1937 Ford Sedan Dares To Be Different With EcoBoost Power

In a world of coupes and roadsters with modern V8 swaps, it is quite refreshing to run across a car that dares to be different. Calvin Elston’s 1937 Ford Tudor Humpback is isn’t your normal sedan to begin with, but mix in all its modifications and this one is completely unique.

What really sets it apart, however, is its choice of powerplant — a 2.0-liter four cylinder EcoBoost engine. Our hats are off to Calvin for going out on the limb and taking a risk on building something special and the results are stunning.

Before we get to the heart and soul of this ’37 sedan, it first grabs your attention with its look. The exterior of the car is actually a wrap, which has become a big craze as of late. However, we would have never guessed this was one. Usually they incorporate crazy designs or sponsor logos, this one is simply just two colors — Oracal Gray and Dark Gloss Gray — giving the late-’30s hot rod a nice, traditional look, not to mention the durability. Drive it and use it, then just re-wrap it!

Believe it or not, that two-tone look is the result of a vinyl wrap. Carbon fiber accents and a set of black Enkei Wheels finish off its simple, yet sinister look.

Of course, the real star of the show in this sedan is the 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine under its hood. The gas turbo direct-injection four-cylinder engine is capable of producing 245 horsepower at 5,000 RPM. It is backed up by a 6R80 six-speed automatic transmission.

In all, this 1937 sedan features one of the most modern and innovative drivetrains you will find in any street rod. Making solid power, providing excellent economy, an delivering the cool factor checks all the boxes for a custom hot rod.

Not to be overshadowed by the rest of the car, the interior in Calvin’s sedan is quite impressive as well. There is a ton of attention to detail, including transmission controls by way of a GSM push-button shifter that is flush-mounted out of sight in the center console. A set of BMW 3 Series seats featuring 10-way adjustability keep the driver and passenger comfortable, while a rear seat is out of a BMW 8 series.

The car also features a full entertainment system, including a 7-inch screen up front; a rear-roof-mount, 14-inch screen with DVD player; and a Fosgate amp and speakers keeping the occupants entertained for miles down the road.

It doesn’t get more modern than a 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine under the hood and a six-speed automatic in the tunnel. The interior features all the modern things we have come to expect, including Vintage Air air conditioning.

You cannot have the looks, interior, and modern powertrain without a suspension to put the power to the ground. The 1937 Sedan is equipped with a Fatman Fabrications suspension as its base. Stopping is courtesy of Wilwood disc brakes front and rear. A set of black Enkei wheels — 15-inch up front and 17-inch out back — provide just the right stance to bring the entire package together.

The modern powertrain deliver its output to a decidedly traditional rearend. A traditional Ford 9-inch filled with 3.70 gears delivers the power to the rear tires, while a Unisteer electric power steering setup keeps the car pointed in the right direction.

In all, this is one of the most refreshing, unique, and just down right cool Ford street rods we have seen in a long while.

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About the author

Jeff Southard

Growing up with a dad who loved Corvettes, I was destined to be a gearhead from day one. Beyond that, my dad owned an auto parts business for over 25 years. There, I learned the automotive basics as a child, then began my professional career working there after high school. From Corvettes and Superbirds to Hemis and Cobra Jets, my dad has owned a little of everything over the years, so I've had my chance to get some quality seat time behind the wheel of some rare, unique, and sometimes, just odd automobiles. I have owned my share of toys, including over 20 Mustangs. I guess to make a long story short, if you look up "car crazy" you will probably find my photo listed pretty close to it!
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