The seller refers to this 1939 Ford Coupe as an older restoration, although its updated engine and interior may lead some to class it as a refurbishment. They admit the paint shows some age, but its overall tidy presentation and excellent mechanical health mean a new owner could enjoy this classic immediately while contemplating a cosmetic refresh. It is a turnkey classic, and I must say a big thank you to eagle-eyed Barn Finder T.J. for spotting it.

Deciding to part with a classic that has been part of your life for decades must be difficult, but that is the story behind this Ford. It has been part of the seller’s family since 1965, and its overall condition suggests it has been cherished and pampered. The seller describes it as an older restoration, and while they acknowledge its Dartmouth Green paint shows age through cracking, the lack of glaring issues and the healthy shine means it still presents well. The panels are straight, and the gaps are tight and consistent. One problem it has successfully avoided is rust. The seller claims that 100% of its steel is original, which is a significant achievement for any car with eighty-five years of active service behind it. The seller supplies underside shots, revealing no frame or floor issues. The trim shines warmly against the darker paint, and while the glass has some scuffs and flaws, there are no cracks or other significant problems.

This Coupe’s interior is an undoubted highlight, and the lack of wear and physical damage is consistent with a car that has been treated respectfully. The seatcovers are spotless, and there is no sagging on the outer edges. The door trims are equally impressive, while the painted surfaces are spotless. The floor wears a rubber mat that is in good order, and there is no significant wheel wear. Luxury appointments like radios were expensive in 1939, but this Coupe features a restored and functioning AM unit.

I described this Ford as refurbished, and one look under the hood reveals why I feel this way. Its engine bay would originally have housed a 221ci flathead V8 delivering 90hp and 155 ft/lbs of torque to the rear wheels via a three-speed manual transmission. However, the 221 made way for a 255ci powerplant of 1953 vintage during the build. It is unclear whether the new flathead features any enhancements beyond the dual exhaust, but even in stock form, outputs will have climbed to 125hp and 218 ft/lbs. The car retains a three-speed, but the case contains Lincoln-Zephyr gears. One unchanged feature is the electrical system, which remains at six volts. The seller describes the Coupe as a turnkey classic. They say it runs and drives well, floating the idea that the new owner could fly in and drive it home.

The seller listed this 1939 Ford Coupe here on Facebook Marketplace in Kokomo, Indiana. For the asking price of $20,000, it seems to offer a lot to a new owner. It has only been on the market a short time, and I would be unsurprised if it finds a new owner reasonably quickly. What would you do if you found this Ford in your garage? Would you preserve it, or would the lure of a cosmetic refresh prove irresistible?