1947 Ford Super Deluxe

In the wake of World War II the automotive industry witnessed the birth of an icon: the Ford Super Deluxe Sportsman Convertible. This model emerged from the inventive minds at Ford spearheaded by Henry Ford II designer Bob Gregorie and head illustrator Ross Cousins. The initial inspiration came from a nostalgic piece of Henry Ford IIs youth-a wood-bodied Model A roadster. Seeking to recapture this essence the team embarked on creating a halo car for Ford dealerships a vehicle that while not mass-produced would draw in customers and showcase Fords pinnacle of craftsmanship.The Sportsman was manufactured at the Iron Mountain plant in Michigan employing standard convertible body shells augmented with sedan delivery fenders and taillights. The exterior was a testament to fine craftsmanship featuring panels of the finest maple birch and mahogany each carved from solid wood. The attention to detail extended to the interiors as well with seats adorned in genuine leather facings available in tan or red and complemented by French stitching. The car boasted a power top and power windows including rear quarter panes-a luxury at the time.Production of the Sportsman was limited to the years 1946 and 1947 with a few models retitled and sold in 1948. Priced $500 above the standard convertible it was a luxury item offering a style and quality that rivaled the top-end models from competitors like GM and Chrysler. Despite its limited run the Sportsman left a lasting impact with a total of 3629 units built over three years including 205 Mercurys exclusive to 1946.Design-wise the Sportsman was a harmonious blend of practicality and luxury. The car was structurally steel differentiating it from competitors like Chryslers Town and Country which used structurally wood body panels. This design choice ensured durability as the doors were less prone to sagging over time. The vehicle incorporated the rear fenders from a 1941 sedan delivery model facilitating easier wood fitment. The power hydraulic window system was a feature borrowed from the Lincoln Continental adding a touch of elegance and convenience.Benefiting from a high-quality frame-off restoration by marque expert Nick Alexander in the mid-2000s this wonderful example has accumulated few miles since that time. According to its previous owner this is the final car produced by Ford in December 1946 and is one of fewer than 100 examples believed to have survived. The woodwork is of exceptionally good quality inside and out. The fenders and hood are beautifully finished in Black with matching wheels which have hand-painted red pinstripes for added style are fitted with Super Deluxe wheel covers and trim rings and fitted with BF Goodrich Silvertown wide whitewall tires. Chrome and brightwork are in very nice condition and the engine bay is extremely well detailed and fitted with period-correct decals wiring and hoses. Installed options include a Ford branded spotlight bumper guards radio and a factory heater.The interior of the Sportsman was a work of art featuring an Art Deco-inspired dash in mahogany accented with handsome color-keyed trim. Every aspect of its design was aimed at showcasing Fords ability to produce a premium model. It served as a flagship vehicle not just in terms of luxury and aesthetics but as a symbol of Fords innovation and commitment to excellence in the post-war era. The tidy interior is fitted with correct red leather upholstery with red carpets and a black Hartz cloth hydraulic power convertible top and this car is fitted with a Columbia two-speed rear axle giving it longer legs for highway cruising.A timeless design coupled with a low survival rate has made the Super Deluxe Sportsman Convertible one of the most sought-after of the great woodies as well as one of the most collectable post-war Fords and this example is made all the more appealing by its high-quality restoration by Nick Alexander. In essence the Ford Sportsman Convertible was more than just a car; it was a statement piece a testament to Fords vision and craftsmanship in an era of renewed hope and progress.Offers welcome and trades consideredFor additional details please view this listing directly on our website https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/7882-1947-ford-super-deluxe-sportsman-convertible/