This 1934 Ford Cabriolet was a barn find in 2008 and nearly lost to rust and neglect, a 3 year full body off restoration was completed in 2011. This is only one of very few stock survivors of the 15,664 models built that year. The original MSRP was $590.
The 1934 Ford Cabriolet is a classic American automobile that combines stylish design, solid performance, and historical significance. Its V8 engine, elegant bodywork, and cultural impact make it a cherished piece of automotive history. Whether preserved in its original form or transformed into a custom hot rod, the 1934 Ford Cabriolet remains a beloved classic that continues to captivate car enthusiasts around the world.
Overview
- Production Year: 1934
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Model: Ford Cabriolet (Model 40)
Design and Specifications
- Engine:
- The 1934 Ford Cabriolet was powered by a 3.6-liter (221 cubic inches) flathead V8 engine.
- This engine produced 85 horsepower, which was a significant amount of power for its time and contributed to the car's popularity.
- The V8 engine was known for its reliability and performance, offering smooth acceleration and good top speed for the era.
- Transmission:
- The car came with a 3-speed manual transmission.
- The transmission featured synchromesh on second and third gears, improving the driving experience and making gear changes smoother.
- Chassis:
- The Model 40 chassis was sturdy and well-designed, providing a solid foundation for the car's body and mechanical components.
- It had a wheelbase of 112 inches, which contributed to a comfortable ride and stable handling.
- Suspension:
- The front suspension used a solid axle with transverse leaf springs.
- The rear suspension also featured a solid axle with transverse leaf springs.
- This setup was typical for the time and provided a balance between comfort and handling.
- Brakes:
- The 1934 Ford Cabriolet was equipped with mechanical drum brakes on all four wheels, which were standard for the era and provided adequate stopping power.
Performance
- Top Speed: The Ford Cabriolet could achieve a top speed of approximately 75 mph (121 km/h), which was quite impressive for a car of its time.
- Acceleration: The car's V8 engine provided good acceleration, making it one of the more spirited performers of the 1930s.
- Handling: With its well-balanced chassis and suspension setup, the 1934 Ford offered decent handling and a relatively comfortable ride for its era.
Design Features
- Bodywork:
- The 1934 Ford Cabriolet featured a sleek and stylish design with flowing lines and an elegant profile.
- It was a two-door convertible, offering an open-air driving experience with a folding soft top.
- The car had a distinctive front grille with vertical bars and prominent headlights mounted on the fenders.
- Interior:
- The interior was simple yet functional, with seating for two passengers.
- It featured a basic dashboard with essential gauges and controls.
- The materials used for the interior were of good quality, providing a comfortable and pleasant environment.
- Styling:
- The car's styling was a blend of elegance and sportiness, with a low and wide stance that gave it a dynamic look.
- Chrome accents and details added to the car's visual appeal, making it stand out on the road.
- The Cabriolet's design has been praised for its timeless beauty and is considered one of the most attractive cars of the 1930s.
Legacy and Historical Significance
- Historical Significance:
- The 1934 Ford Cabriolet is significant for its contribution to the popularity of the V8 engine in mass-market cars.
- It represents an important period in automotive history when car design and engineering were rapidly advancing.
- Cultural Impact:
- The 1934 Ford has become an icon of American automotive culture, particularly in the hot rod and custom car scenes.
- Its distinctive design and performance capabilities have made it a favorite among car enthusiasts and collectors.
Taken at the Hilton Head Island Concours d'Elegance & Motoring Festival.
You may purchase a print of the 1934 Ford Cabriolet in our dElegance 2015 online gallery.
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