1951 Ford Victoria Two-Door Hardtop

The 'shoebox' Fords of 1949–1951 were a major leap forward in styling for the Dearborn automaker, moving in a more modern direction that made them a genuine success with hot rodders and custom car builders alike — resulting in superbly restored examples such as this one being hard to come by today. One of the most expensive models Ford offered in 1951 at $1,925, this Victoria two-door Hardtop Coupe is a charming and lovely example restored to its original appearance. Known ownership begins in 1987 when well-known Ford enthusiast and active Early Ford V-8 Club member Howard Hemphill of Boon, Michigan purchased it from Victor James Morton of California, believed to be just the second owner.

Under his guidance it was restored to a high standard, winning Dearborn Awards at the 1998, 2003, and 2008 Grand National Meets, as well as various other awards. Hemphill eventually sold this Ford to David Koehler of Cincinnati, Ohio in 2010. Under his 14 years of ownership, it received a mechanical and aesthetic freshening, before winning another Dearborn Award in 2018 and most recently 2023.

The Grand Rapids Classics Auto Museum welcomed this Victoria in the fall of 2024. Features include the original shade of Alpine Blue and Silverstone Gray over a factory-correct LeBaron Bonney interior. Highly equipped with a radio, heater, back-up lights, driver's spotlight, and exhaust tip extension.

Under the hood lies a well-sorted code B 239 cubic-inch V-8 engine backed by a three-speed manual transmission with overdrive and an upgraded Mercury crankshaft.