1936 Ford Deluxe Three-Window Coupe
The 1936 Ford Deluxe Three-Window Coupe featured freestanding headlights in their final year before Ford integrated them into the front fenders for 1937, marking the end of a distinctive design characteristic.
The three-window configuration created a sleek coupe profile that distinguished it from Ford’s five-window variant, with windows positioned on each side and at the rear.
Ford revised the chassis for 1935, moving the engine 8.5 inches forward and widening the body by 5.5 inches compared to 1933–1934 models, which improved both proportions and interior space. The 1936 exterior styling represented a transitional period between the angular designs of the early 1930s and the more streamlined looks that would follow.
Under the hood sat Ford’s proven 221 cubic inch flathead V8 engine producing 85 horsepower, paired with a three-speed manual transmission. This version of the flathead (21-stud) featured insert-type main bearings, improving serviceability compared to the earlier poured babbitt design.
The Three-Window Coupe became extremely popular in the hot rod community, with many builders favoring its proportions over roadsters. Common modifications included chopped tops (typically 2–3 inches), dropped front axles for a lowered stance, and engine swaps to small-block Chevrolet V8s.
These customs often featured updated grilles, custom bumpers, and fender modifications, transforming the factory design into personalized hot rods that remain highly sought after today.
The Model 68 series, which included this Deluxe Coupe, was a strong seller in 1936, with 21,446 Three-Window Coupes built. Its blend of style, performance, and affordability helped Ford remain highly competitive in the low-price market segment.
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