Image by Tiina Nuortimo.
Did you know..
1939 was the first year for Ford vehicle lineup to have hydraulic braking system replacing the mechanical brakes.
Image by Tiina Nuortimo.
1939 Ford Passenger cars
The 1939 Ford passenger cars were continuing basically the same styling as 1937 and 1938 models. The models released in 1939 were the Standard and the Deluxe. These cars represented Ford's offerings before a transitional period of 1941, when the body style changed just before the WWII.
The 1939 Ford passenger cars featured a more streamlined and modern design compared to their predecessors. They had a sleeker appearance with revised grille, and integrated headlights. Although headlights on Standard model resembled the 1938 Deluxe. The cars were available in various body styles, including two-door and four-door sedans, two-door coupes, and convertible sedans.
Under the hood, the 1939 Ford cars were equipped with a 3.6-liter V8 engine, known as the "flathead" V8. This engine produced around 85 horsepower, providing decent performance for the time. The cars had rear-wheel drive and came with a manual transmission.
There were two engine options for 1939 Standards:
1. 136cid Ford Flathead V8-60 with 60hp
2. 221cid V8-85 with 85hp.
The American build cars most often had the bigger 85Hp engines, when in Europe they could be either one. Deluxe models only had the larger 85hp Flatheads.
The 1939 Fords also had enhanced safety feature for the time, it was the first year for hydraulic brakes.
The 1939 Ford Deluxe was positioned as the higher-end model and offered additional features and options compared to the Standard model. The Deluxe models had more luxurious interior appointments, including better upholstery and trim options.
These cars were well-received by the public and sold in significant numbers. They were popular for their attractive styling, reliability, and affordability. The 1939 Ford passenger cars are considered classics today and are sought after by car enthusiasts and collectors.
Mika's 1939 Ford Standard Fordor
This 1939 Ford Standard is located in Finland. The owner is my brother, Mika.
He purchased the car from California in 2015 from California and got it shipped to Finland. It's pretty much in similar condition what it was when he got it. The exterior and interior are both worn out (someone would call it a patina), but they are most likely all original. It does not seem to be repainted - ever, which is a bit of a surprising for any pre-war car.
Because it's a "Standard" model, it lacks on accessories and features from more highly priced "Deluxe" model. For example, it only came with one sun visor and tail light, when Deluxe had 2 of each. This Standard is equipped with 221 cid 85hp Flathead V8.
The only repairs Ford really needed were the carburetor rebuild and replaced the odd-looking aftermarket headlights with brand new original style lamps. Other than that, it has been a Mika's daily driver during the summer months. In last two years it has accumulated 3000 kilometers (1900 miles).
