The 1936 Ford Model 68 Deluxe three-window coupe represents more than just a pre-war classic; it is a rolling family archive. Acquired by the seller’s grandfather in 1943, this vehicle transitioned from a standard driver into a customized hot rod during the 1950s. It carries the distinct personality of the post-war era when owners reshaped Detroit steel to reflect their own adventurous spirits. Unlike many modern builds that mimic the past, this car possesses authentic historical gravity. It survives today as a rare example of a long-term family treasure with a documented mechanical evolution. This coupe offers a direct connection to the early days of American custom car culture.
Decades of Custom Bodywork and Styling
The exterior of this 1936 Ford Model 68 Deluxe displays styling cues that were popular during its mid-century transformation. A custom bullnose treatment on the hood and a flush-mounted fuel filler provide a sleek, uninterrupted silhouette. Custom bumpers and a center-mount license plate further distinguish the body from its factory origins. The car received a lacquer repaint in the 1980s, which has aged alongside the vintage chrome trim. Period-correct 15-inch wheels wear 1950 Mercury hubcaps and classic whitewall tires to complete the look. These modifications represent a thoughtful approach to personalizing one of Ford’s most elegant designs.
Unique Interior Modifications and History
Inside the 1936 Ford Model 68 Deluxe, the cabin reveals the practical needs of its long-term owner. The dashboard features additional Stewart-Warner gauges housed within a split glove box door for better visibility. Interestingly, the bulkhead to the trunk was removed decades ago so the owner could sleep in the car during long trips. In place of a traditional heater core, the dashboard now incorporates a custom storage shelf and drawer. Black leather upholstery from the 1980s covers the seating surfaces, maintaining a clean and timeless look. These personal touches offer a fascinating glimpse into the utilitarian life this coupe led over eighty years.
Flathead V8 Engineering and Eddie Meyer Hardware
Mechanical performance in the 1936 Ford Model 68 Deluxe centers around a legendary 24-bolt flathead V8 engine. Rebuilt in the 1990s for larger displacement, the powerplant features desirable Eddie Meyer aluminum heads and a matching intake. Dual Stromberg 97 carburetors sit atop the engine to provide the necessary fuel flow for increased power. A Mallory ignition system and custom headers ensure the flathead breathes and fires with modern reliability. Power moves to the rear wheels via a three-speed manual transmission likely sourced from a 1940 model. This drivetrain preserves the mechanical feel and sound that defined the early California hot rod scene.
Power, Engine Specs, and Performance Handling
The 24-bolt flathead V8 delivers a smooth and rhythmic exhaust note that is a hallmark of pre-war Ford performance. With the addition of the Eddie Meyer components, the engine offers significantly more torque than a stock 1936 configuration. Newer-model hydraulic drum brakes provide more consistent stopping power than the original mechanical units found in early Fords. The suspension and rear end were similarly updated during the build to handle the increased output of the modified engine. These changes allow the car to keep pace with modern traffic while maintaining its vintage charm. It remains a robust and functional machine capable of continued road use.
Summary of This Multi-Generational Ford Legacy
This 1936 Ford Model 68 Deluxe is an extraordinary survivor that has escaped the cycle of frequent ownership changes. Its history is well-documented through historical images showing the grandfather with the car in its prime. Including a vintage suitcase and a clean Washington title, the car is ready for a new chapter after eight decades. It serves as an ideal specimen for a collector who appreciates provenance and period-correct hot rod engineering. The combination of pre-war beauty and post-war performance makes it a standout in any gathering. This Ford is a rare opportunity to own a piece of a single family’s automotive legacy.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
