This 1936 Ford 3 Window Coupe is a world-class, all-steel custom that stands as a benchmark for craftsmanship, proportion, and execution. Built to compete at the highest level and refined to a standard few cars ever reach, it has earned its reputation the hard way: by winning. Showing the results of countless hours of skilled fabrication and finishing, this coupe has claimed NZNRA Street Rod of the Year, captured Best Paint, and won multiple Best of Show honors at events entered...cementing its place among the most recognized custom builds to come out of New Zealand.
The foundation begins with a genuine all-steel 3 Window body, extensively reworked by Cascade Auto Finish of Auckland, New Zealand, under the direction of John Lisle. The body was carefully reshaped using traditional leaded seams and professional metal finishing, then refined with a precise 3" chopped top that dramatically lowers the profile. A one-piece front guard, shaved boots, lowered headlights, deleted bumpers, a custom bull nose, and shaved side panels all work together to fine-tune the design while preserving the coupe's unmistakable 1936 identity. A one-off stainless steel grille hand-made by Don Stark Metal Art in Idaho provides a focal point that is subtle and unmistakably bespoke. The rear is finished with frenched taillights, later upgraded to Juliano's LED units with a custom third brake light. The finish is nothing short of exceptional. The body is sprayed in House of Kolor Brandywine Pearl, a notoriously unforgiving color that highlights every contour and panel transition. Finished to 3000-grit and cleared twice, the paint delivers deep clarity and consistent reflections across every surface.
Power comes from an Edelbrock 350ci Chevrolet crate engine rated at 320 horsepower, selected for its reliability, smooth power delivery, and ease of ownership. The engine bay has been refreshed and fully detailed, featuring a new Edelbrock chrome carburetor and intake manifold, Billet Specialties valve covers with a matching air cleaner, Cap's Hugger headers, and numerous additional dress-up components. Everything is neatly routed and finished, with color-matched inner panels and a clean presentation designed to be shown. Power is delivered through a TH350 3-speed automatic transmission and into a Ford 9" rear axle with 3.55 gearing and a limited-slip differential, providing comfortable cruising and confident acceleration. Underneath, the coupe is built around a TCI Pro-Air chassis setup with mini tubs . The suspension features front independent suspension and a rear four-link, complemented by sway bars at both ends. Ride height is controlled via RideTech ShockWave air suspension. Stopping power comes from Wilwood four-wheel power disc brakes with 12" rotors, while power steering makes the car easy to maneuver. And a custom 2.5" exhaust system is routed through the frame.
The interior continues the car's refined, Deco-inspired theme and reflects the same level of intention found in the exterior and chassis. Custom Deco design leather upholstery by Stiches of Auckland, New Zealand covers the bench seat and door panels, with symmetrical vertical ribbing and a restrained design that suits the era perfectly. The dash combines a 1936 upper section grafted to a 1932 lower, housing Classic Instruments gauges that are period-appropriate. A Banjo-style Ford steering wheel is paired with an Ididit tilt steering column, while climate control is handled by modern air conditioning and heat via a Vintage Air system. Modern conveniences are integrated discreetly. A Sony stereo with SiriusXM, Bluetooth, and CD capability feeds four Infinity speakers and a subwoofer, all hidden cleanly within the cabin and trunk areas.
This 1936 Ford 3 Window Coupe is not simply an award winner. It is a fully realized custom built with an uncompromising standard of quality. Its international pedigree, show-proven success, refined road manners, and thoughtful modern upgrades come together in a traditional custom defined by intention, balance, and exceptional execution.
Key Highlights
1936 Ford 3 Window Coupe All-steel body
2012 NZNRA Street Rod of the Year
Built by Cascade Auto Finish, Auckland, New Zealand
3" chopped top
Hand-made stainless grill by Don Stark Metal Art
House of Kolor Brandywine Pearl (cleared twice)
350ci Chevorlet crate V8 (320hp)
Edelbrock polished aluminum heads, intake, and 4bbl carb
TH350 3-speed automatic transmission
TCI Pro-Air chassis with mini tubs
Wilwood four-wheel power disc brakes
Power steering
Modern air conditioning
Independent front suspension
Four-link rear suspension
RideTech air suspension
Deco design leather upholstery by Stiches, Auckland, NZ
Power windows
Sony AM/FM/CD receiver with Bluetooth and SiriusXM capability
Modern Infinity speakers with subwoofer
