Estimate: $90,000-$130,000 US

Sold: $110,000

65hp, 221 cu. in. V8 engine, three-speed manual transmission, solid front axle with transverse semi-elliptic leaf spring, ¾-floating rear axle with transverse semi-elliptic leaf spring, and four-wheel mechanically actuated internal-expanding brakes. Wheelbase: 106"

Ford’s various 1932 models were the last cars developed with Henry Ford’s full involvement. As described in Robert Lacey’s Ford: The Men and The Machine, the genesis of the Ford V8 engine is rooted in the launch of the six-cylinder Chevrolet of 1929. Not to be outdone, Ford commenced work on a new V8 engine. Working in secret at the Dearborn Engineering Laboratory, more than 30 prototype V8 engines were built, tested, and ultimately rejected. Even Henry Ford began to rethink his strategy, that is, until a fateful private meeting with son Edsel in December 1931.

Soon after, Henry Ford instructed his engineering chief, Charlie Sorensen, to spend “… until it hurts”, at the very height of the Great Depression. Sorensen did spend, investing heavily in the latest electrical iron furnaces and metal-casting technologies. In turn, the ability of Ford’s Rouge plant to produce high-quality iron alloys made the first low-priced, mass-produced, and commercially successful V8-powered automobile a reality. Once again, Ford reinvented the automobile and silenced the critics.

This very attractive Model 18 Phaeton represented the mid-range of Ford’s model line in 1932. Attractively finished in Brewster Green with black fenders, a black beltline rib, silver pinstriping, apple green wheels and a tan folding top, this award-winning example remains in high-point condition today. Exterior accessories include dual cowl-mounted lights, a driver’s side rearview mirror, dual side-mounted spare tires, and a rear-mounted luggage rack. The interior, trimmed in brown leather upholstery, is complemented by tan carpeting, and remains very attractive, showing little evidence of wear. Underhood, the flathead V8 engine is presented with correct finishes and components throughout.

On the show field, this handsome Phaeton earned 995 out of 1,000 points in judging by the Early Ford V8 Club. In addition, it has earned Senior National and Senior Grand National First Prize awards by the AACA as well as a President’s Award silver tray. Its offering represents a wonderful opportunity to acquire a desirable, award-winning open example of Ford’s landmark models for 1932.