1936 Ford Model 48 / 68

The 1936 Ford Model 48 and 68 were part of Ford’s early V8 lineup, introduced during the Great Depression. Here’s a structured breakdown:

Historical Context

• Introduction:

  • The Model 48 and Model 68 were introduced in 1935 and updated for 1936. They succeeded the Model 40A and marked Ford’s shift to affordable V8 engines.
  • Model 48 was the standard trim, while the Model 68 was the ‘Deluxe’ variant with enhanced features.
  • Both models were produced until 1936 and featured a 3.6L (221ci) flathead V8 engine (85 HP), making them accessible for the era.

• Body Styles:

  • Available in coupes, sedans, convertibles, and ‘woody’ station wagons.
  • The Model 68 often included distinct badging or trim packages for its premium status.

• Economic Significance:

  • These models helped Ford regain market share from Chevrolet during the Depression by balancing affordability and practicality.

Key Differences Between Model 48 and 68

1. Trim and Features:

   • Model 48: Basic appointments focused on functionality.
   • Model 68: ‘Deluxe’ trim with upgraded interiors (e.g., better seating, optional accessories).

2. Engine and Performance:

   • Both shared the same 221ci flathead V8, but the Model 68 likely emphasized smoother performance through higher-quality manufacturing tolerances.

3. Market Position:

   • The Model 68 targeted buyers seeking a slightly more luxurious experience without a complete step up to higher-end models.

Legacy

• Influence: These models laid the foundation for Ford’s V8 dominance in the 1930s–1950s. Their design influenced later ‘3-Window’ and ‘5-Window’ Ford models, which became iconic in hot rod and custom car circles.

For further details, explore the Classic.com market page or Wikipedia entry.

This 1936 Ford Model 48 / 68 Coupe represents a significant piece of American automotive history, embodying Ford’s revolutionary flathead V8 era that transformed affordable performance during the Great Depression. According to the seller, this is a highly original and well-preserved example from Ford’s early production line, featuring the iconic 221ci V8 (Flathead) powertrain that made approximately 90 horsepower. The vehicle is described as starting right up and driving smoothly with no issues, with smooth power delivery and no misfiring, hesitation, or weird noises.

Key characteristics of this remarkable coupe include:

• Exterior: Black paint described as having a great shine with no flaking or peeling areas
• Interior: Beige/Tan upholstery in amazing condition with a like-new bench seat and plush rumble seat cushioning
• Mechanical: Original 6v electrical system said to work with no issues, manual transmission, and rear-wheel drive
• Condition: Chrome trim in superb condition with no corrosion, rumble seat in great condition, and crystal clear gauges that work as they should
• Mileage: 64,786 miles reported
• Conservation: Original & Highly Original status
• Additional items: Early Ford literature, spare parts, and a custom hand-drawn picture of the car

The 1936 Ford Model 48 and 68 were Ford’s only two models for that year, both carryovers from 1935 with modest upgrades. The Model 48 was the standard trim while the Model 68 represented the Deluxe variant. This coupe exemplifies Ford’s third generation of passenger cars and the flathead V8 that defined an era of automotive performance from 1932 to 1953. According to market data from Classic.com, the Ford Model 48 / 68 market shows strong collector interest with an average sale price around $38,363 and a healthy 70% sell-through rate across 291 recorded sales. Comparable vehicles in similar condition range from the mid-$20,000s to over $80,000 depending on restoration quality, provenance, and specific body style.

This Sarasota, Florida example stands out for its combination of originality, documented condition, and included historical documentation. The vehicle’s great suspension with no clunks or bangs when driving or going over bumps, coupled with an interior reported to be free of odors, makes it an exceptional driver-quality example. For collectors seeking an authentic pre-war Ford V8 experience with minimal restoration investment, this Coupe offers a rare opportunity to own a piece of American automotive heritage that remains both collectible and enjoyable to drive.

This 1936 Ford Model 48 / 68 Coupe represents a significant piece of Ford’s pre-war flathead V8 legacy—the final year of this distinctive nomenclature before Ford transitioned to its Standard and Deluxe naming convention. For 1936, Ford offered just two models: the Model 48 (Standard) and the Model 68 (Deluxe), both powered by the legendary 221ci flathead V8 producing 85 brake horsepower. According to the seller, this particular coupe is a highly original, well-preserved example that was part of a notable 32-car collection, maintained twice weekly by a professional mechanic and housed in a climate-controlled facility until recently. It was reportedly shown at car shows through 2020, demonstrating its presentation quality.

According to the seller, key characteristics of this coupe include:

• Powertrain: 221ci V8 (Flathead) with manual transmission; described as starting right up with smooth power delivery and no misfiring or hesitation • Electrical: Original 6-volt system said to work with no issues • Exterior: Black finish described as having a great shine with no flaking or peeling; chrome trim in superb condition with no corrosion • Interior: Beige/tan upholstery with a like-new bench seat showing no stains, rips, or tears; rumble seat reported in great condition with plush cushioning • Mileage: 64,786 miles reported • Provenance: Originally from a 32-car collection with documented maintenance and show history • Documentation: Includes early Ford literature, Early Ford V8 Club of America book, spare rumble seat step pad, and a custom hand-drawn picture of the car • Condition: Described as driving smoothly with no issues, featuring a great suspension with no clunks or bangs, and an interior free of odors

The Ford Model 48 / 68 market shows strong collector interest, with Classic.com data indicating an average sale price around $38,363 and a robust 70% sell-through rate across 291 recorded sales. Comparable coupes in this market have recently transacted from the upper $20,000s to the mid-$40,000s depending on condition, originality, and documentation. This example’s collection provenance, preserved originality, and included historical documentation position it favorably within this established market for driver-quality pre-war Ford coupes.

This Sarasota, Florida example stands out as an accessible entry point into 1930s Ford V8 ownership—offering the iconic flathead experience without the restoration demands typically associated with cars of this era. The combination of reported mechanical reliability, well-preserved cosmetics, and authentic period documentation makes this an appealing option for collectors seeking a turnkey pre-war Ford that can be enjoyed immediately while remaining a sound long-term collector investment.