This 1939 Ford V8 is a genuine movie star up for auction

Known for its blend of animation and live action, the 1988 film Who Framed Roger Rabbit is acclaimed as one of the best comedy movies of all-time. 

With a cast that includes Bob Hoskins and Christopher Lloyd, the film won four Academy Awards and was even chosen by the Library of Congress to be preserved in the United States National Film Registry. 

Car & Classic is giving fans the chance to own one of the four-wheeled stars of the movie, with the online auction of a 1939 Ford 91A V8.

Ready for hair and makeup

More than just an extra, the Ford was pictured alongside Bob Hoskins in his role of Eddie Valiant during a number of scenes.

Adding to its appeal, the car was also used in promotional material, with its classic styling a perfect fit for the film’s art deco aesthetic. 

Rolling off the production line in December 1939, this particular Ford four-door De Luxe was imported to the UK in the 1960s. It spent several years in a museum, before being selected for its silver screen debut. 

Like any good acting talent, the Ford underwent some preparation before its movie role. A bare metal respray was completed in 1984, with a further respray around 10 years ago. It means the car’s gloss black paintwork looks just as lustrous as when it was filmed.

Beige and Bakelite

Giving the Ford its name is a classic 85hp Flathead V8 engine, which has been mildly upgraded with an Edelbrock intake and a larger radiator. These changes were made to improve reliability and ease of use, rather than to add performance. 

This work was done by the current keeper, who has owned the Ford for the past 27 years. A comprehensive set of maintenance records and invoices is included, along with the all-important movie provenance.

The interior of the Ford is finished in brown and beige, with plenty of genuine wood trim. An original Bakelite three-spoke steering wheel is fitted, along with Bakelite switches and a glovebox-mounted clock.

For movie fans and more

As a popular choice for hot rodders, finding a Ford V8 in original condition is quite a challenge in 2023. Its role in an iconic movie clearly makes this example even more special.

“This is a Ford with a very special backstory, playing a key part in a movie that many will remember for its unique blend of actors – both real and cartoon,” said Car & Classic’s Dale Vinten. 

“Today, the car not only holds that appeal to fans of Roger, Jessica and Bob Hoskins, but it also is a very original pre-war Ford that benefits from subtle upgrades to enjoy and show for many years to come.”

The Car & Classic online listing for the Ford 91A V8 is now live. When bids close on Thursday 24 August 2023, the sale price is expected to be between £20,000 and £30,000.

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