SHINING SHOWPIECE: Henry Ford’s 1940 cutaway chassis displayed the wonder of its working parts and wowed crowds at the World’s Fair

December 4, 2015
Posted by Barrett-Jackson

Written by independent automotive journalist Roger C. Johnson

Henry Ford built this rolling 1940 Ford Deluxe Chassis (Lot #1340) as a travelling display of his company’s engineering prowess.

The 1940 Ford was one of the most beautiful car designs of its era and has proudly carried that banner ever since. That’s why so many of us still crave them, build them and drive them. Back then, Ford was happy to show off the underpinnings of the best-looking car on the road anywhere it could. For that very reason, Henry Ford built this rolling 1940 Ford Deluxe Chassis (Lot #1340) as a travelling display of his company’s engineering prowess. It was the perfect vehicle to project many of the new features that particular model car offered the public. It was displayed at the 1939 World’s Fair in New York City, in addition to a number of State Fairs around the country.

This display may have contributed to the car’s moonshine-running lore, as it gave interested parties a good look at the car’s layout, capability and potential for even better performance. This display piece showcases a correct flat-head V8, but with chrome-plated heads. Notice how the engine is set back behind the front axle centerline for superior weight distribution.

The entire steering mechanism is in place, completely functional and also chromed for visual effect. Even the exhaust manifolds and pipes proudly wear chrome plating. The newly introduced 3-speed manual transmission and its column shift linkage arrangement are also bolted into position and chromed-plated, as well. The same goes for the brakes and their supporting components.

Let’s face it: this is the best-looking 1940 Ford rolling chassis any of us have ever seen. The number “1” is stamped on the frame rail to confirm this artifact’s place in history. The ’40 Ford carries a wheelbase of 112 inches, 5 inches longer between the axle lines than a brand-new high-tech Mustang.

Besides the obvious promotional benefits this display has provided Ford, it is also the ultimate training tool and has been used as such in driver’s education departments and other venues. This fantastic piece of automotive history was one of 40 1940 Fords invited to the Grand National Roadster Show celebrating the model’s 75th birthday.

This will be a great addition to any car collection, since it represents the figurative ‒ if not literal ‒ backbone of our hobby in all three dimensions. It supported and launched one of the coolest American cars towards the future and ultimately into the history books.

The winning bid at Barrett-Jackson’s Scottsdale Auction in January brought this beautiful one-of-one Henry Ford creation directly to its new home. Driver’s seat not included.

‒Written by independent automotive journalist Roger C. Johnson

For the sale price of this chassis, click HERE.