From the time they first gained popularity in the 1940's as the foundation for a new generation of street rods, the Ford Highboys (also referred to as the Deuce Coupe in reference to the "2" in 1932) became a rolling exemplification of what the pursuit was all about - take an already light vehicle and make it even lighter, then drop in a powerful engine capable of delivering "knock you back in your seat" performance and drop the pedal. But this 1932 Ford Highboy Roadster is more than that. This is an exceedingly well-built car, nostalgia-inducing for sure, but also exhibiting a great attention to detail that sets it apart, no matter the company it's in.
The exteriors of many street rods are often about visual pyrotechnics and we're certainly fans of well-executed creativity, but it's also nice to see a more understated, well-planned approach, such as what's on display here, especially considering the quality that's gone into it. That rich, deep shade you see adorning the renowned Kilbourne fiberglass body is known as Washington Blue and it's a great choice, with the matching heads and valve covers inside the open engine compartment, as well as the outer portions of the rims, making the paint scheme even more effective. The much sought-after light weight of the fiberglass body doesn't come at the expense of strength either - Kilbourne reinforces its work with square steel tubing, so it's sturdy, as well. The ornate front grilles on these '32s are definitely a focal point and the one here is a great specimen - it's an impressive expanse of chrome ribbing sitting under that signature Blue Oval badge on the hood.
Open one of the low-profile doors and you'll marvel at the workmanship on display with this interior. While custom interiors in vintage roadsters like this aren't terribly rare, you just don't come across one showing this level of quality very often. The tuck and roll saddle tan upholstery across the bench seat is not only well-fitted, but it also supports a very sharp, lightly distressed look and, in contrast to so many of its counterparts, is also well-padded and contoured for comfort. The same pattern lines the insides of the doors and the kick panels - still more well-executed details on a car full of them. Just beyond the Limeworks custom steering column and wheel, a set of white-faced Moon gauges resides inside a textured cluster on the dash, providing a great contrast to the surrounding blue metal. The trunk area in back will definitely capture your attention. Detailed to match the interior of the car, it has matching tan carpeting and a custom accessory box inside where the battery lies, a very nice touch!
Lest we not forget that street rodding is still very much about power, there's a Chevy 350 cubic inch V8 on full display within the open-sided engine compartment. Topped with an Edelbrock intake and carb, it's running great and sounding awesome - emitting a dominating exhaust note that stops well short of being "too much." This potent drivetrain sits on a foundation that's more than up to the task of handling all that power - a Pete and Jake's steel chassis also equipped with a Super Bell front end, coilover suspension and front disc brakes. This very well-built roadster sits on a set of Vintique wheels, and sports a pair of 5.50-16 front and massive 8.90-16 Firestone tires in back.
Looking for an open-air roadster with smile inducing performance and a look both inside and out that exudes quality? You have to check out this 1932 Ford Highboy Roadster. Call today!