Chassis No. 18869674
Body No. 750LB3936

Henry Ford gave the Model 40 two years—1933 and 1934—to repay the company's investment, with production totaling nearly 900,000 units. The year 1934 was a landmark year for Ford, marking the company's first profit since 1929.

Though the 1934 Ford models resembled the redesigned 1933s, they featured significant improvements, including a 10 horsepower boost from the new Stromberg two-barrel carburetor, bringing the V8 engine up to 85 horsepower. Other updates included a relocated fuel pump, a thermostat in the cooling system, and a cast steel crankshaft, a groundbreaking achievement in metallurgy and machining.

Consumer preferences in 1934 clearly favored closed cars. While Ford produced well over 500,000 V8 cars in 1934, De Luxe Phaetons accounted for just 3,128 units. The trend toward fully enclosed, all-weather cars was unmistakable. Though its open-air design lacked the weather protection of a closed car, it offered an accessible way for buyers to enjoy the style and freedom of an open car, providing a more aspirational experience at a relatively attainable price.

This 1934 Ford De Luxe Phaeton was restored under prior ownership to be as authentic to original as possible. Finished in Black, the car is accentuated with a Medium Cream pinstripe and wire wheels with Firestone Deluxe Champion tires. The interior is upholstered with dark brown leather for the seats, grey “oil cloth” vinyl used elsewhere, and a wood-grained dashboard. Should the desire arise, the tan phaeton top with brown binding can be lowered beneath its boot cover or have added weather protection with the use of its side curtains. Attention to detail is evident with date-coded Ford Safety Glass, Twolite headlamps, and a well-detailed undercarriage.

Once the restoration was completed, the car achieved an AACA Senior National First Prize in 2001, followed by a Grand National First Prize in 2006. Additionally, the car earned a Dearborn award from the Early Ford V-8 Club, scoring at least 950 out of 1,000 possible points. Having only covered 87 miles since the completion of its remarkable restoration, this 1934 Ford De Luxe Phaeton is ready to continue the aspirational experience that beckoned buyers to its style and sense of freedom when new.