Award Winner: 1935 Ford Model 48 Cabriolet Restomod – SOLD!

February 2, 2021 Update – we confirmed the seller of this “Classifind” deleted their listing, so we’re now able to call this one “SOLD!” While this one got away, please reach out either by email or call Rudy directly if you’d like to be informed when we come across something similar.

The collateral damage of writing about classic cars six days a week is expanding your appreciation of vintage rides you once quickly didn’t give a second glance to.  The 1930s and early 1940s Fords in stock-looking condition fall into that category.  Perhaps it’s because it’s so refreshing to come across an example that isn’t a street rod.  This 1935 Ford Model 48 Cabriolet restomod originally listed in December 2021 on Craigslist in Sutherland, Virginia (Richmond) provides the best of both worlds with its stock-looking interior and modified power train.   Comparing this price against the Hagerty Insurance Online Valuation Tool for a stock example confirms this private seller has their Ford priced between the #4 “Fair” (Daily Driver) estimate of $32,000 and the #3 “Good” appraisal of $48,500.

For 1935 Ford thoroughly refreshed its V8-powered car line-up and renamed it the Model 48.  Gone was the antiquated four-cylinder engine dating back to the Model A. This left just the 221 cubic inch “Flat Head V8 to power every Ford car and truck. The transverse leaf spring suspension remained, but the front spring was relocated ahead of the axle to allow more interior volume. Ford designers lowered the body while new “Center-Poise” seating improved comfort.  Visually, the 1935 Ford was much more modern with the grille pushed forward and made more prominent by de-emphasized and more-integrated fenders, reflecting modern Art Deco influences. Ford offered two trim lines (Standard and DeLuxe) across a number of body styles including a base roadster, five-window coupe, three-window coupe, Tudor and Fordor sedans in flatback or trunkback versions, a woody station wagon, and the Cabriolet Coupe such as the example featured here which also features the optional rumble seat.

The private seller provides a nice three-minute walk-around video of their restomod. We do note the video dates back to March of 2019, so it;s safe to assume the similar pictures provided are also close to two years old now:

We love the mix of stock-looking exterior combined with the best of vintage hot rodding under the hood. Good luck with the purchase!

Here’s the seller’s description:

“1935 Ford Cabriolet for sale. Museum car. Drop dead gorgeous quality. Body off restored. Beautiful paint and fabulous looking interior. This Classic has been nicely resto-moded. Features a 1939 Ford flathead with electronic ignition, electric fan, edelbrock aluminum heads and 2 carb intake. Motor starts up great with the electric fuel pump and shifts fantastic with an upgraded 5 speed transmission. Has better 40 ford brakes on it. Still has the original 2 speed rear end.

This Cabriolet has got a new tight-fitting convertible top. Also, features the classic rumble seat in the rear for more passengers. Has great sounding dual exhaust. Pretty wide white walls on red wire wheels with V8 caps. Nice looking spare tire mounted on the rear too.

This car is an award winner (2016 Goodguys best pick) and was previously owned/displayed in the St. Louis Classic Car Musuem.

These metal 30s Ford’s are getting harder and harder to find. This one is in fantastic shape and can be driven anywhere.

***check out the video on YouTube about the car! https://youtu.be/Jk6AN_2Gu4s

I’m selling it for $38,500. You won’t find a nicer one around for this kind of money. I’d also be interested in trading for classic cars or late model modern pickup trucks of equal value. Email if interested or have any questions. Thank you.“

Show or go: What would you do with this ’35 Ford Cabriolet?  Comment below and let us know!