1941 Ford Super Deluxe Woody Wagon 1
Image by Steamjet 54
Originally created as a cheaper utilitarian vehicle, the Ford Woody quickly turned into one of the most iconic and recognizable cars of all time.
In the earliest days of motoring, aerodynamics was not a primary focus of automobile engineers. As the 1920s approached, cars became more efficient, leading designers and engineers to craft new ways to make their vehicles more streamlined. Aerodynamics grew into more of a concern in the 1930’s, with wind tunnels and other forms of efficiency testing more readily available. With these advances, a shift had begun to take place in the industry: boxy, upright designs were left behind, welcoming in a new generation of design and innovation.
The first woodies were manufactured in the early 1900s by local coach makers, who purchased chassis without bodies, and constructed the bodies out of wood themselves. The coach makers would then sell these bespoke creations to local business owners, oftentimes to nearby hotels and resorts, who would use them as small buses to transport guests to and from the local train stations. This early usage led to the vehicles being known first as “depot hacks,” referring to the train depots and the old horse-drawn carriage nickname of “hack.”
The 1941 Ford Super Deluxe Woody represents when innovation and standardization came together. This Woody was equipped with the newly patented glass sealed beam headlamp, the safest and most effective headlights of the time.
While the shape and intensity of early 1940’s headlamps standardized, designers devised new ways of using headlamps to influence a car’s design language. Headlights on all new Fords were now flush with the body to reduce drag. Other brands quickly followed suit, turning a strict regulation into an effective and stylish solution.
Engine: 3.62L Flathead V8 (221 C.I.)
Horsepower: 85 hp
Transmission: 3-speed Manual
Lights: Sealed Beam Headlamps, Flush With the Body
