Ford changed up its strategy for the 1938 model year, splitting the lineup between two models, both built on its long-running 112-inch wheelbase.

The more budget-oriented Standard Model 82A carried over the previous year’s styling, while the new DeLuxe Model 81A featured an updated design highlighted by a curved outline for the radiator grille and separate hood louvers.

Changes to the interior of DeLuxe models included a revised instrument panel with recessed control knobs and a radio speaker in the center.

Standard models could be ordered with either a 60-horsepower or 85-horsepower version of Ford’s familiar 221-cubin-inch L-head V-8 engine, while the DeLuxe came exclusively with the more powerful of the two.

The previous three-speed sliding-gear transmission persisted.

In terms of body styles, the Standard model was offered only as a Coupe, Tudor Sedan, or Fordor Sedan, while the DeLuxe came in three times as many variations, the second most popular of which was the Fordor Seda...