Elite Dealer

1932 Ford Hot Rod

Weaverville, California

$149,995

1932 Ford Hot Rod

Vehicle Details

Make

Ford

Model

Hot Rod

Year

1932

Mileage

100 miles

Body Type

Other

Description

1932 Ford Roadster
• Brookville All-Steel Body
• Supercharged 383 V8
• Kugel Independent Suspension
• Exceptional Custom Build One-Owner Custom Build | Extensive Documentation | Less Than 100 Miles Since Completion | 517 HP Engine Specification Some automobiles are restored. Others are modified. And then there are automobiles that represent the culmination of one individual's vision, years of dedication, and an unwavering commitment to craftsmanship.

This remarkable 1932 Ford Roadster belongs in that final category. Offered by Platt Motors, this exceptional all-steel Brookville Roadster is the product of a highly personalized construction project undertaken by longtime automotive enthusiast Warren Hansen. Conceived as a tribute to traditional American hot rodding while incorporating sophisticated modern engineering, this vehicle represents a remarkable collaboration between its owner and several accomplished craftsmen.

With fewer than 100 miles reported since completion, over 200 construction photographs, detailed mechanical records, and an extraordinary level of finishing throughout, this Roadster presents a special opportunity for the discerning collector. The Inspiration and Construction The inspiration for this project came from Warren's brother, who owned a 1932 Ford three-window coupe powered by an Oldsmobile 302 V8. That automobile helped inspire Warren to create his own interpretation of one of America's most celebrated hot rods.

Rather than purchasing an existing completed vehicle, Warren elected to undertake an ambitious custom build from the ground up. The foundation began with a brand-new, all-steel Brookville Roadster body, personally acquired by Warren at the Los Angeles Roadster Show. Throughout the project, Warren remained actively involved in the design, fabrication, assembly, and countless decisions that ultimately shaped the finished automobile.

The project brought together several talented individuals: Bill Enderson: Technical consultation and project guidance. Dan Laughlin: Bodywork and paint. Steve White: Custom engine construction. Dave Tuttle: Fabrication and design.

Seann Kearney: Custom upholstery. Each contributed specialized expertise while Warren maintained personal oversight and participation throughout construction. The result is not simply a collection of aftermarket components but an individually conceived automobile reflecting its owner's vision and attention to detail.

Supercharged 383 Cubic-Inch Chevrolet V8 At the heart of this Roadster is a professionally constructed 383-cubic-inch Chevrolet small-block V8 assembled by Steve White. Beginning with a new GM four-bolt-main 350 engine block, the engine was developed into a 383-cubic-inch stroker featuring carefully selected performance components. Its most recognizable feature is the Weiand 177-cubic-inch Roots-style supercharger, selected in part for its traditional appearance reminiscent of the legendary GMC 4-71 blowers associated with early American hot rodding.

Documented engine specifications include: 383-cubic-inch Chevrolet V8 New GM four-bolt-main engine block 4.030-inch cylinder bore 3.750-inch crankshaft stroke 8.5:1 compression ratio Weiand 177 Roots-style supercharger Air Flow Research 195 Street cylinder heads 2.050-inch intake valves 1.600-inch exhaust valves Hydraulic roller camshaft 0.510-inch intake and exhaust valve lift Performance rotating assembly Custom-fabricated engine components 91-octane gasoline requirement The accompanying engine documentation includes detailed component specifications, cylinder-head airflow figures, camshaft specifications, performance calculations, and original engine-building invoices. The supplied engine performance calculations indicate a peak of 517 horsepower at 6,000 RPM and 501 lb-ft of torque at 4,500 RPM. These figures come from engine performance modeling documentation rather than a verified physical dynamometer test, an important distinction for serious collectors.

GM 700-R4 Automatic Transmission Power is transmitted through a GM 700-R4 four-speed automatic overdrive transmission built by RTS Transmission. The transmission combines the convenience of an automatic with the advantages of overdrive gearing, making it a thoughtful choice for a high-performance street rod. Supporting documentation includes information relating to the Lokar transmission kickdown system and related hardware.

Kugel Chassis and Independent Suspension Beneath the traditional 1932 Ford body lies a sophisticated, fully boxed Kugel chassis. Rather than utilizing the conventional solid-axle arrangement found beneath many traditional hot rods, this Roadster incorporates independent suspension at both ends. The chassis features: Fully boxed Kugel frame Kugel independent front suspension Kugel independent rear suspension Adjustable coilover suspension Four-wheel disc brakes Inboard-mounted rear disc brakes Extensively polished suspension components Custom fabrication and detailed chassis finishing The independent rear suspension is particularly noteworthy, incorporating an elegantly engineered arrangement of suspension arms, coilovers, and inboard disc brakes.

