Although most automobiles built in the U.S. in 1935 had closed bodies, open cars still carried an aura of luxury and exclusivity. Even Ford, which perfected mass production, introduced a new open car that combined the best features of a closed body, a cabriolet, and a four-door sedan into one single design. Offered only in DeLuxe trim, the distinctive Convertible Sedan drew many prospective buyers into Ford showrooms, and it was even chosen to pace the 1935 Indianapolis 500.

In 1938, Ford began an effort to distinguish its Standard and DeLuxe models. While the Standard models were built with 1937 front sheet metal, DeLuxe models received new, updated front-end styling, with a curved grille outline and slightly revised side vents for the hood. DeLuxe models also benefited from the addition of dual tail lamps, dual windshield wipers, walnut wood grain window moldings and dash panels, a chrome-plated grille and windshield frame, rear armrests, twin electric air horns, a “banjo” steering wheel, a locking glove-compartment door, and a dash-mounted clock.

In 1937 and 1938, Ford began to realize the benefits of its heavy capital investments on improvements to the flathead V-8 engine, and it moved to bring body production entirely in-house. However, a sharp economic downturn reduced Ford’s calendar year production by nearly 52 percent. Consequently, only 2,703 Convertible Sedans were produced in 1938, and this limited production “image car” ended after 1939.

The 1938 Ford DeLuxe Convertible Sedan presented here is a very good example that displays an older, body-off restoration. It is finished in green, and while no major paint flaws are visible, the finish does reveal minor scratching, which can certainly be addressed with buffing. The car sports a light beige canvas top that shows minor signs of aging, yet it remains well fitted and presentable. Exterior enhancements include dual chrome rearview mirrors and a radio antenna mounted above the windshield. Additionally, wide whitewall tires surround body-colored artillery wheels, which are fitted with trim rings and chrome hubcaps that display a stylized “V8” logo.

The interior has been faithfully restored to original specifications, with brown vinyl upholstery, tan rubber mats in the forward passenger compartment, and tan carpeting at the rear. The dash remains unrestored and sports a radio and speaker with recessed control knobs. Under the hood, the well-restored engine bay is presented in very good, period-correct condition, and it could easily be elevated to show-quality condition with detailing. Similarly, the restored undercarriage exhibits some minor evidence of road use, yet it remains presentable overall.

A handsome example of a rare body style, this 1938 Ford Deluxe Convertible Sedan will be a fine addition to any collection. It would be an ideal touring car that could just as easily be shown with pride.