Back to back: 1936 Ford V8 De Luxe Roadster vs 1932 Ford Hot Rod 'High-Boy' Roadster

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Two open Fords, two powerful V8 engines and two very different interpretations of America’s pre-war motoring heritage. At The Quail Auction on 13 August, these two roadsters will cross the block shortly after one another. But which would you choose?

At first glance, the 1936 Ford V8 De Luxe Roadster appears almost entirely original. Its Washington Blue paintwork, cream-coloured whitewall tyres, chrome hubcaps and characteristic rumble seat give it a thoroughly classic appearance. Beneath the surface, however, it has been comprehensively modernised. A Ford 302 V8, C4 automatic transmission, nine-inch rear axle, TCI chassis and electric power steering are intended to make it considerably more comfortable and usable than a standard example. The estimate is $80,000 to $110,000.

The 1932 Ford Hot Rod ‘High-Boy’ Roadster makes no attempt to conceal its intentions. With no wings or running boards, a black steel Brookville body, red pinstriping and Halibrand-style wheels, it follows the tradition of the Californian hot rods that once appeared on salt flats and dry lakes.

Under the bonnet is a 350-cubic-inch GM Performance ZZ4 V8 with Weber carburettors, producing 335 bhp. A four-speed automatic transmission sends the power to the rear wheels. Since its completion, the car has covered just 1,647 miles. It is expected to fetch between $70,000 and $90,000.

One combines a largely classic appearance with modern comfort; the other proudly displays its performance and hot-rod heritage. Both are carefully built, powerful and made for open-air motoring – yet they appeal to very different audiences. So, would you choose the stylish De Luxe or the unapologetic High-Boy?

Details:

• Auction: The Quail Auction 2026 by Broad Arrow Auctions
• Date: 13–14 August 2026
• Location: Carmel, California, US
• View all listings >>

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