Vehicle Description
If you've never experienced a vintage Ford flathead V8, you need to
stop what you're doing and give us a call on this lovely 1946 Super
Deluxe Coupe. It has been freshened over the years, but retains its
old-time charm and intrinsic goodness that's a big part of the
flathead experience. There's an old adage that says the bad
flatheads are good, and the good ones are great. This one certainly
qualifies for greatness.
The fat-fendered Fords were little updated following the war, but
that didn't matter, since Ford was selling every single car they
could build. With ideal proportions and good looks that have
endured the decades, this is an icon in the automotive world and
beloved around the globe. The handsome light yellow paint is
handsome and period-correct, so it really works on the Ford's
voluptuous curves, especially when it's accented by that much
stainless and chrome trim, although the rear bumper is a little
scruffy. There are a few signs of use and age, but you'll
understand why after you drive it, because it's a lot of fun out on
the open road. Accessories include a driver's side spotlight,
bumper guards, and blue-dot taillights, all of which are in
outstanding condition. The Ford may have been affordable
transportation, but it sure didn't look the part.
The interior was restored to give the car a period look, and the
original front bench seat has been retained. The tan fabric is
upscale and maybe a little modern-looking, but it offers durability
and comfort and the stitching was done in the original style. The
original gauges were retained (though two of them need replacement
faces), augmented by a column-mounted tach and an original steering
wheel that has obviously been refinished. Round pedals were a Ford
trademark for many years, and the column-mounted shifter works with
just your fingertips, making this car easy to drive. An accessory
heater is always a welcome addition for those chilly fall tours,
and the original AM radio remains in the dash. The trunk is
absolutely massive and has been upholstered to match the interior,
so it's much nicer than original and even with a matching
full-sized spare, there's plenty of room for a long road trip.
The driving experience is what makes Ford flatheads so special.
With a traditional V8 rumble that takes on a harder edge during
acceleration, the over-achieving 239 cubic inch powerplant moves
the handsome coupe with effortless ease. Finely tuned and idling
smoothly like any good flathead, it shows none of the mythological
issues like overheating or vapor lock, and instead just goes about
its business without a second thought. It stays nice and cool on
the hottest days, pulls hard without running out of breath, and is
happy to cruise at 60 MPH on the highway. It's also nice to see
that it retains its 6-volt electrical system, carburetor, and
manifolds, so it runs like the factory intended. Underneath, this
one is pretty original, but you can see it has nothing to hide, and
the dual exhaust sound right. Flashy 16-inch wheels with hubcaps,
trim rings, and 6.00-16 whitewalls complete the look and keep it in
the right era.
These Fords have a rugged, agile feel on the road, and with a
little TLC, this neat '46 coupe could be a big score for someone
who loves the '40s. Catch flathead fever and call today!