Despite Chevrolet taking over as sales-leader while Ford retooled at the end of Model T production, the new Model A soon returned Ford to its comfortable place at the top of the sales charts – if only temporarily. Since the days of the Tin Lizzie, the climate of the automobile market changed dramatically, and Ford had to become more fluid to keep up with rapidly changing trends. Compared to the long-running Model T, the Model A's tenure was relatively short, but the car had been an undoubted success and provided the company with momentum going into the 1930s. By 1932, the Model A was phased out, in favor of an all-new car powered by America's first low-cost V8 passenger car engine. Buyers could still opt for the 4-cylinder Model B, but it was the "flathead" V8 that got the headlines and most of the customers. Despite the fanfare surrounding its release, the Ford V8 didn't fully succeed in knocking Chevy off the coveted top spot. However, the Ford V8 gained legions of loyal fans and would go on to become an American legend in its own right. This car introduced eight-cylinder power to the people and would form the foundation of America's love affair with V8-powered speed.

The V8 served as the cornerstone of Ford's passenger car lineup throughout the 1930s and beyond. Styling constantly evolved, with changes made on an annual basis to keep the car fresh and competitive. Ford continued to offer a wide range of open body styles while its competitors trended toward coupes and sedans. One of the most desirable is the handsome, wood-bodied station wagon. It employed standard sheet metal up front, with a wood-framed main body and a distinct, sharply raked roofline. The stylish people-mover is the embodiment of the American "Woody," and pop culture icon thanks to surf-culture and hot rodders. Today, unmodified examples are rare and are cherished by the grassroots enthusiast to some of the world's most prominent collectors.

The Murray Corporation, responsible for the wagon bodies, introduced notable updates for 1933, including a longer, wider design and a signature grille, earning this model a reputation as one of the most desirable production cars of the era. Priced at $640, it featured updated, streamlined styling with wider front doors, sloping A-pillars, and a rubberized canvas roof over the maple-framed cab. Just 1,654 were built, making them rare even in their day.

This 1933 Ford Station Wagon is a lovely example with an honest, broken-in character thanks to its well-maintained older restoration. This wonderfully inviting and authentic car presents with excellent woodwork and sheet metal. Presented in period-correct tan with black fenders and a brown interior—one of only two color combinations available for the model year. The finish quality is consistent on all surfaces, with a few minor imperfections associated with time and use, and it remains attractive and appealing.

Importantly, the wood body is in excellent condition. The finish and quality are consistent throughout, showing the woodwork is well-restored and maintained. Doors fit well without signs of sagging that can afflict neglected examples. Notable features include a passenger-side-mounted spare, cowl lights, and a full set of removable side curtains.

The interior features period-correct brown upholstery, while rubber floor mats and wood door panels reveal the car's utilitarian purpose. Seats are in excellent order thanks to the use of the proper, hard-wearing vinyl, and the body-color steel dash features original instruments and switchgear in good cosmetic condition. One of the interior highlights is the exposed wooden ceiling rafters, contributing both charm and authenticity. With room for up to seven passengers, this Ford is a great classic to enjoy with family and friends.

Fords of this era are tremendously fun to drive, and this example is no exception. Ford’s legendary 221-cubic-inch flathead V-8 engine delivers plenty of power to motor along with ease, with good brakes and a stable chassis that inspire confidence for relaxed cruising. This car's engine is well-detailed with proper green paint and period-correct labels, hose clamps, and hardware. An additional set of wire wheels, fitted with radial tires, are included with the car.

This 1933 Ford V-8 Deluxe Station Wagon exemplifies Ford’s early mastery of stylish yet practical design. With its combination of authentic wood-bodied charm and robust V8 performance, it stands as a significant and highly collectible piece of early American motoring history.

Offers welcome and trades considered

$58,500

Stock number 7816