The Thames E38W was developed by Ford of Britain as part of its pre-war light commercial range and was marketed under the Thames name, which Ford used for trucks and vans sold in the UK and export markets. Introduced in 1938, the E38W was based on contemporary Ford passenger car mechanicals, making it relatively simple to service and well suited to tradesmen, municipal fleets, and small businesses. Production continued, with incremental updates, into the post-war years, ultimately ending in the late 1950s. These vehicles were widely used and often worked hard, which makes surviving examples, particularly early ones, increasingly scarce today.

This example has been owned by the seller since 2018 and was last running and driving in 2019. It has since been stored indoors as part of a collection of long-term projects. According to the seller, the engine will start with a jump box and fuel or ether introduced into the carburetor, and it runs well once fired. The vehicle was parked due to a leaking water pump noted during its last period of use, rather than any major mechanical failure. Overall condition is described by the seller as very good, with the body retaining its original form and character. There is a small area of rust behind the rear wheel on the driver’s side toward the back of the van, but the rest of the body presents as solid and complete. The design is notable for its compact proportions, rounded cab, and distinctive rear fenders that sweep rearward, giving the van a particularly appealing profile.

This is a left-hand-drive example, which is uncommon, as most Thames E38W panel vans were produced in right-hand drive configuration for the domestic British market. The vehicle is reported to be complete and has been driven in the past by the seller. It was originally intended to be used as a display vehicle or light-duty parts runner, a role to which it would still be well suited following recommissioning. The van is being sold in non-operational condition, as it currently sits, to make room for other projects. The seller notes that if returned to running and driving condition, it would likely be prepared for a public auction sale. The vehicle has a title, and the VIN matches the original Ford identification tag located on the firewall. As presented, this 1939 Thames E38W Panel Van offers an honest and largely unmodified example of an early Ford commercial vehicle, with appealing originality, uncommon left-hand-drive configuration, and clear potential for sympathetic restoration or mechanical recommissioning. Find it for sale at $9,900 here in Salem, OR.