The first woodies were manufactured in the early 1900s by local coach makers. They would buy the chassis without bodies and then construct the bodies out of wood themselves. The coach makers would then sell their creations to local business owners, oftentimes to nearby hotels and resorts who would use them to transport guests to and from the train stations. The Woody’s popularity continued to grow until finally in 1929, Ford released its own version of it. Ford marketed the cars as an all-purpose utilitarian vehicle with low initial cost, as wood-bodied cars were less expensive to build than steel-bodies cars.
This Woody was purchased from Mecum auction (https://www.mecum.com/lots/CA0817-303130/1940-ford-deluxe-woody-wagon/) in August of 2019 and garage kept in Park City, Utah. Whether stock or modified, the Woody is a popular car, and this 1940 Woody Deluxe example we have here has benefited from modernizing for additional power and appeal. The original exterior was immaculately maintained, giving the car a stock look at first glance. The project began around the 1940 Ford chassis and an all-steel body shell. For power, the engine chosen was a 350 CI V-8 mated to an automatic transmission, allowing the original column-shift mechanism to be used. Later, Ford technology supplied the modernized suspension pieces from a Mustang II front end and sturdy 9-inch Ford differential. The body is finished in a light cream paint with a darker-toned too and wooden doors and rear paneling. Inside is a new Ron Magnus interior, in the same tones as the exterior. Wood paneling, insulation, carpet and leather abound, with the bench seats finished in a light brown. The steering wheel is the classic Ford V-8 design, mounted on an aftermarket column. The factory gauges remain in their bezels, and an accessory clock is in front of the passenger seat. A custom sound system by Stereo Bob in Rialto, CA, completes much of the interior. Subtle steel wheels painted in body color feature trim rings and round center caps, they are dressed in wide whitewall tires. Gorgeous from any angle, this 1940 Woody Wagon features the best of 1940 with a modern touch.
Specs:
-350Ci V-8 Engine
-Automatic transmission
-Ford Mustang II front end
-9 inch Ford rear end
-Original steel body
-New Ron Magnus interior
-Insulation, carpet, and leather
-Custom sound system by Stereo Bob in Rialto, CA
