1942 Ford Super Deluxe

For the 1942 model year, just prior to the United States entering World War II, Ford redesigned their Super Deluxe series with several visual modifications. The running boards were now fully concealed, there were new fenders and the grille was now made from stamped steel which made it easier to repair than cast grille elements. It also saved on scarce materials including zinc and chrome which were needed for war production. The taillights were positioned horizontally and received bright trim plates. The bright trim work could also be seen around the windshield, rear window and side windows. The list of body styles included a convertible, coupe, coupe sedan, station, Tudor and Fordor. During the model year, Ford produced 160,211 vehicles with 89,402 being the Super Deluxe.

Powering the Super Deluxe was an inline-six L-head unit that offered 90 horsepower and 225.8 cubic inches of displacement size. A V8 was also available, displacing 221 cubic inches and offering nearly 100 horsepower. A three-speed sliding gearbox with column shift controls was standard and at all four corners were hydraulic brakes. The pressed steel wheels were painted to match the body color. Changes to the suspension allowed the 1942 Ford models to sit an inch closer to the road, giving it a lower stance which was complemented by its wider track.

Inside, there was a left front door armrest, a full circle horn ring, crank-operated front vent windows, and an electric clock.

Pricing ranged from $850 for the 2-door coupe to $1100 for the 6-passenger station wagon. The convertible, which saw 2,920 units produced, sold for $1,080. The most popular body style was the Fordor (4 door, six-passenger) which sold for $920 and saw 24,846 vehicles sold before the US entered WWII.

Ford introduced its 1942 models on September 12th, 1941 and the U.S. officially entered World War II on December 7th, 1941 after Japan attacked Pearl Harbor. In early February 1942 civilian automobile production ceased 'for the duration of hostilities.'

by Daniel Vaughan | Oct 2011