1937 Ford Trucks

Despite the success of the V-8, Ford was sometimes criticized for not offering an "economy" engine. So in 1937, the company responded by adding a radically downsized V-8. Whereas the original (which continued) displaced 221 cubic inches and produced 85 horsepower, the new V-8 was sized at just 136 cid with a rating of 60 hp. While the difference in power between the two didn't look like much on paper, in reality, the smaller engine was just too small, and like the four-cylinder that preceded it, was soon dropped.

Ford also entered the transit-bus business in 1937 with the introduction of the forward-control chassis, which placed the engine off to one side so the driver could sit next to it rather than behind it. The company also began offering trucks in fancier Deluxe trim.

1937 Ford Sedan Delivery
1937 Ford Sedan Delivery

New styling that placed the headlights partially into the fenders graced the 1937 car line, as shown on this 1937 Ford Sedan Delivery. Harder to see is its split, vee'd windshield, another 1937 innovation.

1937 Ford Sedan Delivery interior
1937 Ford Sedan Delivery interior

The 1937 Ford Sedan Delivery interior enjoyed increased room, as the newly available rear-mounted spare tire opened up space in the cargo compartment.

1937 Ford truck
1937 Ford truck

All 1937 pickups had a V-8 engine -- along with the appropriate badge on the side of the hood -- but newly offered that year was a 136-cubic-inch 60-horsepower version that promised better fuel economy than its bigger 221-cid 85-hp brother.

1937 Ford truck
1937 Ford truck

Trucks got a fuller grille and vee'd windshield for 1937, but didn't look anywhere near as modern as the car line.

1937 Ford truck interior
1937 Ford truck interior

The interiors of 1937 Ford trucks didn't match the new styling on the Ford cars of the same year.

New Ford truck models made appearances in 1938. Learn about 1938 Ford trucks in the next section.

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