The 1937 DeLuxe Roadster was one of Ford’s most exclusive offerings with just 1,250 built for the model year, gracefully blending the era’s Art Deco influences with the latest in automotive innovation and performance. Visually, Ford’s 1937 lineup drew clear inspiration from the Lincoln-Zephyr, highlighting a more streamlined body, a sharp, rear-hinged hood, integrated headlamps, a slanted grille, and curvaceous fenders that reflected the design language of the period. The roadster body style, a stalwart of the Ford lineup back to its earliest days, would reach its final production year in 1937. Cherished for its simplicity and sporting nature, the roadster was eventually outpaced by the cabriolet body style as customers preferred the all-weather protection with only a minor cost increase.

Ford’s familiar 221-cubic-inch flathead V-8 engine received notable refinements for 1937, including a high-capacity water pump, improved insert bearings, and cast alloy steel pistons, all helping to boost output to 85 horsepower. A sliding-gear three-speed transmission with a floor-mounted shifter delivered power to the rear wheels, while an all-new rod-actuated mechanical braking system improved stopping performance. Inside, the DeLuxe trim level brought enhanced comfort and sophistication with upgraded materials and patterns, chrome accents, a three-spoke banjo-type steering wheel, and a smooth Streamline Moderne dashboard, available with an optional integrated radio.

This 1937 Ford DeLuxe Roadster was discovered in a barn after 40 years of storage by well-known Ford specialist Dennis Carpenter. Soon after, it was treated to a restoration by his team with an eye for preservation. Despite the long-term stasis, the vehicle remained largely intact during this time with many of its original components. During the restoration process, a new coat of Ford Black paint was applied to the front fenders and hood, while the rest of the body kept its original coat. The interior, however, was entirely reupholstered in high-grade vinyl, while the dashboard, banjo-style steering wheel, and even the rumble seat upholstery were kept original. Acquired by The Michael Leith Collection in 2022, the Ford has been dutifully cared for since, and thanks to the upkeep, this roadster remains in top condition.

A truly stellar example of a 1937 Ford DeLuxe Roadster, this example has been wonderfully preserved over nearly a century. As the final model year for the beloved roadster body style, its special status within the V-8 model line makes it a must-have for any Ford devotee.