The 1940 Ford coupe remains one of the most beloved foundations for the American hot rod movement, and this steel-bodied example serves as a premier showcase of that enduring legacy. Built by a previous owner with a focus on a “street rod” aesthetic, the car features a striking burgundy exterior that highlights the iconic teardrop headlamps and bold vertical grille. Currently offered by McQueen Classics, this coupe has been thoughtfully updated to balance its pre-war charm with modern reliability. From the louvered hood to the staggered alloy wheels, every detail has been curated to create a vehicle that is as comfortable on a long-distance cruise as it is at a local Saturday night car show.
Steel Body Integrity and Custom Louvered Details
The visual character of this hot rod is rooted in its authentic steel construction, encompassing the main body, hood, and front fenders, while fiberglass rear fenders provide a smooth, flared finish. Repainted roughly eight years ago in a deep burgundy, the finish provides a rich contrast to the 15-inch Cragar front and Weld rear wheels. The louvered hood is a definitive period-correct touch, providing both cooling functionality and a classic competition look. Functional improvements are evident throughout, including recently repaired wipers and horns to ensure road legality. Its silhouette is purposefully aggressive, sitting low over a staggered tire setup that emphasizes the classic “big and little” hot rod stance.
Mercedes-Benz Luxury and Rear-View Camera Tech
Inside the cabin, the 1940 Ford coupe has been significantly upgraded with high-back bucket seats reportedly sourced from a 2013 Mercedes-Benz, offering a level of comfort far beyond the original factory bench. A custom-built center console houses a Lokar shifter and a modern screen for the integrated rear-view camera system, bridging the gap between vintage style and contemporary safety. The driver faces a suite of Stewart-Warner gauges set into a clean dashboard, with a three-spoke steering wheel mounted on a convenient tilt column. Every tactile surface has been refreshed to create a premium environment that makes the 22,000 indicated miles a pleasure to experience.
Built 305ci V8 Power and Traditional Glasspack Sound
Under the louvered steel hood lies a 305ci V8 engine built for reliable performance, featuring a COMP Cams 270 camshaft, roller rockers, and a Weiand Street Warrior intake manifold. This powertrain produces 230 hp / 233 PS and 300 lb-ft / 407 Nm (Estimated). A Holley four-barrel carburetor manages fuel delivery, while headers lead into a dual exhaust system equipped with glasspacks for that quintessential deep, rhythmic hot rod rumble. Power is sent to the rear wheels via a robust Turbo 350 automatic transmission. The car handles the road through a drilled drop axle with a transverse leaf spring up front and parallel leaf springs with lowering blocks in the rear, providing a traditional, firm ride.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 305ci V8 |
| Transmission | Turbo 350 Automatic |
| Induction | Holley 4-Barrel Carburetor |
| Front Suspension | Drilled Drop Axle / Transverse Leaf |
| Rear Suspension | Parallel Leaf / Lowering Blocks |
| Brakes | Front Disc / Rear Drum |
The Enduring Appeal of the All-Steel Street Rod
In the collector market, an authentic 1940 Ford coupe often commands a premium over the 1939 models due to its refined front-end styling and improved interior space. Its unique selling point is the predominantly steel construction, which is increasingly rare in a market saturated with fiberglass replicas. While competitors like the Willys Coupe or the Chevrolet Master Deluxe offer similar vintage vibes, the Ford remains the “gold standard” for parts availability and club support. This specific car’s mix of a Chevrolet-based drivetrain and Mercedes-Benz interior comfort makes it an ideal choice for the enthusiast who intends to actually drive their investment rather than keeping it exclusively in a climate-controlled garage.
Proven Performance and Documented Heritage
Acquired by the current owner in 2018, this coupe comes with a clean Florida title and a history of documented service records and spare parts. The use of an aluminum fuel tank and high-quality components like the Stewart-Warner gauges indicates a build that was executed with longevity in mind. As a BaT Local Partner offering, this vehicle has been vetted for its mechanical honesty and classic appeal. Whether you are looking for a show-ready cruiser or a solid foundation for further customization, this burgundy Ford represents the heart and soul of American car culture, ready to be enjoyed by its next long-term steward.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
