1946 Ford Super Deluxe Sportsman Convertible

The Ford Sportsman was the first wood-bodied convertible ever produced. It was an idea of company president Henry Ford II who was searching for a car that could be used for family outings. E.T. 'Bob' Gregorie was tasked with building a one-off body on an old Model A chassis. The car was given the wood-paneled themes of station wagons which the company had produced for years. The one-off became so popular, Ford decided to create a similar production convertible that became known as the Sportsman. It would be the only brand-new design for Ford in 1946, as most automakers resume production of their pre-war models.

Ford produced only 2274 examples of the Sportsman on the Super Deluxe series chassis. They were fitted with many luxury amenities and desirable features. Accordingly, it was the first Ford to retail for more than $2,000 since the 1908 Model K.

For 1946, Ford produced only 723 examples of the Sportsman convertible, and less than 100 are known to exist in modern times. The current owner of this example acquired it in July of 1999. A short time later, the engine was rebuilt and all mechanical and drivetrain components were evaluated and rebuilt as needed. The transmission was rebuilt and new bearings and synchromesh gears were installed. Since the completion of the work, only 300 miles have been added to the car.

This car features a Columbia overdrive and three-speed column shift. The body is finished in Dynamic Maroon with a matching red leather interior. There is mahogany plywood paneling with a varnish seal.

This Super Deluxe features options such as hydraulic windows, original radio, dashboard clock, and maple wood grain dash appliqué.

The engine is a 239 cubic-inch L-head V-8 fitted with a Holley 2-barrel carburetor. There are four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes.

In 2010, this Sportsman was offered for sale at Gooding & Company's auction held in Amelia Island, Florida. The car was expected to sell for $225,000 - $275,000. As bidding came to a close, the car had been sold for the sum of $233,750, inclusive of buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Apr 2010