1936 Ford Model 68

1936 Ford Model 68 Deluxe Phaeton

For consignment, this 1936 Ford Model 68 Deluxe Phaeton an early Ford with some unique touches. It\'s hard to know how many are still \"on the road\" but let\'s just say they were uncommon in 1936 and likely rare today. Powered by a flathead V8 and backed up with a 3-speed with a Mitchell overdrive unit we are face to face with elegant and stunning styling, this restored classic is a standout among Ford body styles and a highly collectable version for those in the know.

Exterior
Stainless steel grille bars and a chromed windshield frame set this \'36 Ford apart. Instantly recognizable as an upscale model, this \"68\" is painted a period correct Bambolino Blue which suits this body style like a charm. A few chips, cracks and touch ups are noted throughout the body, but they are not enough to detract from the overall charm. The massive vertical grille is flanked by sealed headlights and rally/fog lights mounted on the chrome bumper which is adorned with a double line detail a feature that adds depth and character to an otherwise utilitarian piece of equipment. Atop the grille sits...or sprints...the iconic Ford greyhound hood ornament...leaping over the V8 insignia. The long, vented hood could almost serve as an airplane runway stupendous proportions that seem regal by today\'s standards. Then, the flat body line, unobstructed by windows, continues the length of the car, terminating at the canvas top which shrouds the back of the car. The top continues over the top like a baseball cap brim, attaching to the front windshield. The rear window is framed in polished metal another standout detail of this automobile. The rear-mounted spare tire is enclosed in a color-coordinated hard case, complete with the Ford logo. Just above the wheel is a third brake light, (not mandated until 60 years later!), you can never be too safe as you parade your show car around! The 16-inch solid wheels look stunning with dog dish hubcaps and ringed with wide white wall tires.

Interior
Let\'s first note the banjo steering wheel, a standard for the Deluxe. Beyond that, the rich brown tones invite you in like a pub booth a place where you\'ll be comfortable sitting for a while. The seats are not unlike soft leather couches no bolstered buckets here to keep you far from your loved one. Cuddle up as you peer together at the burlwood dashboard encasing a Waltham speedometer and authentic period gauges. No plastic bits here either...the hardware is metal and robust. The stitched door panels box you in with more brown warmth. And oh...that back seat! With its long floor pan and dedicated windshield, you, (or your kids), will feel like chauffeured royalty as you gleefully wave to the plebians on your way to the car show! This is an impressive space and the soft top adds to the adventure like a covered wagon crossing the plains! Sidecurtains are available in lieu of actual windows and match the convertible top.

Drivetrain
The flathead V8 is now legendary and this car sports the 221ci moniker. When everyone else was offering sixes, Ford stepped up with this 85 horsepower dynamo and created what\'s considered one of the 10 best engines of the 20th century, (Ward\'s Autoworld Magazine). A single 2-barrel carburetor is topped by the correct air intake and filter looking small in 2024..but fed by the huge grille. A three-speed manual with Mitchell overdrive is present which is met by 4.11 gears in this rear-wheel-drive Ford flagship.

Undercarriage
The Ford X-member catches your eyes as the dominant structure underneath, boxed in by substantial side rails.The exhaust manifolds join to one pipe, passing through a stock style muffler on its way to exiting modestly before the rear bumper. Transverse springs are standard here as are upgraded hydraulic drum brakes on all four. Only minor patina and seepage reveals that this has been a well-cared for car, devoid of red flags that would be of concern.

Drive-ability
Turns out Fords equipped with flatheads were the preferred getaway cars for bank robbers because of the full pressure lubrication that was trustworthy to 3,500rpm. We didn\'t test that theory on the drive but noted a smooth running V8 powering a cloud-like ride on 16-inch tires. One feels stately driving this car and it\'s probably almost as fun being a passenger in the back seat. The drums stop the car straight and true and the 144-foot pounds of torque is more than enough to accelerate the car which weighs less than 3,000 pounds. All functions operational and a ear to ear grin was left on my face upon returning back from the test track.

With its dual windshields, lack of roll-up windows, and elegant presentation, this Model 68 Deluxe Phaeton is clearly a special vehicle. In the world of early Ford V8\'s, this one sits high on the pyramid of collectability and we\'re proud to have it grace our Hallowed Halls...until the next

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