As buyers continued to prefer closed bodies during the early 1930s, many manufacturers saw sales of open body styles, particularly truly open cars like tourers and roadsters, shrink dramatically. At the same time, cars had never looked better, and Ford, in particular, rapidly adopted more streamlined, rounded lines that gave even their popular-priced automobiles an upmarket look. That, and the famous V-8 in an affordable car, cemented Ford’s legacy as the best-selling vehicles of their era.

The happy, if unintended, result of this was that cars like this 1936 Ford DeLuxe Roadster were so rare when new—with only 3,862 of this model built—that the survivors are hotly desired by collectors today and are among the most sought-after and valuable of all period V-8 Fords.

This particular DeLuxe Roadster was reportedly one of the first to be built for the 1936 model year, with a September 1935 date of manufacture. It was beautifully restored in previous ownership, where it was finished in factory-correct Black with Apple Green accenting and Gray Brown veal-grain leather upholstery. The car is also equipped with a rumble seat, “wind wings,” side curtains, a set of original tools in burlap bags, and a very desirable original accessory radio. The top and interior are beautifully fitted with materials supplied by renowned LeBaron-Bonney.

The restoration was judged three times at Early Ford V-8 Club meets and received a perfect score of 1,000 points at no fewer than three of the famed Dearborn Awards. Jerry Veley, the Ford expert who originally restored the car, freshened its restoration from 2009 to 2010, and it remains in high-point condition today, as it has been preserved in its present owner’s fine collection.

This classic V-8 Ford, in its rare, desirable, and sporty open roadster configuration, is a beautiful example of the 1936 DeLuxe Roadster, and it will continue to be a joy to drive and show.