The 1950 Ford Custom Deluxe Convertible, often affectionately nicknamed the “Shoebox,” embodies the post-war shift toward sleek, integrated body design. This particular example takes the classic appeal of the Shoebox and integrates modern, reliable performance components. This restomod received a comprehensive refurbishment, including separating the body from the frame. The focus keyphrase, 1950 Ford Custom Deluxe Convertible, represents an iconic piece of Americana transformed for contemporary use. The result is a vehicle that delivers a beautiful vintage aesthetic without the complexities of fifty-year-old mechanics. It truly blends the best of both worlds for an enjoyable experience.
Classic “Shoebox” Aesthetics Refreshed
The convertible body was completely stripped before being refinished in an appealing shade of beige. This color provides a sophisticated, understated contrast to the typical bright colors of the era. Exterior details remain classic, featuring chrome bodyside moldings and a stylized hood ornament. A tan Haartz soft top was installed, which includes a glass rear window for better visibility. The overall profile is enhanced by period-correct rear wheel skirts. However, some minor imperfections are noted, including cracks on the left spotlight and left vent window, which speaks to its road use.
Chassis, Rolling Stock, and Features
The car sits on 15-inch painted steel wheels fitted with Ford-branded chrome hubcaps. These wheels are wrapped in BFGoodrich Silvertown Radial whitewall tires, maintaining a beautiful vintage look. This 1950 Ford Custom Deluxe Convertible is equipped with power steering, making low-speed maneuvering significantly easier. Braking is handled by power-assisted drums at all four corners, providing confident stopping ability. Twin spotlights flank the windscreen, a popular accessory choice for cars of this vintage, adding period flair.
Upgraded Cabin and Interior Appointments
The interior refurbishment was extensive, resulting in a bright and inviting cabin space. The split-front and rear bench seats have been re-trimmed in soft tan leather upholstery. This material selection provides a premium feel and complements the exterior’s beige tone perfectly. The metal surfaces inside the car were carefully repainted to match the refreshed interior design. Additionally, the door and rear panels feature two-tone upholstery, enhancing the bespoke nature of the build. Front lap belts and a cabin heater offer basic safety and comfort.
Modern Integration for Daily Driving
In the center of the dashboard sits a nonfunctional set of factory instrumentation, maintaining the original look. However, an aftermarket digital shift indicator and turn signal assembly have been installed for modern functionality. A retro-look cassette stereo has been integrated into the dash. This provides a vintage appearance while offering modern sound capabilities. The five-digit odometer shows 2,500 miles, reflecting the distance traveled since the refurbishment was completed. The overall blend of classic aesthetics and functional upgrades is executed cleanly.
Engine, Power, and Drivetrain Specs
The true surprise of this 1950 Ford Custom Deluxe Convertible lies under the hood. Power comes from a 302ci V8 engine, famously sourced from a 1988 Ford Mustang 5.0. This engine installation was completed during the circa 2000 refurbishment. The 302 V8 delivers a substantial upgrade in both power and reliability compared to the original flathead. It is paired with a four-speed AOD automatic transmission, also sourced from the Mustang. This combination provides smooth, effortless cruising and much more highway-friendly gearing. The V8 breathes through a modern dual exhaust system, giving the Shoebox a throaty, powerful sound. An oil change and transmission fluid flush were recently completed in September 2025.
Performance and Reliability Advantages
The decision to swap in the 302ci V8 and AOD automatic transmission transforms the car’s dynamic capabilities. While the original engine offered gentle performance, the Fox Body Mustang V8 brings reliable, readily available horsepower. This upgrade ensures the 1950 Ford Custom Deluxe Convertible can keep pace with modern traffic easily. Power steering and power-assisted drum brakes complete the package. These modifications ensure the car handles and stops with a predictable manner, making it an excellent choice for a weekend cruiser or restomod enthusiast.
Summary of the 1950 Ford Custom Deluxe Convertible
This refurbished 1950 Ford Custom Deluxe Convertible perfectly executes the popular restomod concept. It retains the smooth, classic lines of the “Shoebox” Ford while incorporating reliable, modern V8 power. The extensive refurbishment included a body-off repaint in beige and a full cabin refresh with tan leather upholstery. The 302ci V8 engine and four-speed AOD automatic transmission provide a significant performance and usability advantage. This vehicle stands as a fantastic testament to blending nostalgic style with contemporary mechanical efficiency, creating a comfortable and powerful classic cruiser.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
