The Pinnacle of Ford's Prewar Styling.(Escape Roads)(1940 Ford DeLuxe)

Byline: MIKE COVELLO

Few automobiles stir the souls of Ford collectors as briskly as the strikingly styled 1940 Ford DeLuxe. While the 1932 Ford Roadster is the epicenter of hot rodding lust, the 1940 flathead Ford is part of a decade of V8 power placed in the hands of the common man, who learned how to make the most of this fabled powerplant.

When Henry Ford introduced his V8 for only $460, its least-expensive V8 competition was the $845 Pontiac. Ford's goal was to produce his V8 engines in vast quantities at an affordable price (see page 22).

With the arrival of the 1940 Fords, a new apex in style was reached. Of the 10 available styles, arguably the most striking example was the DeLuxe Convertible Coupe. Even today this Eugene Gregorie design can elicit a gasp of delight. Top up or down, its timeless style appeals both to those who like their old cars stock as well as to hot rodders; 23,704 of these $850 convertibles were produced.

In Ford: 1903-1984, authors Lorin Sorensen, David Lewis and Mike McCarielle proclaimed, "The 1940 design was good indeed-so good that in the eyes of enthusiasts these Fords have become some of the most desired cars ever built.''

There have been many automobiles that were deemed handsome designs for their time, but the success of the 1940 Ford DeLuxe can also be attributed to its low price, ample power and improved driveability. Moving the gearshift to the steering column made for easier shifting. Sealed beam headlights provided longer life and fewer adjustments. And the DeLuxe's front torsion bar ...