1932 Ford Roadster VIN Verification

INTRODUCTION

The 1934 Ford Roadster stands as one of the most iconic hot rods in American automotive history. With its sleek lines, open-top styling, and distinctive V8 power, the ’34 Roadster became a symbol of freedom and rebellion—especially embraced by car enthusiasts and custom builders for decades. Today, it holds legendary status among collectors and rodders alike.

HISTORY & ORIGINS

Introduced as part of Ford’s Model 40 lineup, the 1934 Roadster was one of the last true open-top cars produced without roll-up windows. It followed the successful 1932 and 1933 models but came with a more refined design, enhanced V8 powertrain, and a sleeker overall profile. The car was designed during the Great Depression, and despite economic hardship, it sold well—thanks to its affordability and groundbreaking performance.

ENGINE & PERFORMANCE OPTIONS

Under the hood, the 1934 Roadster came equipped with the famous Flathead V8 engine, a 3.6-liter (221 cubic inches) powerplant that delivered 85 horsepower—a big deal at the time. It was a game-changer, offering V8 performance at a price the average consumer could afford. The engine was mated to a 3-speed manual transmission, and while performance by today’s standards was modest, it was quick and lively for the era.

DESIGN & FEATURES

The 1934 Ford Roadster is instantly recognizable by its elongated front grille, curved fenders, and low-slung profile. Unlike coupes or sedans, the roadster had no side windows and a folding soft top. The dash was clean and simple, with art-deco inspired gauges. The car’s steel body and distinctive body lines made it a favorite canvas for custom builds, especially during the hot rod boom of the 1950s and beyond.

TRIM LEVELS & VARIANTS

Ford offered the 1934 Roadster in a limited number of configurations:

• Standard Roadster

• Deluxe Roadster – Added chrome accents, upgraded interior trim, and dual horns/lights.

While production numbers were relatively low compared to coupes and sedans, both versions remain highly desirable among collectors. Today, many reproductions and fiberglass kits exist due to the original’s popularity.

SAFETY & TECHNOLOGY

Safety features on the 1934 Roadster were minimal by modern standards:

• Mechanical drum brakes (on all four wheels)

• No seat belts or airbags

• Basic lighting and instrumentation

However, the engineering was considered reliable at the time, and the lightweight body allowed for relatively agile handling.

FUEL ECONOMY & EFFICIENCY

The Flathead V8 was relatively efficient for its time, offering around 15–18 miles per gallon under normal driving conditions. Fuel efficiency wasn’t a major selling point in the 1930s, but Ford’s V8 was praised for delivering solid mileage compared to larger, more expensive engines from luxury brands.

MARKET COMPARISON

In 1934, Ford competed directly with:

• Chevrolet Master Roadster

• Plymouth PE Roadster

• Dodge DR Series

The Ford Roadster was often chosen for its V8 power, affordability, and availability. Chevy and Dodge offered inline-six engines, but Ford’s lightweight V8 package gave it the performance edge.

PRICING

The 1934 Ford Roadster originally sold for around $500 to $600, depending on trim. Today, prices vary dramatically based on originality, condition, and customization:

• Restored originals: $40,000 – $100,000+

• Custom hot rods: $30,000 – $200,000+

• Reproduction kits: $15,000 – $50,000 (depending on build)

NOTABLE AWARDS & ACCOLADES

• Icon of hot rod culture, frequently featured in shows like Hot Rod Magazine and SEMA events

• Regular winner at custom car competitions like Goodguys Rod & Custom Shows

• Inducted into pop culture through countless films, including American Graffiti and Grease