MODEL 0BA. 100 bhp, 239.4 cu. in. L-head V-8 engine, three-speed manual transmission with overdrive, coil spring independent front suspension, live rear axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs, and four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes. Wheelbase: 114"

Ford’s 1950 sales literature emphasized quality, incrementally improving upon the previous year’s new design. The changes were subtle, ranging from new pushbutton door handles to “non-sag” springs and foam cushions that improved the seats, which had a new choice of fabrics. Ford’s entry-level series, unnamed in 1949, was now called “Deluxe,” and the upscale Custom line became “Custom Deluxe.”

The flathead engine was treated to lubrication improvements, a new camshaft, timing gear, and a three-blade fan, which improved operation without changing the horsepower rating. A torsional stabilizer was added to the front suspension, and improved steering linkage resulted in “finger-tip control.”

Formerly owned by W.D. Hamill, of Yarmouth, Maine, this 1950 Custom Deluxe convertible was a well-kept original car when acquired by the Dingman Collection in 1997. Mr. Dingman kept it as a driver for 10 years before sending it to Kevin Westmoreland’s Performance Restoration for a complete restoration that cost $150,000.

The result is dramatic and has rendered the car precisely as it would have been sold new in period. Finished in black, the car exhibits perfect contours and deep gloss in the paint. The top is black canvas, accented with authentic optional red piping. Seats are upholstered in red leather with black buttoned seatbacks. The full interior, by renowned specialist J.E. Roll, appears as new, as the car has been driven only sparingly since completion.

Equipped with Ford overdrive, its 100-bhp V-8 is correctly detailed in gold paint, with authentic hoses and fasteners. The undercarriage is similarly presentable and correct. Ford built 50,299 convertible coupes in 1950. Surely this is one of the foremost survivors and, almost certainly, one of the finest available today.