The front suspension receives equally impressive attention, with beautifully finished control arms, exposed coilovers, and polished components. Photographs taken beneath the automobile reveal an extraordinary level of detail, extending to the painted floor panels, suspension mounting points, structural components, and polished hardware. This is an automobile that deserves to be viewed from underneath as well as above.

Exterior and Paintwork The all-steel Brookville Roadster body was professionally finished by Dan Laughlin. Warren selected a color from the 2012 Lincoln paint palette, producing a sophisticated finish that complements the Roadster's traditional styling and extensive brightwork. The body retains the unmistakable proportions that made the 1932 Ford one of the most influential automobiles in American hot rod history.

Its exposed suspension components, traditional Roadster silhouette, and supercharged engine create a compelling combination of classic appearance and modern mechanical engineering. The seller has disclosed some paint damage, which will be documented for prospective buyers. Interior and Custom Upholstery The interior was completed by Seann Kearney, complementing the exterior presentation and overall character of the build.

Like the rest of the automobile, the interior reflects an emphasis on thoughtful design and craftsmanship rather than unnecessary ornamentation. Custom electrical work beneath the dashboard represents another example of the attention devoted to components and systems that are not immediately apparent. Extensive Build Documentation One of the most compelling aspects of this Roadster is the accompanying documentation.

Warren carefully preserved an extensive collection of construction photographs, mechanical specifications, invoices, parts records, and installation literature. The collection includes more than 200 detailed build photographs illustrating various stages of the vehicle's construction. Documentation includes: Photographs of the body and chassis construction Engine specifications and component records Engine-building invoices Cylinder-head airflow data Camshaft specifications Engine performance modeling reports and graphs Transmission component literature Suspension and undercarriage photographs Additional installation and technical documentation For collectors who appreciate understanding not only what was built but how it was constructed, these records add meaningful depth to the vehicle's history.

Ownership, Mileage, and Condition This Roadster represents a single individual's vision from its initial conception through completion. Warren has remained the owner throughout the project, personally participating in its construction and overseeing the work of the various craftsmen involved. According to the owner, the automobile has accumulated fewer than 100 miles since completion.

It has not yet been exhibited at major automotive shows or featured in publications, leaving opportunities for its next caretaker to introduce the vehicle to the broader hot rod community. The automobile is represented as a 1932 Ford and is currently titled as such. As with any individually constructed automobile, prospective buyers are encouraged to review the documentation, inspect the vehicle, and satisfy themselves regarding its specifications and condition.

A Personal Achievement When asked what he was most proud of after the years of planning, effort, and personal involvement, Warren offered a simple response: – It's the best project I've ever undertaken and it is a joy to look at." That statement perhaps captures the spirit of this Roadster better than any list of specifications. This was not an automobile assembled for quick resale. It was built to fulfill a personal ambition, bringing together traditional styling, thoughtful engineering, talented craftsmen, and the owner's own considerable involvement.

Offered by Platt Motors Platt Motors is proud to represent this extraordinary 1932 Ford Roadster. Having represented classic and collector automobiles for many years, we recognize that certain vehicles stand apart not simply because of their appearance or mechanical specifications, but because of the individuals, dedication, and craftsmanship behind their creation. We believe this Roadster is among the most significant custom-built automobiles we have had the privilege of representing.

Interested collectors are invited to contact Platt Motors for additional information, photographs, documentation, and inspection arrangements. Nationwide enclosed transportation can be arranged.

Classic Ford Coupe Buyer's Guide

Full guide
J
Jim Vasquez
Hot Rods
1932–1948
~5 min read
Updated Apr 2026
Definitive buyer's guide for classic Ford Coupe 1932-1948. Pre-war and post-war coupe variants, hot rod platform fundamentals, frame and body inspection, current pricing.
This guide covers
✓ 10-point inspection checklist
✓ Common issues & what to avoid
✓ In-person inspection guide
✓ Market pricing by year & condition
✓ 5 FAQs answered
✓ History & fun facts

Ford Hot Rod Market Overview

Based on 26 Ford Hot Rod listings currently on ClassicCarsArena.com

26
Listed Now
$45,792
Avg. Asking Price
1915–1950
Year Range
Price Position on Our Site - Above Average
This car: $149,995
Low: $12,795 High: $149,995
Transmission Distribution
Automatic 69%
Manual 23%
Condition Distribution
Excellent 4%
Good 4%
Data from ClassicCarsArena.com listings Browse all 26 listings →
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Classic Ford Coupe Buyer's Guide

