Photo: Hemmings.com

Today’s catch comes from a listing on Hemmings Classifieds: a swell little mint green 1936 Ford coupe complete with that classic rumble seat in the back, perfect for storing the picnic basket and a kid or two. And while it may appear to be a straight-laced stocker at first glance, there’s more than meets the eye to this Blue Oval car from Hemet, California.

Much of the car has been kept in great condition on the outside, with only some minor wear and tear around the rumble seat’s opening. The space in the roof has had the metal and vinyl replaced “at some point,” says the owner. A non-pictured 36-inch Ford luggage rack is included in the purchase.

Powering this coupe is a Mercury flathead V-8 from the 1950/51 model years, bored .060″ over and equipped with a fine Scat crankshaft. Last summer, the engine went through a bit of an overhaul as it was given a new intake manifold, Stromberg 97 carburetors, Offenhauser heads, and Sanderson ceramic coated exhaust headers, as well as new wiring and hoses.

A gel cell battery adds to the resto-mod nature of the car. The owner still cares about how the car projects its authenticity, however, so the prewar hydraulic brakes and shocks have stayed behind.

The owner gave the Ford a new flywheel, clutch disc, pressure plate, pilot bearing, and throwout bearing under his stewardship, and replaced the rear main seal and oil gasket pan as well. It’s safe to say this car combines the best of the old with the best of the new.

Inside the car, the original style mohair is in good condition, without any rips or sagging. A stain on the headliner seems to be the worst of what’s visible, along with some discoloration on the rumble seat.

Some may argue the $32,000 price tag asks a bit too much for the bargain; the interior looks the worse for wear, and could become a bigger project that one would wish for. The owner says he’s willing to negotiate, though, so you may be able to talk him down to scoop up that perfect summer cruiser you’ve been after. Perhaps even get him to permit a trade for a lesser price. Feel free to express your sentiments in the comments below.