Who designed the 1932 Ford?
The 1932 Ford, often referred to as the "Deuce," is one of the most iconic cars in automotive history. Known for its revolutionary V8 engine and timeless design, it has become a favorite among car enthusiasts and hot rodders alike. But who was behind the design of this legendary vehicle? Let’s dive into the history and uncover the story of its creation.
The Vision Behind the 1932 Ford
The 1932 Ford was a product of the Ford Motor Company, spearheaded by Edsel Ford, the son of Henry Ford. While Henry Ford was focused on engineering and production efficiency, Edsel had a keen eye for design and aesthetics. He played a pivotal role in shaping the look and feel of Ford vehicles during this era.
Edsel Ford worked closely with Ford's in-house design team and engineers to create a car that was not only affordable but also stylish and innovative. The 1932 Ford was the first mass-produced car to feature a V8 engine, making it a game-changer in the automotive industry.
The Role of Eugene T. "Bob" Gregorie
While Edsel Ford provided the vision, much of the actual design work was carried out by Eugene T. "Bob" Gregorie, Ford's chief designer. Gregorie was instrumental in crafting the sleek and elegant lines of the 1932 Ford. His work set the stage for Ford's future designs and established a new standard for automotive styling.
Why the 1932 Ford Stands Out
The 1932 Ford is celebrated for several reasons:
- Innovative Engineering: It was the first affordable car to feature a V8 engine, offering power and performance to the average consumer.
- Timeless Design: The clean lines and balanced proportions of the car made it a design classic.
- Hot Rod Culture: The 1932 Ford became a favorite among hot rodders, who customized and modified it to create unique, high-performance vehicles.
The Legacy of the 1932 Ford
Today, the 1932 Ford remains a symbol of innovation and style. Its influence can still be seen in modern car design, and it continues to be a sought-after classic for collectors and enthusiasts. The collaboration between Edsel Ford and Bob Gregorie not only produced a groundbreaking vehicle but also set a benchmark for the automotive industry.
At Kevin's Autos, we celebrate the rich history of cars like the 1932 Ford. Whether you're a classic car enthusiast or just someone who appreciates great design, the story of the "Deuce" is a reminder of how vision and innovation can create something truly timeless.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much horsepower did the 1932 Ford have?
65 horsepower
Ford's original 1932 flathead 221 CID (cubic inches displacement) produced 65 horsepower and, with tweaking, remained in production until it was replaced in 1939 by a more powerful 239 designed for the new Ford Mercury. The final flathead models, the 239/255 and 337, appeared in 1948 and 1949, respectively.
Why do they call it a little Deuce Coupe?
A Deuce Coupe is a 1932 Ford Coupe (deuce being for the year). This was considered by many to be the definitive "hot rod". The Model B had four cylinders and the Model 18 featured the Ford flathead V8 engine when the car was introduced.
How much is a 1932 Ford worth today?
The value of a 1932 Ford Model 18 can vary greatly depending on its condition, mileage, options, and history. Typically, you can expect to pay around $36,156 for a 1932 Ford Model 18 in good condition with average spec.
How much horsepower did the 1932 Ford Model A have?
| Ford Model A engine | |
|---|---|
| Oil system | gravity feed; dip-and-splash |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled, circulating pump and radiator |
| Output | |
| Power output | 40 hp (29.8 kW) brake |
How much did a 1932 Ford V8 cost?
between $460 and $600
It was light enough and cheap enough to put into his inexpensive automobiles. The 1932 Ford with a V-8 engine cost between $460 and $600, depending on options. Its closest price competitor with a V-8 engine was the 1932 LaSalle, which cost about four times as much at $2395.
How fast was a 1932 Ford V-8?
76 mph
Why is a 1932 Ford called a deuce?
Among them were two coupe bodies that quickly came to be known as the 3-Window and the 5-Window. The 3-Window has just a single side window on each flank, while the 5-Window has a large door window and a second smaller window behind it. Both are "Deuce Coupes," with "deuce" referring to the fact they are 1932 models.
What was the top speed of the Deuce Coupe?
It was light, sturdy and fast—top speed 85 mph—and it had great pickup. “Getaway,” they called it during the Great Depression. Perfect for a police car. Now, those attributes that made the 1932 Ford V8 a solid tool of the law also were appreciated in the underworld.
How wealthy was Henry Ford in today's dollars?
around $200 billion
It should come as no surprise then that Ford was estimated to have a peak net worth that's the equivalent of around $200 billion (£150bn) in today's money.
What is the rarest 1932 Ford?
The rarest of the 1932 Ford Models with this 1932 B400 2dr Convertible with only 842 made. Many of this model were exported for ambassadors and Overseas use. This model didn't catch on with the public and was discontinued.
