1938 Ford DeLuxe Convertible
In 1938, Ford began an effort to distinguish its Standard and DeLuxe models. While the Standard models were built with 1937 front sheet metal, DeLuxe models, such as this one, received new, updated front-end styling, with a curved grille outline and slightly revised side vents for the hood. DeLuxe models also benefited from the addition of dual tail lamps, dual windshield wipers, walnut wood grain window moldings and dash panels, a chrome-plated grille and windshield frame, rear armrests, twin electric air horns, a “banjo” steering wheel, a locking glove-compartment door, and a dash-mounted clock.
Although most automobiles built in the U.S. by this time had closed bodies, open cars still carried an aura of luxury and exclusivity. Even Ford, which perfected mass production, introduced a new open car that combined the best features of a closed body, a cabriolet, and a four-door sedan into one single design.
$900.00 retail price In 1938, Ford produced 415,613 cars. Of that number, 2,703 were convertibles such as this one, making a 1938 Ford convertible sedan a very rare car. This car was donated to the museum in August 2017 by Scott Newhall of Santa Barbara. We are glad to have it as part of our permanent collection.
Year: 1938
Make: Ford
Model: DeLuxe
Style: Convertible
Serial No: N/A
Odometer: N/A
Engine Cyl: N/A
Engine Size: 85 bhp, 221 cubic inch V-8 engine with a 2-barrel Stromberg carburetor
Trans: 3 speed manual
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