A pre-war classic preserved
Not every pre-war Ford has survived the decades without being chopped, lowered, or rebuilt into something unrecognizable. This 1936 Ford Model 68 Deluxe Cabriolet is different. Offered from Cameron Park, California, it’s a car that has been preserved and refreshed rather than re-imagined, keeping its period features intact while benefiting from thoughtful updates like a new convertible soft top and a repainted finish. It shows 9,869 exempt miles and has the kind of presence that made these cars iconic back in the day. This particular 1936 Ford Model 68 Deluxe Cabriolet with low miles is for sale on Exotic Car Trader, and you can check out the listing by clicking here.
1936 Ford Model 68 Deluxe Cabriolet Source: Exotic Car Trader
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The look of the mid-thirties
The upright boxy shapes that Ford was known for during the Depression years were replaced by 1936 with smoother curves and Art Deco influences, which this car reflects. The Model 68 lineup featured a redesigned grille with a pointed “V” profile, fenders that blended more naturally into the body, and a lower, more modern stance. These changes gave the cars a sleeker appearance, and they became some of the most stylish offerings of the decade.
1936 Ford Model 68 Deluxe Cabriolet Source: Exotic Car Trader
This Cabriolet reflects those choices with its Cordoba Tan exterior, set off by chrome bumpers and trim. The refreshed paintwork keeps the car’s original character intact, while the replaced convertible top makes it usable when the weather turns. The proportions are balanced and elegant, with flowing fenders and a rumble seat out back that adds to its period charm.
1936 Ford Model 68 Deluxe Cabriolet Source: Exotic Car Trader
A luxe cabin with vintage appeal
The car’s interior features front bench seating in tan leather that’s era-specific, while the rumble seat in back reminds you this was a time when riding outside was very much part of the experience. The design is simple and old-school elegant, with clean door panels, a clear instrument cluster, and a steering wheel that anchors the dashboard. Everything feels period-correct, with just enough updates to keep things current but never so much that it loses its original feel.
1936 Ford Model 68 Deluxe Cabriolet Source: Exotic Car Trader
The Model 68’s flathead V8
Power comes from Ford’s 221 cubic-inch flathead V8, paired with a 3-speed sliding-gear manual transmission. When it was introduced in the early 1930s, the flathead offered smooth performance and dependable power at a price point within reach of average buyers. By 1936, it was producing about 85 horsepower, which was more than enough to move cars this large with ease.
1936 Ford Model 68 Deluxe Cabriolet Source: Exotic Car Trader
This example keeps that setup intact, with the flathead sending power to the rear wheels and working with the car’s transverse leaf spring suspension and four-wheel mechanical drum brakes. It’s not modern performance, but it is authentic and consistent pre-war driving.
1936 Ford Model 68 Deluxe Cabriolet Source: Exotic Car Trader
Final thoughts
This Cabriolet shows careful updates where they matter, but it hasn’t lost the spirit of the 1930s. The flathead engine, Art Deco styling, and rumble seat all remain, providing a complete picture of what cars looked and felt like before the war. For someone who wants a genuine link to automotive history without stepping into over-restored or heavily modified territory, this 1936 Ford Model 68 Deluxe Cabriolet is a good choice. It has maintained its authenticity, with just enough updating to keep it relevant today.
About the author
Michelle Nati
Contributing Writer, Autoblog