Like Frankenstein’s monster, this 1934 Plymouth PE Deluxe Coupe could best be described as a “bitsa” car. It’s bits of one car, bits of another, and so on. Due to this, it probably isn’t a candidate for a restoration, but more likely it will become the basis for a custom or rat rod project. The owner has set a BIN price of $8,000, but the option is available to make an offer. Located in Mobridge, South Dakota, it is listed for sale here on eBay.
This Plymouth really does have a bit of everything. The frame is a short wheelbase PG item, while the majority of the body is from a long wheelbase PE Coupe. Well, that is, except for the front fenders, which are from a Dodge. Oh, and the grille, which is from a Buick. There are some rust issues in the body, but none of them are horrendous, and all should be able to be addressed without the need to undertake wholesale panel replacement. The running boards are sporting a bit of damage, but careful application of heat and a hammer should be able to bring them back.
There is no interior trim of any real description apart from a dash panel and what the owner describes as some pretty rough gauges, so this will be a clean slate for the next owner. What this photo does show is that the floors look to be quite solid. There is rust in the bottoms of the door skins, but the doors themselves are said to be solid. There is also rust in the rear fenders and apron which appears to be repairable, while there are also a few small spots in the top.
As you can see from this photo, the frame itself looks like it is really solid. It looks like a quick visit to the nearest media blaster will bring it up a treat, and would provide a good starting point for a project. Interestingly, while there is no engine or transmission, there is a front and rear end for the car, and it does roll. The front end is only wired into place, but that just means that it will be easier to remove to restore the frame. The rear end is an S10 item and is fitted with disc brakes.
I would be quite surprised if anyone looking at this particular Plymouth sees it as a restoration project, but stranger things have happened. The reality is that this would make a great basis for a custom or a rat rod project, and the fact that it is being sold with a clear title won’t hurt it at all. I am well aware that there will be readers out there that look at this and think that it’s all too much, too hard, or too far gone. That’s fair enough because one of the great attractions of the classic car scene is the fact that we can all have a diverse range of opinions. However, for those of you who would be willing to take it on if it was in your workshop, what would you do with it?
Mix-mash or not, the overall style is very appealing.
As Adam, I see this as the basis for a cool rod project of some sort. I personally am not into the rat-rod look. Much rather see something finished up with a great paint job, looking as a killer cohesive unit.
As far as the drivetrain goes, whatever fits would work. Just make sure it puts out a strong number for horsepower, and sounds good to boot.
Not a blank canvas, but one with a great background, ready to finish up.
Too much money but what a great core to build a street rod out of.
It might be a mishmash of parts, but it does have a cool look to it. I do agree with bobhess though, might be starting a bit high on price.
That’s a 1933 Buick grille and radiator shell on that Plymouth.
plymouth grille curled towards the front fenders into a panel that is missing.
Like the styling and would make a great rod unique from the more popular Ford and Chevys of those years. Though more pricey an early hemi would be a good choice. Agree the price seems a little high but I would start there and see what the buying people think.
For an engine I could see going old school with maybe a 354 Hemi or upgrade to a modern 5.7 L Hemi. In either case that S10 rear would have to go. I would just go with an Explorer rear with disc brakes. Try to find someone to do a nice tuck and roll interior and then a nice paint job.
Here is what it could look like with some $ and hard work
Mine has 34 Dodge fenders
I’d rather have this than a deuce.
I had a 1934 Pe 2-door sedan that I bought in 1975 for 600bucks I worked on the car for 5 years to try and keep it original went to Hersey Pennsylvania in the mud and cold and rain for years to build that car. I’m from Toledo Oh. well I made it a hot rod because it was to hard to find parts at the time. here are some picks.
that was my kids they like this car they were 5 years older when I got done with it.
It needs to have a large flathead six like a 308 Hudson in it.
six?
A nice modern fuel injected 8 is the way to go.
If i had the cash great street rod starting complete chassis/frame/brake upgrade to handle late model supercharger LS engine and tranny then have body work professionally and painted like Billy Gibbons -ZZ Top 34 ford
An ls !!!!!!!! its a Mopar how about a hemi they have been making the new generation Hemi for many years now and lots of them are available. Other than my Hudson idea I would not even consider a boring ls.