There are currently more 1932 Fords on the road than there were when the car was new. In fact, as of several years ago, there were currently more 1932 Fords registered just in the state of California than Ford ever built. - http://www.roadsters.com/deuce/

Remember the days, not so long ago, when $90 got you a brand spankin’ new 1/18 GMP model of a classic car? You could boast to your 1/24 “friends” that your masterpiece had superior engineering at $30 or so less than the so called “mint” models cost – didn’t that feel good? Well, the good ol’ days are back in GMP’s freshest model since the GTX.

The 1932 Ford – better known as “The Deuce” - was the result of some quick thinking on the part of Ford management when sales of their stalwart Model A plummeted as the depression in America deepened. The vehicle was designed and put into production rapidly and notably contained the first production V-8 power plant in Ford’s history. The chassis with its improved rigidity was easily modified. From the time these relatively high powered cars left the assembly line, they were in demand as fledgling racers and hot rod lifestyles gained popularity. That popularity continues today, and GMP has allied itself with famous customizer Roy Brizio – he and his father Andy noted for their dazzling hot rod designs –to make what is the first in a series of hot rod Deuces.

The initial result is a tasty metallic black Deuce street rod coupe model that is elegant in every respect. Usually this is the part of the review where I’ll tell you about the “lustrous chrome” (which it has) or the “spot on stance” (which it displays) but I’m going to skip the superlatives because to over-dramatize this model is somehow vulgar. It has undeniable authenticity and it’s obvious as you review these photos, look at it on your shelf or feel it’s heft in your hand. Trying to explain it’s quality to you is like convincing you that Babe Ruth was a great baseball player – it is something you recognize intuitively. The model is fundamentally sound on just about every level from the flawless trademark grille to the quick change rear end.

There are winning touches worth noting like the machined metal instrument panel, long throw shifter, color keyed dog dish wheels, silky smooth external door hinges or, my favorite detail, the banjo steering wheel. The side engine panels are actually removable high impact plastic so you can display the car emulating the “clear hood” to feature the V-8 engine (just as many Ford dealers did when the model first came out in order to show off the engine to curiosity seekers). And with GMP, you can be sure the flat head engine is impeccably executed right down to the dual Stromberg carburetors and upgraded chrome Edelbrock valve covers.

Now you might be saying to yourself – isn’t it a bit plain? No Banana Yellow Pearlescent paint, wildly flared fenders or two-tone leather interior? If you look at this model for what it isn’t, you’re making a serious miscalculation. It is the straightforward simplicity of its fenderless shape and classic interior styling make it absolute sweetness on wheels. It’s sort of like comparing the girl next door to Pam Anderson. I’m sure Brizio and GMP will come up with several wild and wicked variations and if the price can stay reasonable, many of us will have quite the Deuce hot rod collection in a couple years. Until Pam calls, the girl next door and I are getting along fine.

Note: Figures pictured with the model are GMP Greasers figure pack, and are sold separately.

-Rusty Hurley