1935 Ford Model 48 Deluxe Cabriolet

The 1935 Ford was a thorough refresh on the popular V8-powered Ford. The transverse leaf spring suspension remained, but the front spring was relocated ahead of the axle to allow more interior volume. The body was lowered and new "Center-Poise" seating improved comfort.

Visually, the 1935 Ford was much more modern with the grille pushed forward and made more prominent by de-emphasized and more-integrated fenders. A major advance was a true integrated trunk on "trunkback" sedans, though the traditional "flatback" was also offered. Outdated body styles like the Victoria were also deleted for the year. Two trim lines were offered, standard and DeLuxe, this beingthe DeLuxe, across a number of body styles.

The 1935 Ford Deluxe Cabriolet offered here was purchased by its current owner in 1996 from RobertRichardson in Elkart, IN. Robertowned it since 1969. Prior ownership history is unknown. The owner then commenced on a full body off frame restoration with the end goal beinga nice driver, highway capable, but maintaining its original appearance. He contracted with Honest Bob's (Bob O'Hara) for the build as discussed in Cars and Part, March 1998. He started with the upgrading the motor to a 1953 Mercury Flathead, bored .125″ with SS valves and hardened seats, aluminum timing gear and heat treated valve guides mated to a 1939 Ford Transmission. Then added the Offenhauser dual carburetorintake manifold,Offenhauserfinned aluminum heads and Isky cam. Finishing the motor off with a Mallory dual point HP distributor, a beehive oil filter, and Fenton headers. To compliment the entire driveline, a Mitchell Model 1000 Overdrive (gear splitter) was added to give a great driving experience under all driving conditions. You can shift the overdrive on the fly and you essentiallyhave 6 speeds forward and a wonderful sounding true dual exhaust.

The Brakes are hydraulic, an added rear sway bar, modern shocks, new springs, radial tires andpower steeringmake this an absolute pleasure to drive! Comfortable, easy to steer, stop and maneuver. I dont think it gets any better than this folks.

The car looks great and has just slightly over 6,000 miles of enjoyment. This well sorted Fordis ready to tour cross country. The paint, interior and top are in fabulous condition and the top easily folds up and down. An added spotlight gives a nice look and the addition of Pioneer Radio in the glovebox with power antenna gives the added tunes required when cruising. Added directionals and seatbelts for safety.

Additional pictures can be found at www.tomlaferriere.com