Vehicle Description
Highly coveted today as the ultimate Ford model of the 1930s, the
1939 Station Wagon or "Woodie" combined iconic styling directed by
Edsel Ford in collaboration with E.T. "Bob" Gregorie with the
upscale appeal and utility offered by its spacious wood-bodied
passenger compartment. New hydraulic brakes, revised cylinder heads
for the "Flathead" V-8, and welcome detail improvements provided
mechanical sophistication to match its striking design, making
Ford's 1939 Station Wagon a true Classic Era masterpiece on all
counts. Thanks to Ford's publicity department, which had long
before perfected the art of product placement, Station Wagons were
in the hands of top celebrities, at the front of parades, and shown
in many movies. The era's top entertainers, including Clark Gable
and Carole Lombard, Bette Davis, and Mickey Rooney, all owned Ford
Station Wagons. Later, hot rodders added more power and mechanical
updates, making the great basic vehicle even better. This
outstanding example clearly benefits from a top-quality restoration
with a reported $15,000 spent on the interior alone. Henry's old
Flathead was replaced by a modern Chevrolet 350 cubic-inch V-8
engine, highly detailed and equipped with polished goodies,
components, and accessories. A GM 700R4 overdrive automatic
transmission provides cruising ease. Improved cooling is provided
by an aluminum radiator. A modern Chevy front suspension was
fitted, including power steering gear with tilt wheel, and the
brakes were upgraded to power-assist. Passenger comfort is assured
with the welcome addition of air conditioning, and if the music
from the exhaust pipes is not enough, the "Woodie" has been
equipped with a hidden stereo unit including remote control and
iPod connectivity. Retaining its slatted headlining and period
feel, the interior also features modern but period-style
instruments. The vehicle's iconic exterior and overall presence is
beautifully enhanced by real period-type Appleton fog lamps and a
set of Halibrand-style wheels. Yet another exciting feature is the
set of original 1939 California license plates, commemorating the
1939 New York World's Fair, which are currently registered to the
vehicle. Stunning inside and out, very well-equipped, and blending
the best classic styling with enhanced drivability, this
top-quality 1939 Ford "Woodie" is a can't miss offering and simply
must be seen.
