Lot 74
1936 Ford Deluxe Cabriolet
OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE

221 cid V-8 engine, 85 HP, three-speed manual transmission with Columbia two-speed axle, solid front axle and live rear axle with transverse semi-elliptic leaf springs, and four-wheel mechanical drum brakes; wheelbase: 112”


During the mid to late 1930s almost everyone would agree that Packards, Duesenbergs and Cadillacs were some of the most elegant cars offered to the public; everyone would also agree that these cars were out of reach for the majority of the buying public. So, Ford developed the Cabriolet to satisfy the needs of the world. They were usually well-optioned and came with a classic look that put them in a league of their own. Certainly, carrying all those wants and desires is this ’36 Cabriolet.

Beautifully brought back to life with an extensive restoration is this 1936 Ford Cabriolet. When Mr. Thorne originally acquired the car from a man in Wisconsin, he remembers it being in good overall shape, but not good enough for his standards. The Cabriolet was finished in Ford’s Light Fast Maroon with gold striping, which was one of four promotional Spring colors that Ford only offered from March to May. A new beige canvas top with brown piping was fitted to the car during the restoration process, as was a matching boot cover. The rear is equipped with dual taillights, a rumble seat covered in brown faux leather, and spare tire with a matching painted metal covering as well as a luggage rack. The exterior of this Cabriolet is also tastefully accessorized with original Ford Script safety glass, chrome artillery wheels, whitewall tires, chrome grille guard, greyhound hood ornament, clamshell exhaust tips and dual outside mirrors.

The interior has been beautifully brought back to life with great attention to detail. The upholstery is done in a fine brown colonial grain genuine leather while the dashboard matches in color with its deep walnut-like surface. The dash houses an optional turn knob radio in the center and a glovebox mounted clock. Helping steer the Cabriolet is a Deluxe banjo steering wheel, and the speedometer that shows 2,826 miles since the restoration. As a bonus while driving, it is equipped with a Columbia two-speed rear axle, making it an ideal choice for tours. The historic flathead V-8 has been fully sorted and aesthetically brought back to its showroom appearance. The power is sent to a three-speed manual transmission with a smooth floor shifter.

Ford built just 14,068 Deluxe Cabriolets in 1936, and so few of those have survived unscathed or without being turned into a hot rod. It is rare to find a correctly restored, original car such as this one. These Cabriolets are loved by many, young and old, and this car’s impressive presentation and carefully broken-in charm will no doubt bring many years of motoring enjoyment and show field stories to its next keeper.