1938 Ford Tudor Sedan
Ford’s 1938 lineup abandoned the practice of differentiating Standard and Deluxe models through trim alone, instead employing distinct sheet metal for each series.
Standard models retained the bustle-back profile carried over from the 1937 Touring Sedan, while Deluxe variants received streamlined rear bodywork, with this two-line strategy extending to both Tudor and Fordor configurations.
The Standard Tudor Sedan (Model 81A-700) outsold all other 1938 Ford variants, with 106,117 units finding buyers at the $665 list price.
Briggs Manufacturing supplied bodies to Ford, and Standard equipment reflected the model’s economy positioning with a single left-hand taillight, a left-side-only windshield wiper, sun visor, and armrest.
The optional 221-cubic-inch flathead V-8 produced 85 horsepower through a three-speed manual transmission, providing performance that remained competitive in the low-priced field. Many buyers still opted for the V-8 despite the availability of a less expensive four-cylinder.
These prewar Fords carried distinctive styling elements including integrated grille slats extending into the hood sides and the characteristic rounded rear treatment on Standard models.
The Early Ford V-8 Club of America administers a Dearborn Award program recognizing restored examples that meet exacting standards, with judging based on originality, condition, and authenticity across hundreds of detailed criteria.
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