Fantasy Junction

Description

1940 Ford Deluxe Coupe Street Rod

VIN – 185287602
Exterior Color – Red
Interior Color – Black Leather
Engine – 350 cu. in. V8
Transmission – 3-speed automatic 350 Turbo (Chevrolet)
Current Miles – 2,763 TMU
Owner Purchase – Current owner purchased in 2018

General Overview

In the automotive world there is nothing more innovative, individualized, and American than the Hot Rod. Custom cars, Street Rods, Lead Sleds, and T-Buckets all contribute to the vast and creative world of hand-built hot rods with a history spanning more than 70 years. And while hot rods quickly became a part of the custom scene in post-war America, the evolution of the 1940 Ford was swift and astonishing when first announced in 1937. Looking at the streamlined body design today, it’s hard to imagine that the first iteration arrived only a decade after the Model T had concluded production. What Ford accomplished in technical and design advances in that ten-year period was nothing short of groundbreaking.

Advances in both the standard and Deluxe model included full fenders, integrated running boards, a smooth dashboard with multiple instrumentation, comfortable seating, and durable V8 power. The Deluxe line was the upscale version between the standard offering and the premium Mercury and Lincoln line. To differentiate the Deluxe, various exterior trim, grille variations, and a more dramatically sloped hood were offered on a wide range of configurations. Over time, these cars have become highly sought after in the hot rod community, especially all steel factory bodied Coupes retaining metal fenders, solid running boards, split rear window, and dramatic sloping rear trunkline.

History and Build Details of This Car

This 1940 Ford Coupe was purchased by the current owner approximately three years ago. The car was essentially purchased in the same condition as it is today, with finishes, mechanicals, stance, and details consistent with contemporary hot rod builds performed over the past two decades. Though the builder is not known, the build has been performed to a high standard, most likely completed 10-15 years ago.

The steel body features a raked stance, lowered body position over nicely radiused wheel openings, and a thoughtful combination of subtle body modifications retaining a stock Ford appearance and original body trim. The 350 V8 engine and modern 3-speed 350 Turbo automatic transmission runs a full-length driveshaft to a solid rear axle on blocked leaf springs, Gas Ryder shocks, rear sway bar, and drum brakes. The front suspension features coil-over shocks suspended by modern tube steel construction A-arms and front disc brakes. The brakes are assisted by a power booster located under the floor, nestled in the forward portion of the X-frame member. The steering rack is a modern unit assisted by power steering.

The 350 V8 engine is outfitted with tube headers which exit to dual exhaust, tucked into the frame along with low profile mufflers concealed within the body-drop line. The engine features polished finned aluminum “Corvette” valve covers, a modern polished alternator, and modern air conditioning which blows cold. A high-rise Edelbrock intake manifold topped by a Weber carburetor, Walker radiator, MSD Electronic ignition and distributor, high profile air cleaner, and firewall remote oil filler.

Condition Overview
Today this Ford Street Rod is ready to enjoy and show. The exterior finish is glossy and smooth, and the various vintage trim and emblems are in excellent condition. The doors, hood, and deck lid all open and shut easily, with very nice panel gaps particularly in the steel doors which open and latch with confidence. The overall body work has been very well done including the louvered hood, body rake, wheel position and stance, and clean front and rear bumpers.

The various trim and emblems throughout the car are in very nice condition with excellent fit and polish including the front grille bars and chrome center hood trim, sculpted belt line trim, and chrome door handles. The chrome headlight trim, side view mirrors, and distinct chevron taillights convey just a few of the recognizable Ford touches these cars are known for. The twin pane V windshield, side glass, and rear glass are all in excellent condition. The car sits on polished wheels which appear to be Halibrand Speedway type rims with knock off centers and BF Goodrich Advantage T/A Radial 195/60R 15 front and 225/70 R16 rear tires.

The interior has been prepared with comfort and cruising in mind. Finished in black leather, the pleated front seat, rear seating, and matching door panels are nicely finished including two drop down center armrests for the front seat passengers. Outfitted with air conditioning, power steering, power brakes, and automatic transmission, the interior also features unique side windows that raise and lower on electric switches levered by the window crank. The bench seat is power adjustable and features rear storage map pockets. The seats hinge forward allowing for access to the rear seat area which is suitable for small adults or soft luggage. The dashboard is painted a matching red color, fronted by a Lecarra leather wrapped steering wheel and column shift selector. A Moon-Eyes tachometer is mounted in the center of the dashboard and a VDO clock is conveniently located inside the glove box door. The upper inner door trim garnishing the side glass has been chrome plated, air conditioning vents have been discretely added to the dashboard center and corners, and the main dash cluster remains essentially stock showing 2,757 miles on the odometer, though total miles are unknown. The trunk is finished with matching black carpeting, Ford logo in red, a fire extinguisher, and a battery cover, concealing the 12V battery which was replaced in February 2021.

Under the hood, the 350 V8 engine is beautifully finished with excellent gloss red paint on the firewall, polished and plated parts, and modern air conditioning. All lines are discreetly mounted and diverted to the lower portion of the firewall. Both power brakes and power steering units are cleverly mounted and function properly. Clearly the build was performed by experienced hot rod and street rod builders who utilized proven suspension, powertrain, and brake components to build this 1940 Ford to a high level of quality. The underside of the car is in excellent condition showing no signs of structural rust. The underside nose area of the body and front cross member display driveway rash typical of low front end street rods encountering steep inclines or tall parking bumpers.

This is a very nice street rod with great build details and comfort amenities suitable for cruising and showing at any hot rod or custom car event. The car is titled in the name of the owner on a clear California title.

Items Included with the Car

The car is accompanied by a California Car Cover and storage bag, a battery tender, and selected spare accessory lights.

Street Rod start/walk. https://youtu.be/U9yBwCs_Bbg

Street Rod drive. https://youtu.be/KFjnI4MnMJk

The above vehicle information is complete and accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time it is posted to this website. Corrections or additional information is always appreciated. All advertised prices exclude government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge, and any emission testing charge. Vehicles are subject to prior sale. All advertised to be true but not guaranteed. We assume no liability for errors or omissions.

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Fantasy Junction  •  510-653-7555  •  1145 Park Ave, Emeryville, CA 94608