1931 Ford Highboy Roadster

Description

This 1931 Ford Highboy Roadster gets us particularly excited because it's a real-deal Henry Ford steel roadster with all the proper investment to be a street machine. That means upgrading to the frame, suspension, interior, and of course, V8 power. So dig into the details of a true classic hot rod.

A custom like this deserves to be in black. After all, the hot rods had their infancy being made in high school shop classes and home garages. So they usually started out life with a basic and simple style. But today, we really see a true Model A street machine, and so it earns the extra flair of the glossy finish. When you have a real-deal Model A roadster as a base, you also get some cool details missing from others, like the lights on the cowl and a new folding roof with a classic wood frame. Of course, not all of Ford's lines are in place, because this hot rod saves weight and adds boldness with the deleted fenders and an open engine bay. All the brightwork is quite good with newer investments in places like headlights, mirrors, and hallmark waterfall grille. And the 15-inch Billet Specialties wheels are a more modern piece, but they look timeless thanks to the terrific wide rear tire stance.

Just like the exterior, the interior is a nice mix of vintage and new. A great place to understand this is the dash. It still has the classic Model A bright gauges housing, but now it's flanked by newer crisp readouts. The door panels, windshield, and tall shifter all have a classic look, but they have all been updated for better use. And features like the Grants sports steering wheel and bucket seats are obvious about making this a better driver.

Of course, part of the hot rod culture is about upgrading the motor. So this has a properly-built 350 cubic-inch V8. This is upgraded with performance pieces like aluminum heads, an Edelbrock intake, and topped with a four-barrel carburetor. There are also the right supporting components, like smooth fabricated valve covers, steel braided lines, an electric fan, and an Optima marine battery. But all these more modern upgrades are nicely disguised by a tidy style and classic pieces like the Caddy air grabber and headers feeding into those big side pipes. As you look at the undercarriage photos, you also know this was made to be driven. The classic Model A frame has been reinforced to handle the extra power. There's also a split wishbone front suspension, four-link rear with adjustable airbags, a three-speed automatic transmission, power brakes, and front discs.

Rarely do you get a chance at a steel roadster made into a true highboy hot rod. So when you love history and distinction, you know this well-done Ford deserves a spot in your garage. Call today!!!