Ford was on the ropes following World War II. Losses were mounting and Ford needed a winner. The new Ford cost the company $72 million in investment and 10 million man-hours, but by the end of 1949, it had earned the company $177 million in profit and had outsold Chevrolet by 100,000 vehicles. A record 28.2 million people checked out the new Ford in dealer showrooms over the first three days of its announcement. Although the 1950 Fords looked very similar to the revolutionary 1949 Fords, there were reportedly 50 improvements for 1950. These consisted of minor changes, such as the recessed filler cap, a new hood ornament, button door handles, a three-blade radiator fan, lower parking lights in wraparound chrome housings, a Ford crest to replace the block Ford letters, more durable seat foam, and better-quality fabrics, which all added up to an improved, cleaner, and more appealing design.

All 1951 Ford Convertibles were powered by the trusty 100-brake horsepower, 239-cubic inch flathead V-8 fitted with a Holley two-barrel carburetor. The flathead in 1951 was smoother and quieter thanks to a new composite timing gear, revised pistons, a new crankshaft, and the fitting of rubber o-ring seals.

The Custom Convertible offered here was beautifully restored by former owner Ron Stauffer, of Portland, Indiana. In a feature article on the car in the September/October 2007 issue of Antique Automobile, it was noted that “the frame and body were prepared and primed on a rotisserie, and the engine was completely rebuilt. Black acrylic enamel was used on the exterior, while the interior is finished with flawless LeBaron-Bonney replacement panels and seat covers.” The car went on to be shown at three Early Ford V-8 Club meets, scoring 996 out of 1,000 points in its last appearance and winning three Dearborn Awards. It was later an AACA National First Prize winner at Hershey, and it appeared in the AACA’s 2007 wall calendar.

Overall, the car still presents in show-worthy condition, with no visible imperfections to its paint, excellent brightwork, and a like-new interior that is perfect down to the floor mats. The engine bay is correct down to the proper six-volt Ford battery, and correct Ford script glass appears throughout. Original options and accessories are abundant, including overdrive, an AM radio, a dashboard-mounted clock, and a Magic Aire heater. Even the doors fit and close nicely. Only 351 miles have been recorded since restoration.

This is a truly beautiful “Shoebox.”