The Ford Coupe, particularly the iconic 1932-1934 cars and the post-war 1946-1948 cars, represents the foundational platform of American hot rodding. The 1932 Ford with its flathead V8 launched a tradition that defined American performance culture for the next ninety years, and the 1933-1934 cars refined the formula. Period-correct flathead V8 power, chopped tops, channeled bodies, and traditional kustom kulture aesthetics define the genre. Whether you're hunting an original-condition Deuce coupe for restoration or a chopped-and-channeled period-correct hot rod from a recognized builder, the Ford coupe market is one of the most active and most actively-judged segments in the entire American collector hobby. The Goodguys circuit, the Grand National Roadster Show, and SEMA Battle of the Builders all maintain build-quality standards that separate the legitimate traditional builds from the hobby work.

What to Check Before Buying

✓
Verify body style code on firewall dataplate , Three-window vs Five-window vs Standard Coupe distinction is critical. Different collector trajectories.
✓
Inspect frame at body mount points , Pre-war frames rust at body mount cross-members. Probe with screwdriver from underneath.
✓
Probe wood inner body framing on pre-1939 cars , Pre-1939 Ford bodies have wood inner framing. Wood rot = $5,000-$15,000 specialist coachbuilding repair.
✓
Examine running boards and fender attachment , Running boards rust where they meet body. Fender attachment points are universal rust zones.
✓
Check rumble seat (if applicable) for rust , Rumble seat coupes have additional rust concerns at rear deck. Lift rumble seat for inspection.
✓
Verify flathead V8 vs OHV V8 if applicable , Original 1932-1953 Ford coupes used flathead V8. Hot rods often have post-1954 OHV V8 swaps.
✓
For Deuce coupes (1932), demand specialist authentication , Original 1932 Ford coupes are blue-chip hot rod platform. Replicas and replicars exist.
✓
Inspect cowl seam at windshield base , Where windshield meets firewall. Water damage rots wood structure on pre-1939 cars.
✓
Check mechanical brake adjustment (pre-1939 cars) , Mechanical brakes on pre-1939 Fords require specialist adjustment. Convert-to-hydraulic common.
✓
For hot rod builds, verify build documentation , Recognized builder pedigree adds significant value vs hobby builds. Verify build documentation.

Common Issues

Ford coupe rust patterns vary by era. Pre-1939 cars (with wood inner body framing) face wood rot in addition to steel rust, water penetrating through failed weatherseals causes wood to rot from inside, compromising body structure. Common rust zones: lower body panels, running boards, fender attachment points, the rear cargo floor (if applicable), and the cowl seam where the windshield base meets the firewall. Post-1939 all-steel cars rust at the same locations but without wood structure concerns. Mechanically, the Ford flathead V8 (1932-1953) is among the most over-engineered engines of the pre-war era, bulletproof when serviced correctly. Common issues include burnt valves on cars run with poor ignition timing, worn camshaft lobes, oil leaks at the rear main seal, and worn timing gears. Many 1932-1948 Ford coupes have been converted from flathead to post-1954 OHV V8 power (Chevy small-block, Ford Y-block, etc.) for modern performance, verify the conversion was done properly with appropriate motor mounts and engine compartment fitment. The three-speed sliding-gear transmission (1932-1939) is robust but requires specialist knowledge to operate (no synchromesh on first gear, double-clutching required). The three-speed synchromesh transmission (1940-1948) is dramatically more pleasant for daily driving. Many traditional hot rod builds use post-war Ford or aftermarket transmissions for improved drivability. The mechanical brakes (1932-1938) are one of the most safety-critical Ford coupe maintenance items. Failed or poorly-adjusted mechanical brakes are the most common cause of pre-1939 Ford accidents. Brake adjustment requires specialist knowledge, many cars have been converted to hydraulic brakes (1939+ Ford hydraulic system or aftermarket disc brakes). From a concours judging perspective, original mechanical brakes are essential to authenticity on pre-1939 cars; from a daily-driver standpoint, hydraulic conversion is widely accepted. Electrical issues are universal: original 6-volt positive-ground systems on pre-1956 Fords require specific bulbs and components. Many cars have been converted to 12-volt negative-ground systems for modern reliability, verify the conversion was done properly.

