How much horsepower did the Ford have in 1937?
In 1937, Ford's passenger-car lineup largely relied on two engine configurations: the flathead V8 delivering about 85 horsepower, and a smaller inline-six producing around 60 horsepower. So, most Ford cars of that year were around 85 horsepower, with the base models closer to 60 horsepower.
Understanding those numbers requires looking at Ford’s engine options for the year, how horsepower was measured at the time, and what the power figures meant for everyday driving, pricing, and marketing.
Engine lineup in 1937
Ford's 1937-era lineup centered on two core powertrains for most passenger cars. The following details reflect commonly cited specifications from Ford literature and period road tests.
- Flathead V8 engine — about 85 horsepower; used across most standard passenger models.
- Inline-six engine — about 60 horsepower; offered for base models and certain economy-oriented configurations.
These two engines defined the driving experience for Ford’s 1937 lineup, with the V8 providing notably stronger acceleration and highway capability than the six-cylinder option.
How horsepower was understood in 1937
Horsepower in the late 1930s was largely a manufacturer-stated specification rather than a standardized measurement used across all tests. Ford’s 85 horsepower figure for the V8 represented the engine’s output under typical testing conditions of the era, and real-world performance depended on gearing, vehicle weight, and aerodynamics. The 60 horsepower inline-six served as a more economical alternative for buyers prioritizing lower cost and fuel efficiency.
Notes on interpretation
Because horsepower ratings varied with testing methods and catalog wording, historical sources may show slight differences in numbers. Nevertheless, the two-engine strategy—an 85 hp V8 for most cars and a 60 hp six for economy models—captures the core answer to the question of Ford’s horsepower in 1937.
Summary
For the 1937 Ford lineup, the prevailing powerplants delivered roughly 85 horsepower for the standard passenger cars equipped with the flathead V8, and about 60 horsepower for base six-cylinder models. This reflected Ford’s approach to offering strong mid-century performance while maintaining a lower-cost option for budget-conscious buyers. In context, these figures illustrate how horsepower shaped performance, pricing, and consumer choice in Ford’s 1937 market.
How much horsepower did the 1936 Ford have?
85 horsepower
Power came from Ford's reliable 221 cubic inch flathead V8, pushing out 85 horsepower—a respectable figure for the time.
What was the top speed of the Ford in 1937?
Performance-wise, the '37 Ford Pickup was no slouch for its time, with a top speed that could reach up to 60 mph—a respectable figure for a utilitarian vehicle of its size and era. Acceleration was measured not in seconds but in patience and anticipation.
How much horsepower did the 1937 Ford V8 have?
60-horsepower
Ford's affordable V-8 engine, introduced in 1932, proved so popular that the company stopped selling four-cylinder cars beginning with the 1935 model year. For 1937, Ford attracted economy-minded customers with a smaller 60-horsepower version of its V-8.
How much is a 1937 Ford worth?
Typically, you can expect to pay around $16,475 for a 1937 Ford Model 78 Standard in good condition with average spec. What is the highest selling price of a 1937 Ford Model 78 Standard? The highest selling price of a 1937 Ford Model 78 Standard at auction over the last three years was $82,500.
