Highlights

Rare example of a barrel-nosed 15cwt panel van
3,622cc V8 powerplant with 3-speed manual transmission
Highly original condition
In current ownership since 2015

The Appeal

Based upon their reputable 'BB' Chassis, Ford's UK Commercial arm brought out the barrel-nosed van for the 1938 model year only. The commercial side of Ford's European business was always substantially slower to develop than its passenger car business, thanks in no small part to the simple, utilitarian features of trucks and tractors aiding easy maintenance.

The Model 81C was the official designation for this single year of 15cwt trucks. They were handsome, they were capable, and of course, they carried the V8 powerplant that had proven so capable in the USA's hot rod scene. At first glance, it's a distinctly British design - those somewhat benign looks and curves do little to betray its industrial nature. But a load-loader it is - look at that high rear suspension!

These vans are exceptionally rare thanks to production ceasing on the outbreak of the war, and many of them ended up coming a-cropper during the conflict, or simply got run down to the scrapyard. As a result, this is an exceptionally rare commercial, and we expect will garner plenty of interest.

The History and Paperwork

Chassis No. LVL0357-582-79
Built in 1938 in Dagenham
Used by the Civil Defence Dept on the Isle of Wight as radio van between 1938 and 1953
Arrived on British soil 'proper' in 1979, according to the DVLA
Subject to a restoration at some stage mid-life
Previously part of a classic car collection
Sold at Brooklands Museum, 7th March 2015
In current ownership since
Kept in dry storage
Indicates 43,605 miles on a five-figure odometer
Sadly we're not aware of any paperwork provided with the vehicle outside of the V5c and a previous auction listing
MOT exempt and last tested in 2008

The Condition

Impressive barrel-fronted aesthetic
Bright red livery with black arches
Some patina to the paintwork - largely swirling and scratching
Chromework carries some texturing and patina, commensurate with age
Wheels have lost a little colour on the branding but are otherwise very sharply presented
Underside is in very good order for the vehicle's age, with no obvious corrosion
Internally, the van is carrying some patina
Wooden-boarded bay is in good overall order with some paint and varnish loss
Headlining is clean and well-presented
Seats have been recovered and are free of rips and tears
Dashboard carries some patina and texturing, but all instruments are legible
Some paint loss on the doors
Carpets / floor mats are looking rather tired, including the glove box lining

The Mechanics

3,622cc V8 powerplant, engine No. R-631980P
3-speed manual transmission
Engine bay looks in fine order
We understand the van to be highly standard
We've no reports of any mechanical issues
We can is reportedly starting and running exactly as you'd expect

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.

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✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection

or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it’s worth checking beforehand.. If requested, we may refer you to a third-party shipping company who can help. For more details and to speak to the team, email [email protected]