low, full-width grille delineated by neat
chrome trim and punctuated by a faux jet intake at the center.
Passenger space was good, with the new Fords built upon a new
ladder frame offering a useful, yet rational 114-inch wheelbase.
Mechanical specifications were updated to match the new styling,
with a new wishbone-type front suspension and longitudinal rear
springs replacing the former solid front axles and transverse leaf
springs. As before, both six-cylinder and V-8 engines were
available. A three-speed manual was the sole transmission available
for '49. Standard and upscale Custom trim levels provided further
distinction. Upon their release at New York's posh Waldorf-Astoria
Hotel, they were the first all-new Ford models in more than a
decade. Importantly, their introduction on June 10, 1948, preceded
new-car introductions by archrivals Chrysler and General Motors,
gaining valuable press coverage and positioning Ford as "the
automaker to beat" in the increasingly expansive postwar era. The
1949 Ford models and their fresh, clean styling drew wide praise
and put the warmed-over 1942 styling into the distant past while
positioning Ford for the successes yet to come in the 1950s. The
1951 Ford passenger cars appeared little changed from their 1949
model-year counterparts, however numerous welcomed detail updates
spurred advertisements heralding "51 improvements for '51."
Representing the top of Ford's model range, this Outstanding 1951
Southern Estate Classic Ford Custom Deluxe Convertible is the
product of a Professional Frame Off, Rotisserie, Nut & Bolt Award
Winning Restoration. Total investment exceeds $76,000. Finished in
its original and delightfully appealing shade of Sheridan Blue
paint (only available on Convertibles) over a restored two-tone
red/black leather interior, Black Convertible Top, and a restored
fascia and instruments, the dashing Ford is exquisitely detailed
inside and out. It comes Highly Optioned including Desirable
Enhancements: 3 Speed Manual Transmission "3 on the Tree" Deluxe
Push Button "Stereophonic" Radio Magic Air Heating and Defrost
System Vent Windows Deluxe Hood Ornament Cigar Lighter (Unused)
Courtesy Lamp Manual Choke Clock Backup Lamps Turn Signal
Indicators Factory Spot Light V-8 "Famous Flathead" Engine 239
Cubic Inch Displacement 100 Horsepower Ford Scripted Exhaust
Deflector 6 Volt Electrical System Highly Detailed Engine
Compartment and Undercarriage Wide Whitewall Tires Tan Haartz
Canvas Top with Red Trim Black Boot Cover Ford Scripted "Dog Dish"
Hubcaps Chrome Beauty Rings Chrome Door Edge Protectors Dual Side
View Mirrors Chrome Gas Door Trim Delux Steering Wheel Rear Ribbed
Fender Skirts Front and Rear Bumper Guards Original Owner Manual
Sales Literature As 1951 was the "Last & Best" in the "Shoebox
Fords," many Vintage Ford aficionados consider the Custom Deluxe
Convertible Highly Prized. Of the small number of Custom Deluxe
Convertibles produced in 1951, only a limited number remain in this
condition and color combination. If you are seeking a Great "Shoe
Box Convertible," you will likely be Most Favorably Impressed with
this Magnificent Example. Excellent Throughout. Ready for Show and
Tour. Ask $49,950
