1930 Ford Model A 40-B Deluxe Roadster

Description

The 1930 Ford 40-B Deluxe Roadster was part of the Model A lineup, introduced as Ford’s stylish response to the evolving automotive market during the Great Depression. Positioned above the Standard Roadster, the Deluxe variant offered upscale touches such as a rumble seat, chrome accents, and premium interior trim. It was powered by Ford’s reliable 201-cubic-inch L-head inline-four engine, producing 40 horsepower, paired with a three-speed manual transmission. 

Body development for the 40-B was a collaboration between Ford and the Edward G. Budd Manufacturing Company, a pioneer in all-steel body construction. Unlike earlier wood-framed designs, Budd’s stamped steel panels provided greater durability and allowed efficient shipping to Ford assembly plants. The 40-B featured a sleek cowl, revised windshield stanchions, and minimal wood content, reflecting the industry’s shift toward all-metal bodies. 

In mid-1930, Ford expanded color options for the Deluxe Roadster, introducing hues like Brewster Green, Lombard Blue, and Ford Maroon, paired with black beltlines. Costing $495 in 1930, Ford said the Deluxe Roadster was, “Priced to meet the times — yet with all the refinements of a truly deluxe car,” and about 11,318 were produced. 

Highlights 

• Sporty steel Deluxe Roadster body by Briggs Manufacturing Company 

• Folding convertible top with matching side curtains 

• Brown vinyl upholstery 

• 201 cu-in inline-four engine rated at 40 hp  

• Three-speed floor-shift manual transmission 

• Rumble seat 

Features 

• Luggage rack with trunk 

• Cowl-mounted running lights  

• Wire spoke wheels mounted with wide whitewall tires  

• Spartan horn  

• Dual side-mounted spares 

Known Imperfections 

• This 1930 Ford Model A 40-B Deluxe Roadster is presented as an older restoration and is said to be free from any substantial imperfections 

Included 

• Car cover 

• Receipts 

• Assorted spare parts 

Ownership History

The consignor of this 1930 Ford Model A 40-B Deluxe Roadster states, “Matching numbers car. Also have the original California license plates that were on the car when brand new. It took first place at a Model A national car show in 2007 in Oregon.”