Vehicle Description
Chassis No. 183554698
Marketed as the car for those with the "Spirit of Youth," the 1936
Ford De Luxe Roadster combined fresh styling with mechanical
refinement. Designed by Holden "Bob" Koto of Briggs, it featured a
lower-profile convertible top, chromed windshield, rumble seat, and
upscale trim. A redesigned nose improved cooling for the 85-hp 221
cu-in V8, while a smoother, quieter transmission used helical gears
and synchronizers. New pressed steel "spider" wheels replaced the
earlier wire spokes, completing the Roadster's new look.
Purchased by Carl Burnett of San Diego, California in the 1990s,
this Roadster was still in stock configuration showing an older
restoration. Wanting to create his ideal version of a mildly
customized Ford Roadster, Burnett embarked on a comprehensive
restoration project to fulfill his dream. Documented in the
accompanying comprehensive history file, the original steel
Roadster body was prepared for refinishing by Merle Rhodes, with
the paintwork handled by Curt Holmquist. The car was finished in
subtle period-correct Washington Blue with an interior upholstered
in saddle leather. Power was improved with a Ford 302 cu-in V8
installed, mated to a C4 three-speed automatic transmission and a
nine-inch rear axle, all hung on a TCI chassis. Offering a reprieve
from the weather are cream-colored side curtains matching the soft
top with a rear window that can be lowered while the roof remains
raised for increased ventilation. The car rides on body-colored
steel wheels adorned with chrome hubcaps, trim rings, and wide
whitewall tires. Should more than three want to experience the joy
of this Roadster at once, the rumble seat provides additional
seating. For added convenience, the steering column was replaced
with a tilting steering wheel and electric power steering. This
work was all documented in two binders that included an abundance
of receipts and photographs from the renowned specialist shops.
Once completed in the early 2000s, the car was successfully shown
throughout the Western United States from Oregon to Arizona,
earning many awards and accolades along the way. The current owner
of the car was so impressed by the quality of the restoration and
blend of street rod features; he made several attempts to buy the
car to no avail. It wasn't until the unfortunate passing of Burnett
that he was able to acquire the car in 2011 when it was finally
able to join his notable Southern California based collection with
a spectacular collection of magnificent pre and post war American
and European collector cars. Since then, the car has remained in
their climate controlled facility and maintained by their in-house
mechanic. As a result, this lovely V8 De Luxe Roadster remains a
charming and compelling offering today. With the opportunity to
enjoy wonderful open-air motoring with the power and performance
from the V8, this sporting example is sure to continue in the
Spirit of Youth for years to come.