What to Look For

Body style verification is the first stop. Three-Window Coupe vs Five-Window Coupe vs Standard Coupe distinctions drive significant value differences. Three-Window Coupes command 25-50% premium over equivalent Five-Window Coupes. Verify the body style code on the firewall dataplate and visual inspection of the side window count. For 1932 Deuce coupe claims, demand specialist authentication. Multiple companies have produced reproduction 1932-style fiberglass and steel bodies over the decades. Original 1932 Ford steel bodies have specific construction details, original Ford date stampings on body components, and chassis number locations that distinguish them from reproductions. Specialist authentication ($300-$800 typical) is mandatory for any Deuce coupe priced over $80,000. Wood structure inspection is critical for pre-1939 cars. Probe the wood inner body framing at the door pillars, windshield post, and rear body corners. Soft, spongy, or rotten wood requires specialist coachbuilding repair. From a concours judging perspective, original-condition wood structure is essential to authenticity; replacement wood reduces concours value. For hot rod builds, verify build documentation and builder pedigree. Period-correct traditional builds from recognized hot rod shops (Roadster Shop, So-Cal Speed Shop, Brizio Street Rods, Pete & Jakes, others) command significant premium over equivalent hobby work. Goodguys Trophy winners, GNRS America's Most Beautiful Roadster pedigree, and SEMA Battle of the Builders awards add documented value. For period-correct traditional hot rod builds, verify the engine and drivetrain specification. Period-correct flathead V8 power (with components like Stromberg 97 carburetors, Edelbrock cylinder heads, finned aluminum intake manifolds, and Mallory ignition) commands premium over modern V8 swaps for traditional-aesthetic cars. Modern resto-mod builds (LS swap, modern brakes, modern air ride suspension) appeal to a different market segment. Document the car. Photograph every panel, every chassis number stamping, every body construction detail (especially on Deuce coupes), every engine bay component, and every identifying tag. Build a comprehensive case file before purchase.

Price Guide

1932 Ford Three-Window Coupe: driver-quality original-condition cars run $80,000-$140,000+. Documented original-paint, low-mileage cars: $140,000-$220,000+. The 1932 Three-Window is the most desirable single Ford coupe ever produced. 1932 Ford Five-Window Coupe: driver-quality original-condition cars run $55,000-$95,000. Documented original cars: $95,000-$160,000. 1932 Ford Standard Coupe: driver-quality cars run $42,000-$75,000. The base Standard Coupe lacks the De Luxe trim of the desirable Three-Window and Five-Window variants. 1933-1934 Ford Coupes: driver-quality cars run $50,000-$95,000. The 1934 model year is the most refined of the era. Documented original cars: $80,000-$140,000+. 1935-1939 Ford Coupes: driver-quality cars run $32,000-$65,000. The 1939 model year is the most desirable of this era (last "early" Ford before 1940 redesign). Documented original cars: $50,000-$95,000. 1940-1948 Ford Coupes: driver-quality cars run $22,000-$48,000. Post-war 1946-1948 cars are slightly more affordable than pre-war 1940-1941 cars. Documented original cars: $35,000-$70,000. Traditional period-correct hot rod builds: prices vary dramatically by builder pedigree. Hobby-built traditional flathead-powered Deuce coupes: $55,000-$120,000. Recognized-builder traditional builds (Roadster Shop, So-Cal, Brizio): $150,000-$350,000+. GNRS America's Most Beautiful Roadster pedigree builds: $300,000-$1M+. Modern resto-mod builds (LS swap, modern brakes, air ride): $80,000-$220,000 typical, with high-end builds reaching $400,000+ for show-quality work. Project Ford coupes start around $20,000-$45,000 across most pre-war years. Stripped roller candidates: $10,000-$25,000.

Did You Know?

The 1932 Ford "Deuce" coupe became the foundational platform of American hot rodding due to three coincident factors: Ford produced enormous quantities (over 270,000 1932 Fords across all body styles), the Ford flathead V8 made hot-rodding economically accessible to ordinary buyers, and post-WWII returning veterans had cash to spend and mechanical skills from military service. The Three-Window Coupe in particular became the most photographed hot rod platform in American history, featured on hundreds of magazine covers from Hot Rod magazine's 1948 launch through modern automotive media. The "Deuce" nickname for the 1932 Ford derives from the 1930s American slang for "two", referring to the year 1932. The nickname became formalized in hot rod culture during the 1940s-1950s and remains in active use today. Other classic Ford-coupe-era nicknames include "Tudor" (two-door sedan, derived from "two-door"), "Fordor" (four-door sedan), and "Deluxe" (the high-trim 1932-1948 Ford trim level). The Ford flathead V8 powered American performance through the late 1940s and early 1950s, until Chevrolet's introduction of the small-block V8 in 1955 began to displace the flathead in hot rod culture. Period-correct traditional hot rod aesthetic (still actively maintained at events like the Hot Rod Reunion, Goodguys, and GNRS) requires flathead V8 power for authenticity. The flathead remains in active use in traditional hot rod culture and represents one of the most actively-collected pre-war American engine platforms.

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