MODEL 81A. 85 bhp, 221 cu. in. L-head V-8 engine, three-speed manual transmission with Columbia overdrive, solid front axle and live rear axle with transverse semi-elliptic leaf springs, and four-wheel mechanical drum brakes. Wheelbase: 112"

Ford, more than any other automaker, continued to produce open cars into the thirties, even as sedans and coupes took more and more of the market. Nevertheless, the last Ford roadster was built in 1937, and, perhaps surprisingly, the phaeton lasted one year longer.

This 1938 Deluxe Phaeton is one of 1,169 built that year, the rarest of that year’s body styles. It was acquired by the Dingman Collection in March 2002 from Samuel Hilton, of Seekonk, Massachusetts. Equipped with the early 21-stud V-8 engine, it was treated to a full restoration at Jim Lowrey’s Auto Restoration in Tilton, New Hampshire, which cost nearly $140,000, returning the car to as new, factory-fresh appearance.

The car is immaculate throughout. All body contours are correct, door gaps are even, and the doors shut well. Painted in gloss black, the car exhibits a deep shine, accented by excellent brightwork. The accessory door hinge mirrors, wind wings, and spider hub caps contribute to the effect. The interior is done in brown buttoned leather with matching door panels and black rubber floor mats. Correct wood grain makes the dashboard a thing of beauty, complemented by an iconic banjo steering wheel. A grey-brown canvas top nicely completes the motif, and matching side curtains are found in the trunk.

The engine compartment and undercarriage are exceedingly clean and properly detailed; the wheels are fitted with Ford-script 6.00x16 double whitewall tires. Like all cars in the Dingman Collection, it has been maintained in superb condition. The last of the last, this car truly represents the end of an era.