The 1940 Ford models introduced several new features, as well as one of the most distinctive pre-war automotive designs. Technically, one of the most significant changes was the movement of the gearshift lever from the floor to the steering column, a modern feature that was not only more convenient for the driver, but also increased front seat legroom for passengers. Ford also introduced sealed beam headlights in 1940, finally eliminating the persistent problem of moisture degrading the reflectivity of headlights, which relied on separate bulbs. The sealed beams sat at the front of the fenders in oval chrome housings that also incorporated the parking lights, merging earlier Fords’ covered headlight treatment with the improved efficiency and durability of the sealed beam bulbs.

The single element vee-shaped grille design of 1939 was broadened for better cooling, with separate grille elements located on each side of the center grille, a sharp and distinctive visual identification feature. Inside, the 1940 Fords featured a modern dashboard in maroon and beige plastic, which employed rectangular forms for the instrument panel, the radio, and the large speaker, replacing the wood-grained dashboards that Ford had used for many years. Bob Gregorie’s two-spoke steering wheel, which had earned high praise and acceptance in the 1939 Mercury, now found its way into the Ford line.

The desirable V-8 DeLuxe Convertible offered here was acquired by Jules Barsotti in 1990 from an owner in Pennsylvania; an earlier caretaker is noted as Jerome Zich of Richmond, Virginia, to whom a title was issued in 1976. Restored some years ago, it is a correct restoration, in the proper factory color of Folkstone Grey with a brown leather interior and black canvas top piped in red. Accessories are abundant, including dual driving lights, rear fender skirts, front and rear bumper guards, and side-view mirrors. Overall the car is clean and very nice, both inside and out, and still looks terrific.

The Barsotti Family loved this car, which was regularly put into use in local events, including parades for such events as the centennial of Belvedere, California, Jules Barsotti’s longtime hometown. Stored in San Francisco for some years, it will require mechanical service prior to use but will undoubtedly soon be purring down the roads of a new owner’s hometown, filled with happy kids and grandkids.