This 1935 Ford Model 48 De Luxe 5-Window Coupe is a desirable pre-war classic with a fantastic look. Few automobiles from the prewar era command the admiration and passion surrounding this model. Elegant yet purposeful, refined yet accessible, the 1935 Ford represents one of the finest expressions of American automobile design from the decade. It was revolutionary in its day and remains one of the most beloved classics in the hobby nearly ninety years later.
By the mid-1930s, Henry Ford and his team had established a reputation for delivering remarkable value and innovation. The Model 48, introduced for 1935, built upon the foundation of the well-received 1934 Model 40B, refining and improving nearly every aspect of the automobile. It featured a smoother, more streamlined body and improved mechanical systems, making it Ford’s most accomplished effort yet in the affordable performance segment.
The engine that made the 1935 Ford legendary is the Ford Flathead V8. First introduced in 1932, the Flathead was a groundbreaking achievement that brought genuine V8 power within reach of everyday American drivers. By 1935, it was refined to produce approximately 85 horsepower, surpassing inline four- and six-cylinder competitors. The Flathead V8's legacy extends beyond the 1930s, becoming the foundation of American hot rod culture and remaining one of the most iconic engines ever produced.
Within the 1935 Ford lineup, the DeLuxe 5-Window Coupe holds a special place. Its distinctive five-window configuration gave it a unique, rakish appearance that set it apart from the more common 3-window body style. The DeLuxe trim added extra refinement with brightwork and upgraded interior appointments. Sleek, purposeful, and handsome, the 5-Window Coupe is widely regarded as one of the most attractive body styles Ford produced during the prewar era.
No prewar automobile has had a greater influence on American car culture than the 1935 Ford. Along with its 1932 through 1936 siblings, the '35 Ford became a foundational platform for the postwar hot rod movement. Its lightweight body, strong Flathead V8, and graceful styling made it an ideal canvas for customization. Legendary builders transformed these cars into rolling works of art. Today, stock and restored examples are highly prized for their authenticity and historical significance.
Nearly nine decades after leaving the factory, an original 1935 Ford Model 48 DeLuxe 5-Window Coupe is a rare find. These cars survived the Great Depression, World War II scrap drives, and decades of attrition, making each authentic survivor a tangible connection to a fascinating chapter in American history.
This particular example comes from a Southern collector who maintained it in a large collection of classic cars. Powering this '35 Ford Deluxe Coupe is a 221 cubic inch Flathead V8 engine fed by a single 2-barrel downdraft carburetor, originally producing around 90 horsepower. The engine is paired with a 3-speed manual transmission, shifted easily with a floor-mounted shifter. Exhaust exits via a single setup, producing a muted rumble at idle and cruising speed.
As a DeLuxe model, it comes equipped with several upgrades, including a pair of horns mounted up front.
