1950 Ford Crestliner - Upgraded Flathead V8
The Ford Crestliner was a limited-production 6 passenger coupe, designed to compete with the new Chevrolet Bel Air. Based on the Ford Tudor (two-door) Club Coupe, special trim, side moldings, textured vinyl top, custom hubcaps, paint colors and interior were added to set the Crestliner apart from the crowd. In 1950, Ford produced a total of over 800,000 cars, however, their lowest production model was the Crestliner, with just 8,703 being made. Today, few remain and when seen, many think they are a customized car, not a factory production model.
This particular car was built at the Ford Long Beach, California plant and sold new on October 11, 1950 by T. Lyell Puckett, the Ford dealer in Alhambra. The buyer, Joseph J. Nehr, traded-in his 1937 Ford V8 4-Door Sedan (for an allowance of $245.69!) and after adding the optional “Magic Air” heater to the invoice, the total purchase price was $2,146.20. After Mr. Nehr’s ownership, this Crestliner came to Oregon where it was enjoyed by 3 subsequent owners.
In 2009/2010, it was restored. Refinished in correct “Coronation Red Metallic” body with black coves/accents (as original), and today showing beautifully with only normal signs of use. No dents or damage. Body is straight with excellent panel fit. The chrome and trim were re-plated and show brightly today. The interior was completely reupholstered in correct two-tone red/gray Bedford cord fabric with black leatherette bolsters and red piping; it is a knockout. No stains, tears or damage.
Under the hood, the original 239 cubic inch, 100 HP flathead V8 was upgraded with higher-compression Mercury EAC cylinder heads, an Offenhauser intake manifold, Weber 8867 4-barrel carburetor and electronic ignition, creating around 125+ horsepower flowing out through the dual exhaust system.
This car starts easily, runs smoothly and is a pleasure to drive. Plenty of power on the highway and easily keeps up with modern traffic. Auxiliary electric fuel pump for ease of starting after periods in the garage. 3-speed manual transmission shifts crisply. Brakes stop smooth and straight. All gauges work and register accurately. Radio hums but does not sing. Undercarriage and under the hood are clean and rust-free as would be expected from a car that has lived on the west coast for the past 75 years.
There is little to add. If you are looking for a seldom-seen vintage Ford that can be enjoyed in the modern world, this is it.
WE WILL HAPPILY SELL TO BUYERS WORLDWIDE AND CAN ASSIST WITH SHIPPING ANYWHERE.
