How many Fords were produced in 1932?
About 500,000 Fords were produced in 1932.
In that year, Ford faced the early years of the Great Depression, and production figures depend on counting scope (cars vs trucks, worldwide vs domestic). This article explains sources, definitions, and the context around Ford’s output in 1932, including the introduction of the new V8 engine and Model 18.
Context and sources
Several factors influence how the number is reported; here are the main considerations:
- Scope of production: Some histories count only passenger cars, others include light trucks and commercial vehicles.
- Geography: Domestic U.S. production vs worldwide totals.
- Model year vs calendar year: Some figures are reported for model years (e.g., 1932 models) rather than calendar year 1932.
- Product mix: The introduction of the 1932 Ford V8 (Model 18) changed production patterns.
- Documentation: Ford's own annual report, trade press, and historians provide different tallies.
Because of these variations, the exact tally is rarely cited as a single, definitive figure. Most historical summaries place Ford's total production for 1932 around the half‑million mark, with the precise number depending on what is included and how it is counted.
Model 18 and the 1932 V-8
The year 1932 is notable in Ford's history for the introduction of the affordable flathead V8, marketed as the Model 18. The V8 helped broaden Ford's appeal during a tough economic period and influenced production mix as factories shifted toward the higher‑margin V8 line alongside the continued Model B and existing six‑cylinder models.
Why the figure matters for history
Production totals illuminate how automakers adapted to the Great Depression, the impact of new powertrains like the V8, and Ford's market strategy as it navigated declining demand. The distribution between passenger cars and trucks also hints at consumer and commercial demand during 1932.
Summary
In short, production of Ford vehicles in 1932 is commonly cited around 500,000 units (subject to counting method). The Depression era, the Model 18 introduction, and differing reporting standards all influence the exact figure. Historically, researchers present a range rather than a single precise number, reflecting the complexities of counting production across models, regions, and calendar conventions.
Why is a 1932 Ford called a deuce?
The name 'Deuce' means 2 in American slang and is the nickname for the 1932 Ford Coupe. A similar car was the subject of the Beach Boys' 1963 hit 'Little Deuce Coupe'.
How much is a 1932 Ford worth today?
Typically, you can expect to pay around $35,444 for a 1932 Ford Model 18 in good condition with average spec. What is the highest selling price of a 1932 Ford Model 18? The highest selling price of a 1932 Ford Model 18 at auction over the last three years was $225,500.
How many cars did Ford build in 1932?
This engine proved so successful that of approximately 275,000 Ford passenger cars built in the 1932 model year, about 185,000 were equipped with the V8.
What was the most popular car in 1932?
1932: Ford Roadster
The “Deuce” had an immeasurable impact on car culture. What made it so popular?
