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Scott, sounds like a doable plan! Think about whether your search is for a 110/six or 120/eight, or for a 120/eight only. They are both fine and affordable cars, but the 2 extra cylinders , all else equal, cost more. As far as size, the longest "normal" models do not exceed 127" wb prewar.

Mal, it wouldn't surprise me if you're right!

There's not a lot of mechanical difference 39-41. The three years look different, and that's subjective on what turns your crank. 39 most traditional. 40 catwalks but still free standing headlights. 41 fared in headlights.

If you like sidemounts, they were optional on the 120's.
The shorter 110's can't fit them. Thw 39 sidemounts are , to me, awkward, but with "wheel-shaped" covers. The 40-41 use the same flat sided covers.

Factory two tones available and promoted on the 41's.

No bad choices here.

As far as wood, all the juniors had steel frames. In 1935 - 37, there is some wood in the bodies. 1938 saw all steel bodies with no fabric roof insert.

Thank you everyone. Most of the questions I have are answered. The one left is total length and width. I have found shipping dimensions which is what I am looking for to make sure I have room. Problem is that they are listed as 1700 or 1800 series and I haven't yet figured out the code.

Garrett,
My reasons for asking those questions were that the wooden frame is like a wood frame in a house. The metal is hung on it. My MGTD had a wood frame and it added greatly to the care and feeding of the beast. Column shift give more room in the front seat. Overdrive is not really necessary for me. I try and drive on road that were designed or built in the 40's. It does help with keeping the RPM lower which is a good thing on an L-head motor. The valves run a little hotter than in an overhead valve motor.

As for not being knowledgeable about working on your own car, take a chance. I bought my '40 Hudson to teach my 3 year old and 6 year old how cars work. Over the years they have learned. Now 6 and 9, they can read the manuals to me and understand oil changes, tune ups and listen for strange noises.

1700 is a 1939 six cylinder; 1701 is the smallest eight cylinder with the shorter wheelbase. In 1940 is was called a "120" - in 1939 it was called the "eight" but many people called it a 120. 1702 is the longer wheelbase, aka limo model, but still with the smaller 8 engine. The 1800 series are 1940 models.

1700 is a 1939 six cylinder; 1701 is the smallest eight cylinder with the shorter wheelbase. In 1940 is was called a "120" - in 1939 it was called the "eight" but many people called it a 120. 1702 is the longer wheelbase, aka limo model, but still with the smaller 8 engine. The 1800 series are 1940 models.

Garrett, look at this running prewar 1940 110 for $9k.
http://sfbay.craigslist.org/eby/cto/5495431069.html

Wow, that is a gem! Especially for that price, and a California car? Some wax and you're in car shows! (I am assuming the interior is fair as well)