MODEL 68. 221 cu. in. L-head V-8 engine, three-speed manual transmission, solid front axle and live rear axle with transverse semi-elliptic leaf springs, and four-wheel mechanical drum brakes. Wheelbase: 112"

Acquired in 1998, the Dingman Collection’s 1936 Ford Deluxe Roadster was restored by Lowrey’s Auto Restoration in Tilton, New Hampshire, the first in a long list of cars done for Michael Dingman by Jim Lowrey. Although now an older restoration, which at the time cost a remarkable $121,000, it has been very well cared for and looks fresh in every respect, with the intention of retaining its showroom-fresh appearance. Body contours and alignment are all excellent, and the paint exhibits a deep shine absent of surface flaws. Seats are upholstered in wide-pleated brown leather and appear as new. The top is brown-grey canvas, in excellent condition, and is accompanied by a matching boot cover and side curtains. The dashboard is nicely wood grained and fitted with restored instruments.

This car is one of several in the collection with an engine consigned by Mr. Dingman to Roush Performance Products for rebuilding, the details of which were listed at the front of this catalog. Built up to Mr. Dingman’s exacting specifications, it looks entirely stock with aluminum heads and intake manifold. The difference from the original is felt rather than seen or heard. The odometer shows just 212 miles since restoration, although the car has been properly maintained ever since.

Ford built nearly 20,000 open cars in 1936. The rarest of the bunch is the Deluxe Roadster, with 3,862 built. This is almost certainly the only one with such a superb Roush-built engine.