1933 Ford 40 Series Cabriolet
When the Model 40 and the new B were introduced February 9, 1933, revisions of the car were substantial, especially considering how important the 1932 change had been. The grille was revised, gaining a pointed forward slope at the bottom which resembled either a spade, a Medieval shield, or possibly the 1932 Packard Light Eight in general outline anyway. Both the grille and hood louvers curved down and forward. The overall design and grille were inspired by the English Ford Model Y.
For consignment, a 1933 Ford 40 Series cabriolet, street rodded and now harboring a big V8 and a leather interior. 304,948 Ford 40 Series were built in 1933 with only 7,852 of them being cabriolet roadsters.
Note: This vehicle is sold with a Pennsylvania reconstructed branding on the title
Exterior
They say shoes make the man, well wheels make the car. If this were 1933, the Ford 40 would have a taller stance with slim tires and still be considered sporty. Our car wears 14 and 15-inch Halibrand wheels with considerably fatter tires, a lower stance, and a raked attitude that implies forward momentum, even when standing still. The front fenders, House of Kolor Red like the rest of the car, meet on the pointed front fascia like a snow plow topped by that forward sloping grille that gapes like a largemouth bass between a pair of proverbial spotlights that are commercial headlights. The louvers of the engine covers curve like gills and get progressively larger the further back they go, following the lines of the front fender which connects with the running board only to rise again on the wide, rear fender. Out back, the rounded deck lid gleams like a giant tomato as two small taillights ride low on the fenders and fluted exhaust tips emerge from underneath. The paint, metalwork, and tan canvas top are in great condition. We note imperfections that include some paint runs, and assorted scratches, cracks, and chips, but not many.
Interior
The door open suicide style and reveal beige leather door panels with pleats and a carpeted lower. Materials, color and pattern repeat on the bench seat that shows some compression but is otherwise fine condition. The leather wrapped Lecarra wheel shows some patina and is mounted on a red column leading to a red painted dash which houses a variety of black faced, silver rimmed gauges from Classic Industries. There are also tiny indicator lights, billet knobs, toggle switches, and an AM/FM/CD radio. The shifter is floor mounted and hugs close to the seat bottom. Tan carpet with beige trim coordinates nicely with the interior palette while inside of the soft top shows some loose threads and patina but no rips or tears. The trunk is carpeted and finished but shows some usage.
Drivetrain
Behind the engine covers, a clean, driver quality engine that our consignor states is a 454ci V8 bored over to 461 cubic inches with a mild Comp cam and 10:1 compression. It is fueled by a Holley 4-barrel carburetor and moved to action by a 700R4 4-speed automatic transmission sending power back to a Ford 9" rear with consignor-stated "highway gears". Disc brakes are up front and drums provided in back. Headers begin the exhaust system.
Undercarriage
The bright red rear axle hits us like a ton of bricks and no, we didn't bump our head. We just didn't expect the color, but it looks great, despite some residual oil on the pumpkin. Meanwhile, the 2.5 inch dual exhaust encounters a pair of FlowMaster mufflers before the tailpipes are sent on their way to reach the chrome horns at the end. No surface rust underneath, but definite signs of being driven with some road dirt and a bit of grime. Suspension consists of a 4- bar and transverse leaf springs in front with ladder bars and coilovers out back.
Drive-Ability
This comfortable little cabin provides a cozy spot for two and off we go onto the loop where there's obvious power underfoot, great sound, and good tracking and handling. With a narrow windshield, big C-pillar of the soft top, and a gun port sized rear window, visibility is something street rodders just get used to. With the top down, the sky is literally the limit. What doesn't work, you may ask? Well, the radio goes on but doesn't make any sound. How's your singing voice? Meanwhile, everything else works as intended. While Classic Auto Mall represents that these functions were working at the time of our test drive, we cannot guarantee these functions will be working at the time of your purchase.
This is a sweet little rod that is going to make the next owner very happy. It essentially needs nothing and is ready for a good time for show and go. When you see these on the street, everyone's head turns, and we mean everyone! And you simply can't go wrong with red. This tomato is ripe and ready for the pickin'. Step into our garden!
Classic Auto Mall is home to more than 1,000 classic and collectible vehicles for sale via consignment in a climate controlled 336,000-square foot showroom (that's more than 8 acres!). The largest single location consignment dealer of classic and collectible vehicles in the country is located in Morgantown, Pennsylvania, just 1-hour west of Philadelphia off Exit 298 of the I-76 Pennsylvania Turnpike. For more information visit www.classicautomall.com or call us at (888) 227-0914. Contact us anytime for more information or to come see the vehicle in person.
With so many great cars, you know we have a lot to talk about, and we do that each week on the Classic Auto Mall Podcast with host Stewart Howden. Stewart discusses new inventory as well as trends in consignments and car prices, while interviewing celebrities and automotive professionals about amazing cars and their history. Tune in each week to the Classic Auto Mall Podcast wherever you enjoy listening. You can also watch on YouTube!