Prewar Fords have always made outstanding hot rod foundations, and
few body styles carry the same sleek presence as the 1937 Ford
Slantback. With its streamlined fastback profile, graceful fender
lines, and unmistakable prewar styling, the Slantback offers a look
that stands apart from the more commonly seen coupes and sedans.
This 1937 Ford Model 78 takes that already attractive design and
pairs it with a carefully assembled street rod build that was
created to be driven, enjoyed, and appreciated for both its classic
style and modern usability.
Finished in Porsche Guards Red, this Ford immediately commands
attention. The bold color works exceptionally well with the
Slantback's flowing body lines and gives the car a clean, timeless
hot rod look without straying too far from the traditional spirit
of the build. Adding to the presentation are Boyd Coddington
Smoothie wheels wrapped in new 3-inch whitewall tires, a
combination that gives the car just the right balance of street rod
attitude and vintage-inspired character. The body is steel,
including the front fenders, while the rear fenders are fiberglass.
Overall, the car presents well, but it is important to note that
there are some paint and body imperfections, along with a cracked
passenger-side rear tinted glass panel.
Under the hood sits a 302 cubic-inch Ford V8 backed by a C4
automatic transmission, a proven and dependable combination that
delivers the kind of easy drivability most enthusiasts want in a
classic street rod. The engine bay was built with function in mind
and includes a Walker four-core radiator, twin electric fans, and a
transmission cooler to help keep temperatures under control during
summer cruising. The car starts easily, runs strong, and drives
very well, making it the kind of hot rod that can actually be
enjoyed on the road rather than simply admired in the garage.
The chassis and suspension were upgraded to improve drivability and
reliability, beginning with a Mustang II front end and front disc
brakes. Out back is a Ford Maverick 8-inch rear end along with Ford
Courier pickup rear leaf springs, while a 1974 Ford Pinto master
cylinder and 1977 Chevrolet Monza pedal assembly were incorporated
into the build. The car rides on a 5x4.5 bolt pattern, giving the
next owner flexibility when it comes to future wheel choices if
desired.
Inside, this Ford reflects the practical, custom-built nature of
the build. 1984 Dodge Daytona front seats were fitted, while the
factory rear seat was upholstered to match, creating a cohesive
look throughout the cabin. A 1976 Oldsmobile tilt steering column
adds comfort and adjustability, and a full set of VDO gauges
provides clear, modern instrumentation. The car is also equipped
with a heater for cooler-weather driving. A wiper arm is included
with the car, although it is currently removed. The front
windshield retains its desirable crank-out design, one of the
charming period features that helps preserve the personality of the
original car even within a modified build.
Additional custom touches include 1939 Ford-style teardrop LED
taillights, an LTL poly fuel tank, and a Gordy Lubahn wiring
system, all of which speak to the thought that went into the
construction of the car. Importantly, this Slantback was built by
Kevin Lubahn's Rod & Customs, and a folder of build receipts
accompanies the sale to help document the work that went into
creating it. That paperwork adds a valuable layer of history and
credibility to the build, especially for buyers who appreciate
knowing who assembled the car and what components were used along
the way.
This is not a fresh six-figure show rod, nor is it represented as
flawless. Instead, it is an honest, well-sorted street rod with
attractive styling, a dependable drivetrain, and a quality
foundation that has already been thoughtfully assembled. The
cosmetic imperfections and cracked rear glass are worth noting, but
they do not take away from the overall appeal of a car that is
clearly meant to be driven and enjoyed.
For someone looking for a prewar Ford with standout styling, a
strong-running small-block Ford V8, automatic transmission,
upgraded suspension and braking, and documented build history, this
1937 Ford Slantback Model 78 offers a lot to like. With its Porsche
Guards Red finish, Boyd Coddington wheels, thoughtful component
selection, and classic street rod personality, it is a distinctive
hot rod that is ready for local shows, weekend cruises, and the
next chapter of enjoyment on the open road.
South Jersey Classics is a 10,000-square-foot classic and specialty
collector automobile dealer, featuring 50+ vehicles. This vehicle
is located in our showroom in Newfield, NJ. Our Dealership is on US
Route 40 just off New Jersey Route 55, Exit 39B heading towards
Elmer, NJ; conveniently just 40 Minutes East of Philadelphia, 40
Minutes West from the Major New Jersey Shore Points, and 30 minutes
North of the Delaware Memorial Bridge. Our Showroom is conveniently
accessible from all major Southern New Jersey Roadways including
New Jersey Turnpike, I-295, I-76, NJ Route 42, NJ Route 55, US
Route 40, Atlantic City Expressway, and New Jersey Parkway. Our
website is www.SJClassics.com and our phone number is (856)
521-0832. Don't hesitate to contact us anytime for more information
or to come to see the vehicle in person. Please be sure to view all
of our HD photos directly at our website www.SJClassics.com for the
best viewing experience
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