Zoom Classic Cars presents this 1932 Ford HEMI Hot Rod Roadster
featuring a 330 cubic inch DeSoto HEMI V8, Tremec 5-Speed with
Overdrive and a Brookville Steel Body. This striking 1932 Ford Hot
Rod Roadster is the culmination of a seven-year parts-gathering
journey and a carefully executed custom build by its owner.
Combining iconic early Ford styling, legendary HEMI power, and a
thoughtfully engineered chassis, this roadster delivers the
distinctive character and driving excitement that make traditional
hot rods so desirable. The build began with a boxed frame and steel
reproduction body sourced from Brookville Roadsters, a respected
name in the hot rod community. Model A front and rear crossmembers
provide a lower stance and clearance for the rear quick-change
differential cover, while a 1941 Ford center frame section
accommodates the transmission and other drivetrain components. The
owner performed the custom fabrication required to mount the
engine, transmission, and axles. The steel body retains desirable
traditional details, including the cowl vent, standard doors with
external hinges, and reproduction 1932 Ford door and trunk handles.
Finished in a color closely resembling commercial Ford Rubellite
Red, the paint remains in excellent overall condition, with only a
few minor imperfections as shown. Pinstriping and tasteful silver
leafed lettering over the trunk handle, One Piece at a Time, were
applied by Royce Mason. The roadster's proportions are enhanced by
a chopped windshield frame and an easily removable black canvas Bop
Top, giving the car versatility while preserving its traditional
hot rod character. An unfinished engine cover in primer, secured
with leather straps, can add another authentic period-inspired
detail if desired. Power comes from a rebuilt 1956 DeSoto
330-cubic-inch HEMI V8. Machine work was performed by Dana Hard of
Custom Automotive Machine in Massachusetts, with final engine
assembly completed by the owner. The engine is equipped with a rare
DeSoto Adventurer dual quad manifold filled with a pair of modern
500 CFM carburetors, combining classic HEMI architecture with
updated induction. The roadster was originally fitted with a 1939
Ford three-speed manual transmission configured for open-drive use.
In 2011, the transmission was upgraded to a Tremec five-speed
manual with overdrive, along with a hydraulic throw-out bearing for
the clutch.The drivetrain is installed in a custom-fabricated
chassis, with the owner performing the necessary fabrication to
accommodate the HEMI engine, transmission, and axles. The result
combines traditional Ford running gear with a more modern
five-speed transmission for added flexibility on the road. Most of
the running gear, including the brakes, axle tubes, and axles, is
sourced from 1940s Ford components. A new quick-change rear
differential completes the rear driveline. Up front, a polished
stainless-steel axle and radius rods from Pete & Jakes provide
traditional hot rod styling, while rear ladder bars locate and
secure the rear axle. Steering combines an early Ford V8 pickup
steering column and Ford banjo steering wheel with a Unisteer
rack-and-pinion steering system. The chassis reflects a combination
of traditional Ford components and owner-performed fabrication,
tailored to accommodate the DeSoto HEMI and upgraded Tremec
drivetrain while maintaining the roadster's purposeful stance and
classic hot rod character. The cockpit features a 1932 Ford-style
faux wood-grained dashboard fitted with electric gauges, blending
vintage appearance with modern instrumentation. The bench seat,
sourced from a Dodge Caravan second row, has been professionally
reupholstered in black vinyl by a local upholsterer. The hinged
seat tilts forward to provide convenient access to the fuse panel,
master cutoff switch, and Classic Industries Sky & Drive GPS
module. The result is a functional, straightforward interior that
retains the traditional roadster atmosphere while incorporating
practical modern conveniences. The roadster rides on bias-ply
Firestone tires with inner tubes, mounted on painted steel rims
with chrome trim rings and Ford hubcaps from Vintique. This
traditional wheel-and-tire combination complements the car's
overall styling. The undercarriage is exceptionally clean and
solid, with the custom chassis, drivetrain installation, and
mechanical components presenting well. The exhaust system runs from
the HEMI engine to the outlets and features a silver
high-temperature coating. The trunk compartment is very clean and
houses the spare front tire, fuel tank, and battery compartment.
Traditional 1932 Ford roadsters remain among the most iconic
platforms in American hot rodding, and this custom example brings
together an appealing combination of classic styling, a rebuilt
DeSoto HEMI, custom chassis fabrication, and a Tremec five-speed
overdrive transmission. Built over time by an owner who carefully
gathered components and carried out much of the assembly and
fabrication himself, this roadster reflects a clear vision and an
appreciation for quality parts. The chopped windshield, removable
black canvas top, quick-change rear differential, banjo steering
wheel, and distinctive HEMI powerplant give it a strong traditional
hot rod identity. This is a well-built Ford roadster with quality
components, a great stance, and a HEMI heart. An exciting car to
drive and a distinctive addition to any hot rod collection, it is
ready for its next owner to get behind the wheel and enjoy. Stored
in MA with Clean Title in the Owner's name.Call Jeff for additional
information or to schedule a viewing. Thanks for Looking.
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