You probably have seen a ton of Model As and Ts over the years. But did you forget about Ford’s Model B? The Model B often gets overlooked because it was only produced from 1932 to 1934.
Fortunately, builders are still turning the Model B into street rods. The longer body of the Model B provides new custom options. The 1933 Ford Model Tudor custom restomod sedan for sale now on eBay is a great example.
Tribal flames are a popular look on Ford hotrods.
Three 1930s Fords Replaced the Model A
Ford offered three new models after the Model A was discontinued in 1931. There was the Model 18, the Model 46, and the Model B.
The Model 18 introduced Ford’s venerable flathead V-8 engine. It became the first low-priced, mass-marketed car to have a V-8 engine. The 221 cubic-inch engine made 65 horsepower, which was impressive for the day. The V-8 was so popular that the Model 46 also switched to the bigger engine for the 1933/34 version.
The Model B used the meeker 4-cylinder mill. That explains why the Model B was less popular, even though it was supposed to be the higher-volume, low-cost entry option. Maybe the price difference wasn’t enough to lure buyers. Back in the day, the more powerful Model 18 cost just $10 more than the Model B, which started at $485.
Nonetheless, compared to Model As, the Bs have larger main bearings and have pressurized cam bearings. The four-cylinder powerplant is considered more reliable as well.
The Model B restomod available on eBay uses a Windsor Ford engine. <<<New? What year? How much horsepower?>>>>
To keep production costs low, Ford made the Model B nearly identical to the Model 18, while providing a different engine compartment, badging, and hubcaps. Regardless, most of the pieces are interchangeable with similar Ford models of that era, which makes it easier for today’s builders to locate parts.
A Hotrod Variant
Tribal flames are a popular look on Ford hotrods.
The Model A and Model B have similar looks. But the B has a longer wheelbase and a pronounced curve. The lines of the Model B flow smoother and were a nice upgrade to the stodgy model A. The fuel tank was moved to the rear of the car, thus requiring a mechanical fuel pump. The car’s chassis was curved rather than a straight frame rail.
The longer body allows modern builders to add new features. That includes suicide doors, which is a common custom touch.
Model Bs came in two trim levels—standard and deluxe. The biggest distinction is between the three-window and the five-window models. The five-window versions offered two extra rear quarter windows for a more open look. Along with the updated Model B cars, Ford also offered Model BB trucks, which came with the same four- or eight-cylinder engines.
This Model B now has a roll pan, replacing the rear bumper with a slanted part to continues the car’s smooth lines.
Restomod Adds New Engine and iPod Cradle
The iconic Ford deuce coupe, a 1932 Ford Model 18, is a mainstay in the hotrodding. Meanwhile, the 1933 Ford Model Tudor Custom Sedan for sale on eBay takes liberty with the classic form.
The available Model B hotrod features suicide doors and a brilliant flame paint job, with the flame theme continuing into the leather interior. The all-steel car was chopped and added electric windows. The ’33 restomod now packs a Windsor 351 engine, with power delivered via a three-speed automatic. There are updated VDO gauges and an Alpine iDA-X100 radio tucked above the rear view mirror. An iPod cradle and twin 12-inch speakers provides modern song selection. Maybe “Little Deuce Coupe” by the Beach Boys?
The seller has owned the car since 2008. Less than 10,000 miles were added to the Model B since its restoration in 2006.
