Description
Ford Business Coupe Deluxe | 1940
Highlights:
- Restoration to original specification
- Manual gearbox paired with 3.8L V8 petrol engine
- Leather upholstery and original interior features retained
- Mechanical and electrical systems functional
- South African eNatis registration and valid inspection
The seller offers for sale this 1940 Ford Business Coupe Deluxe, a two-door American classic powered by a naturally aspirated 3.8-litre V8 engine. The car is equipped with a manual transmission and was subject to a comprehensive restoration. It has reportedly been rebuilt to its original showroom specification, retaining authentic details throughout both the exterior and interior.
Body panels and paintwork have been carefully restored, with the seller noting that the finish requires no further correction or attention. The interior features period-correct leather upholstery, with all panels, seats, and trim stated to be in intact and working order. The dashboard, dials, and switchgear have also been preserved or restored to match original specifications.
Mechanically, the vehicle is in a good condition and holds a valid inspection certificate and is currently registered.
The 1940 Ford Business Coupe Deluxe represented a popular model during the final pre-war years of Ford’s production. The “business coupe” variant was intended for travelling salespeople who required little more than front seats and a large rear cargo area—meaning these cars were typically devoid of rear seats. Its sloped fastback roofline and integrated fenders gave it a stylish, streamlined silhouette that appealed to both commercial and private customers.
The Deluxe trim level introduced chrome detailing, more refined interior materials, and additional comfort features compared to the base model. Under the hood, Ford’s iconic flathead V8 engine delivered reliable performance and a signature throaty exhaust note, helping to cement the company’s leadership in affordable V8-powered motoring during the 1930s and 1940s.
Today, the 1940 model year is especially sought after among enthusiasts due to its balanced proportions and final-year refinements before the automotive industry shifted towards wartime production. Restored examples like this one are increasingly difficult to find, especially those with extended restoration histories and original specification preserved. The model’s design legacy has also made it a popular base for hot rod modifications, though unmodified survivors, such as the one offered here, hold stronger appeal to collectors seeking authenticity.
This car has been kept largely in original configuration and benefits from a decade-long restoration. With its classic styling, V8 power, and elegant detailing, it offers not only nostalgia but also genuine historical presence, making it a strong candidate for vintage shows or weekend drives.
Condition of the Bodywork and Paint
4. Very Good: Small dents or scratches; may require minimal bodywork or paint correction.
Condition of the Interior
4. Very Good: Clean with minimal wear; may need minor replacements for small missing or broken parts.
Technical Condition
4. Very Good: Mechanically solid, with possible minor maintenance required.
Overall Condition
4. Very Good Condition: Shows only minimal wear and is ready to drive at any time.
This item is sold on an as-is basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and descriptions of the listing are for information purposes only.
We encourage all potential bidders to inspect the vehicle before placing a bid. Please contact us by phone or email to schedule an appointment.
All auction cars offered have a reserve price. You have only won the item if the seller accepts your bid.
Price changes and errors reserved. The 14-day right of withdrawal does not apply to this auction.
This car is currently located in Cape Town, South Africa.
This car drives, brakes and shifts.
The car has a South African registration. The buyer is responsible for registration in his own country and responsible for delivery and collection of any vehicle purchased at the auction.
The description of this car is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Route 66 Auctions requests a range of detail about the car from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. We strongly advise potential buyers to view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy.
Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible cars to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be hard to see even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork. Photographs may not reflect the exact true colour or exact full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to assure themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy.
