Ford Vedette
The American-styled fastback that brought V8 power to post-war France.
- Power
- 60 bhp
- Top speed
- 81 mph
- Est. value
- $8k–$16k
About the Ford Vedette
Introduced at the 1948 Paris Motor Show, the Ford Vedette was the first new post-war model from Ford SAF, designed in Detroit to resemble contemporary Mercury models. It was uniquely positioned as the only French car of its era to feature a V8 engine, the 2.2-litre 'Aquillon' flathead, though its modest output struggled with the car's substantial weight. The Vedette is historically significant for debuting the MacPherson strut front suspension, a revolutionary design that would become a global industry standard. Despite its American flair and advanced suspension, production was hampered by post-war material shortages and quality issues, leading Ford to sell its French operations to Simca in 1954.
Ford Vedette specs
The Ford Vedette produces 60 bhp (45 kW) and 123 Nm (91 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 81 mph (130 km/h).
| Make | Ford |
|---|---|
| Model | Vedette |
| Trim | V8 |
| Years | 1948–1954 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | France |
| Engine | 2.2-litre sidevalve V8 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,158 cc (2.2 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 60 bhp (45 kW) at 4,600 rpm |
| Torque | 123 Nm (91 lb-ft) |
| Top speed | 81 mph (130 km/h) |
| Transmission | 3-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,180 kg (2,601 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 51 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Ford Vedette worth?
A typical Ford Vedette is estimated to be worth $7,500 – $16,000 (about £5,600 – £12,000).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Ford Vedette rarity in CarSpot
The Ford Vedette is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 25 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Ford Vedette fun facts
- The Vedette was the first production car to feature MacPherson strut front suspension, developed by Ford engineer Earle S. MacPherson.
- Though built in France, the car was originally intended to be a 'Light Ford' for the American market before the project was transferred to Ford SAF.
- Early models featured 'suicide' rear doors, a common design trait for luxury cars of the 1940s that was later phased out in a 1952 facelift.
