Imagine the world of 1949. America was emerging from World War II, and the postwar boom was fueling economic and industrial growth. Pop culture trends gave rise to new music and a growing television industry. There was a shift toward suburban living, and new housing developments were springing up around the country. That’s what happened in Phoenix, Arizona, and my home was one of many that were constructed in 1949.
I imagine what it would have been like to park the following car in my home’s driveway when both the car – and my home – were brand-new:
The Pick of the Day is a 1949 Ford 2-door convertible listed for sale on ClassicCars.com by a private seller in Ferndale, Washington. (Click here to view the listing)
“20-year-old restoration, always stored inside,” the listing says. The car reportedly originated in California, and its Miami Cream body looks to have straight lines and precise panel gaps based on the photos. Even its tan ragtop is in nice condition considering the age of the restoration. Take a close look at the unique hood ornament. It has a conventional chrome base but is capped by a semi-circular clear sphere, presumably made of Lucite or a similar material. I was unable to identify the origins of such a design, but maybe some of our readers can shed some light on it in the comment section.
The cabin is upholstered in tan vinyl with “49 Ford” embroidery on the seatback. Lap belts, floor mats and a modern audio system have been added. Also, the car has an obligatory pair of fuzzy dice hanging from the rearview mirror.
Up front, power comes from a rebuilt 230ci flathead V8 mated to a three-speed manual overdrive transmission. The odometer shows 66,815 miles, but true mileage on the chassis is unknown. The seller says that the electrical system has been converted to 12 volts and employs an alternator, but all other components of the running gear are original.
Ford’s standard “Tudor” models for 1949 started at around $1,500. The Custom Convertible retailed at $1,950. For comparison purposes, a Lincoln at the time ranged in price from about $2,500 to $3,100. The asking price for this ragtop is $30,000 today.
Incidentally, I came across a classified listing from the Arizona Republic newspaper in September 1949 announcing homes in my neighborhood selling for $6,450, including the lot. Can you imagine? That comes out to $86,091 today, which is still an unheard-of steal.
All the more reason I’d love to travel back in time to buy a few homes and a few cars. Anyone care to join me for the adventure?
Click here to view this Pick of the Day on ClassicCars.com
