Chassis No. 1899649

Shortly after World War II, a footrace would begin among all American manufacturers who sought to reignite their lineups for optimistic American buyers who were eager for the latest automobile. As the latest offering from The Blue Oval, the Ford Sportsman would offer an all-new look for the brand that allowed them to compete with Chrysler's highly successful Town and Country. Appealing to an upscale buyer with a unique convertible coupe body covered by mahogany-veneer inserts surrounded by genuine maple or birch framing, this new model was introduced with a cost of over $2,000 and would be built in extremely limited production numbers quite different from Ford's usual standards. Cited as the first new model introduced by Henry Ford II, Ford would produce only 3,692 Sportsman examples across three years of production.

Built in 1947, this Ford Sportsman is one of very few surviving as most of its life was spent on the West Coast which left it in well-preserved condition prior to a full restoration being commissioned in the mid-2000s. Completed in 2007, the nut-and-bolt restoration was executed to exacting standards as evidenced by the prestigious Dearborn Award for superior originality, restoration excellence, and drivability which it would win that June, an achievement considered by many to be the ultimate Ford trophy.

The Sportsman joined the consignor's outstanding Southern California based collection of exceptional pre and post-war concours quality cars in January 2008, and has since been expertly maintained by in-house restoration specialists. The accompanying service and maintenance book reflects periodical oil changes, in addition to work done to the convertible top and power window hydraulic systems. Finished in an attractive, factory-correct Maize Yellow with a correct tan soft-top and stunning Golden Tan interior, period Firestone whitewall tires, chrome front and rear bumpers, and body-matched painted wheels complete this most desirable specification. With a production number of 3,605, this late-production example has been kept in spectacular condition and is offered with just over 1,000 miles following restoration and is believed to be one of less than 100 surviving examples. A rare and attractive example appealing equally to both Ford and postwar car enthusiasts, the next owner will have a wide selection of prominent events, from the Ford V8 Club to AACA competitions, with which to enjoy this Ford Sportsman.