1933 Ford 40 Roadster
When the Model 40 and the new B were introduced February 9, 1933, revisions of the car were substantial, especially considering how important the 1932 change had been. The grille was revised, gaining a pointed forward slope at the bottom which resembled either a spade, a Medieval shield, or possibly the 1932 Packard Light Eight in general outline anyway. Both the grille and hood louvers curved down and forward. The overall design and grille were inspired by the English Ford Model Y.
For consignment we have a 1933 voluptuous Rubenesque design Windsor exterior gal, meets Sheridan style western cowgirl with a truly artistic hand tooled leather interior. It does not skimp on the class either with a LeBaron Bonney leather seating setup, Lebaron Bonney convertible top and very tasteful Folkstone Gray over black fender motif. A show car for sure, or a rolling work of art if you will, throw your mother in law into the rear rumbler, and go for a head turning drive.
Exterior
Pushing the edge of resto-mod status, this car retains its original charm and design on the exterior by utilizing a two tone Folkstone Gray body, and black fenders and running boards. Ford designers were hitting their stride in the early 30's and this sporty design of a 2 seater car allows for throwing caution to the wind. Deluxe chromed headlights flank the chromed curved and pointed at the bottom "shield" style grille and "bump out" center bumper below. Even down to the cowl venting which gets progressively larger as you go back to the suicide doors, no stone was left unturned on the design aspect. From the running greyhound on the hood, dual chromed horns, to the rear enclosed spare tire she is just beautifully restored and preserved with near showroom condition overall. Straw colored wire wheels are wrapped in wide whites, and a nice front to rear size offset gives this car an aggressive stance when viewed from the side. Just a bit of modern and pushing it a bit further into the rest-mod realm.
Interior
Like a well worn cowboy boot, we see painstakingly hand tooled leather panels on the doors, interior headliner, kick panels, seat surrounds, shifter boot, and even the front cowl and kick panels inside the rumble seat. This mixes beautifully with the Lebaron Bonney leather bench, and rear rumbler. Upfront an original wood grained dash complete with VDO gauges and original like steering wheel, mix in perfectly with the concept, and all is all buttoned up and clean. A period radio cover is noted as well as the oval mirror now complete with an inserted clock. It's necessary for one to see it in person to appreciate the craftsmanship seen on this car, particularly the interior.
Drivetrain
This mobile masterpiece is urged forward by a 350 Chevrolet mill that is fed by a Holley Carburetor, Edelbrock intake, headers, and a Griffin High Performance radiator to keep all cylinders cool, calm and collective. A TH350 tranny is strapped to the back go this mill, and way back, is a Ford 9-inch rear axle setup.
Undercarriage
A TCI chassis rust free and like new holds on to coil over suspension on all 4 corners, and power front disc brakes. No runs drops or errors underneath
Drive-Ability
I saddled up and with a turn of the key the 350 came to life immediately. Giddy-up! with a push of the pedal and I was off in a cloud of dust. Wonderful acceleration, great handling with a modern feel (see ya 1933!) and smooth and secure braking. The TH350 shifted smoothly, and I was truly in Sheridan heaven. Noted due to a passenger hinge problem the top will not go up and down. All other functions were just perfect.
A showpiece, some may say unusual, other will be enamored as this writer was. A unique mix of 1930's styling, leather craftsmanship and a talented designer's pen, this is a true turnkey work of art car. Giddy-up... and Happy trails to you...until we meet again!