[supereal]

My '47 convertible is black with a clear coat. It looks very fine, and has the advantage of protecting the finish from exposure. Ford used lacquer in very early production because it was quick drying, and resisted fuel spills, but was also quite flammable. Later finishes were enamel, such an acrylic. Now, due to emphasis on air quality, water based paint is common. It has the drawback of usually producing "orange peel" results, even in luxury cars.