Flathead engines, with their simple valves-in-block design, powered some of the most iconic cars from the 1930s to 1950s. Today, they’re seeing a revival among collectors who value their raw charm, easy maintenance, and hot-rod potential. From Ford’s groundbreaking V8s to Cadillac’s refined powerplants, these engines defined an era. Here are ten flathead-powered cars—complete with specs and details—that show why they’re back in the spotlight, appealing to those who know their classics.

1932 Ford Model 18

The 1932 Ford Model 18 introduced the 221-cubic-inch flathead V8, making 65 hp with a 5.5:1 compression ratio. Its 3.0625-inch bore and 3.75-inch stroke delivered 144 lb-ft of torque, hitting ~70 mph, per Motor Trend. A three-speed manual kept it simple.

Weighing ~2,400 pounds, it was a hot-rod favorite due to its lightweight body and tunable engine. The spartan interior had cloth seats and a basic dash with a single gauge. Its affordability and modding potential keep it a staple at vintage rallies today.

1935 Ford Model 48

The 1935 Ford Model 48’s 221-cubic-inch flathead V8 bumped output to 85 hp with a 6.3:1 compression ratio, thanks to a two-barrel Stromberg carb. Torque hit 144 lb-ft, with a top speed of ~75 mph. The 112-inch wheelbase and three-speed manual stayed smooth.

At ~2,600 pounds, it handled better than earlier models. The interior added a second gauge and optional radio, with cloth upholstery. Restorers love its refined block casting and hot-rod legacy, making it a frequent sight at car shows.

1939 Mercury Model 99A

Mercury’s 1939 Model 99A used a 239.4-cubic-inch flathead V8, producing 95 hp at 6.3:1 compression. Its 3.1875-inch stroke gave 155 lb-ft of torque, reaching ~80 mph. A three-speed manual and 116-inch wheelbase offered decent cruising, per Conceptcarz.

Weighing ~3,000 pounds, it felt upscale with chrome trim. The interior had plush cloth seats, a two-tone dash, and optional heater. Its larger engine and smoother ride draw collectors seeking a step above Ford’s base models, with strong auction demand.

1941 Cadillac Series 62

The 1941 Cadillac Series 62’s 346-cubic-inch flathead V8 made 150 hp and 278 lb-ft at 1,700 rpm, hitting ~90–95 mph. Its 126-inch wheelbase and optional $125 Hydra-Matic automatic smoothed the 4,100-pound ride, per Hagerty.

The cabin featured broadcloth or leather benches, a symmetrical dash with round gauges, and optional radio ($65). With front coils and rear leaf springs, it cruised effortlessly. Its refined engineering and elegant styling make it a collector favorite for pre-war luxury, often fetching $20,000–$50,000.

1948 Ford F-1 Pickup

The 1948 Ford F-1 used a 239.4-cubic-inch flathead V8, delivering 100 hp and 180 lb-ft of torque at 6.8:1 compression. With a three-speed manual and 114-inch wheelbase, it reached ~75 mph. Its 3,200-pound frame was rugged, per Hemmings.

The interior had a simple bench seat, single gauge, and optional heater. Its durability and easy-to-service engine make it a hot-rod base today. Restored F-1s, valued at $25,000–$45,000, shine at shows for their workhorse charm and modding potential.

1949 Lincoln Cosmopolitan

Lincoln’s 1949 Cosmopolitan ran a 336.7-cubic-inch flathead V8, producing 152 hp and 265 lb-ft of torque. Its 3.5-inch bore and 4.38-inch stroke, paired with a three-speed manual or Hydra-Matic, hit ~90 mph on a 125-inch wheelbase, per Mac’s Motor City.

At ~4,300 pounds, it was plush with leather seats, a two-tone dash, and optional power windows. Its big V8 and luxury appeal draw collectors, with values at $30,000–$60,000. The Cosmopolitan’s rarity fuels its comeback in high-end restorations.

1940 Cadillac Series 90 V-16

The 1940 Cadillac Series 90’s 431-cubic-inch flathead V16 produced 185 hp and ~330 lb-ft of torque, reaching ~100 mph. Its 141-inch wheelbase and three-speed manual or Hydra-Matic handled the 4,900-pound chassis, per Conceptcarz.

The opulent interior had leather upholstery, walnut trim, and a deluxe radio. Only 138 were built, making it ultra-rare. Collectors chase its smooth power and prestige, with auction prices often exceeding $100,000. Its engineering and exclusivity keep it a standout at concours events.

1938 Ford V8-60 Midget Racer

The 1938 Ford V8-60, a 136-cubic-inch flathead V8, made 60 hp and ~94 lb-ft of torque, ideal for midget racers. Weighing ~800 pounds, it hit ~90 mph with a three-speed manual, per ClassicCars.com. Its compact size fit tight cockpits.

The bare interior had a single seat and minimal gauges. Its lightweight and tunable engine make it a vintage racing favorite today, with restored examples valued at $15,000–$30,000. The V8-60’s simplicity drives its appeal for period-correct builds.

1941 Willys Jeep MB

The 1941 Willys Jeep MB used a 134.2-cubic-inch flathead inline-four, producing 60 hp and 105 lb-ft of torque. Its 80-inch wheelbase and three-speed manual hit ~65 mph, per Hagerty. The 2,200-pound Jeep was a WWII workhorse.

The spartan interior had canvas seats and a basic dash. Its flathead’s reliability and off-road prowess make it a collector’s choice, valued at $20,000–$40,000. Restorers prize its simplicity and historical significance, fueling demand at military vehicle shows.

1950 Mercury Eight

The 1950 Mercury Eight’s 255.4-cubic-inch flathead V8 made 112 hp and 200 lb-ft of torque at 6.8:1 compression. With a three-speed manual or optional overdrive, it reached ~85 mph on a 118-inch wheelbase, per Hemmings.

Its curvy body and two-tone cloth interior, with optional radio and heater, felt upscale. Weighing ~3,400 pounds, it balanced style and power. Valued at $25,000–$50,000, its hot-rod heritage and smooth V8 keep it popular among collectors restoring classic Mercurys.