Lot 21: Ford V8 MODEL 48 DROPHEAD COUP�

Built at Dagenham, the third incarnation of the immortal V8 Ford, the Model 48 was available for the UK market and featured revised frontal styling giving a more thrust forward, sleek appearance.� Available during 1935 only and with UK production totalling just 616 units, the models listed were two and four-door saloons, a shooting brake and handsome drophead coup� (or convertible cabriolet, to use Ford's parlance).� The 80bhp output equated to a top speed of 85mph with very brisk acceleration and this combination of high performance and a modest cost was to become Ford's hallmark.�Understood to have had just two previous owners, this V8 48 Drophead Coup� is said to have been supplied new to the Thorneycroft family who were boatbuilders.� The car is understood to have remained in the hands of its previous owner, a garage proprietor in Hampshire, for some forty years and during this ownership a sympathetic restoration is believed to have been undertaken.� Finished in Old English White, the car retains its original red leather upholstery and has matching wire wheels.� With the dickey seat in use, five people travel comfortably making this an ideal motor car for longer distance events with its ample power.� Mechanically it is described as being in good condition throughout, the cooling system having been fitted with new hoses and a stainless steel exhaust system having been installed.�Interestingly, we are informed that the car travelled to the 1936 Olympic Games and a plaque is supplied to substantiate this.� Described as a good original unmolested car, it is offered with original logbooks, a number of previous MOT certificates and the driver's handbook.� A current MOT certificate is supplied, this being valid until 14th August 2008, together with a Swansea V5 registration document attesting to the original London registration number and the original old-style buff logbook.This is a rare opportunity to acquire a very original example of this desirable V8 Ford.