The 1949 Ford was a crucial vehicle for the company, representing its first new model since before World War II. Its appearance was groundbreaking, being its first offering featuring “ponton” styling that integrated the fenders into the bodyline and eliminated such old-world features as running boards. For 1950, the changes were evolutionary, and our feature car is a vehicle from that model year. It has sat in this barn since 1984, but the seller dragged it into the light of day, ready for it to find a new home. The Ford is listed here on Craigslist in Pueblo, Colorado. You could take home this classic by handing the seller $3,500. Barn Finder T.J. has struck gold with this Ford, so thank you so much for referring it, T.J.

What surprises me about this Ford is its lack of significant rust issues. The seller notes minor problems, but the only ones visible are small spots in both lower front fenders. Otherwise, any exterior rust is nothing but surface corrosion. It is unclear whether the story continues on the underside, but initial impressions are positive. The original owner ordered it finished in Sunland Beige, and it retains that color. The state of the paint below the heavy dust layer is unclear, but it looks consistent. That raises the tempting prospect of treating the car to a wash and polish, addressing the rust and corrosion, and retaining this classic as a survivor-grade vehicle. It would undoubtedly attract attention returned to its former glory, but there would be no less attention if it remained essentially as-is. The glass looks free from significant flaws, but some trim pieces would benefit from a trip to the platers.

This Ford’s interior looks as tired as the exterior, but it could be serviceable with a deep clean, and if a blanket was thrown over the front seat. The back seat upholstery is free from rips, and I believe that some of the modern cleaning products available could significantly reduce the stains and marks on it and the headliner. They won’t save the front seat, which is pretty shredded. There are rips on other upholstered surfaces, which might prompt the new owner to opt for spending $1,800 on a retrim. Alternatively, the existing upholstery would make an excellent template if the new owner purchased the correct cloth off the roll. Should they know someone handy with a sewing machine, producing respectable DIY replacements could prove significantly cheaper with this approach. Even if they follow that plan, spending $190.00 on a carpet set could add the perfect finishing touch. The wheel has only one small crack, and the painted surfaces should look respectable following a polish.

The seller supplies no engine photos but reveals the company’s 226ci flathead six resides under the hood. It would have sent 95hp to the rear wheels via a three-speed manual transmission. Outright performance figures are largely irrelevant, but this Tudor would have transported six people comfortably while cruising happily at 55 – 60mph. The seller indicates the car doesn’t run, and it probably hasn’t since the previous owner parked it in the 1980s. However, the motor turns freely, raising the possibility that it may only take a fuel system clean and refresh and some essential maintenance to breathe new life into the drivetrain. Perishable items require careful attention after so long, but if the buyer revives the six, the remaining work could represent more satisfying DIY tasks.

The 1949 Ford proved a sales winner for the company, and the evolutionary 1950 model proved no less popular. Of the 816,371 buyers who handed over their cash that year, 396,060 selected the Deluxe Tudor with a six under the hood. Cars once thick on the ground are seen less frequently today, particularly in their original and unmolested form. This complete classic could be an excellent first restoration project, although history suggests it is unlikely to be a high-value car once the new owner completes their work. However, it is a build that could involve the entire family and represent an excellent bonding experience. That’s something upon which you can’t put a price, and even though its ultimate value is unlikely to be far beyond $20,000, it still deserves a close look.