The original Hot Rods were born out of a need to utilize bodies and mechanical components that were readily available and either cheap or free. People typically built them without much cash, and innovative thinking was common. They are less common today, but classics like this 1930 Ford Model A Coupe prove that they are available for those wishing to recapture the glory days. It is a purposeful classic that the seller has built using a commonsense approach that should allow it to ply our roads for decades while remaining easily maintained. They have listed the Model A here on eBay in College Station, Texas. Spirited bidding has pushed the price to $13,001, which is below the reserve. They also provide a BIN option of $25,000 for those wishing to bypass the auction process.

The Hot Rod scene isn’t as vibrant as it once was and was at the height of its power from the 1950s until the 1970s. However, building one is probably easier today than at any time, because many companies produce frames and bodies that an owner can adapt easily to their needs. This Ford is an old-school version, utilizing original steel from various sources, rather than vast expanses of reproduction fiberglass. The body is a 1930 Model A unit featuring an extended cowl to accommodate taller people, and to compensate for the 4″ top chop. The fenders from a Chrysler were blended seamlessly into the body, which rests atop a 1930 Chrysler frame. The seller massaged the steel before applying Satin Black paint to give the car a purposeful appearance. It exhibits some deterioration on the hood, cowl, and other horizontal surfaces, but addressing that would be straightforward if the winning bidder doesn’t wish to retain the “patina” look. The wider steel wheels, finished in Red, provide a striking contrast and are perfectly finished with sparkling hubcaps and trim rings. The bright trim shows its age in places that match the paint deterioration, and the glass is clear.

Powering this Ford is a 350ci Chevrolet small-block that has clocked less than 100 miles since receiving a rebuild that included installing an Edelbrock intake and carburetor. It sends its power to the road via a three-speed Turbo 350 transmission. The rest of the mechanical components comprise a drop spindle front end with disc brakes, a coil-over rear end, an aluminum radiator and shroud, a Kwik Wire harness with a hidden kill switch, and a stainless steel fuel tank concealed in the trunk. The seller recently rebuilt the brakes with many new components and fitted Coker tires that have under 500 miles under their belt. They describe the Ford as ready to cruise, suggesting that it is a turnkey proposition for the winning bidder.

The “Red and Black” theme set by this Ford’s exterior is continued inside, with the steel surfaces painted to match the wheels. The seat is upholstered in a matching shade, while the Black carpet and door trims offer a striking contrast. The overall presentation is extremely tidy, with only mild stretching on the seat. The visible speakers suggest there is a stereo hidden somewhere to relieve boredom on long journeys, and I believe the sports wheel includes a tilt function.

This 1930 Ford Model A Hot Rod has attracted twenty-five bids, and it is easy to see why. The seller has put a great deal of thought into their build, producing a car with a bulletproof drivetrain that should offer years of reliable motoring pleasure. Placing a value on a classic of this type is virtually impossible because it writes its own rules. However, I feel that the BIN figure is fair, and I believe that it will find a new home. If a Hot Rod has always been your unfulfilled dream, is this Ford one you might consider?