The 1932 Plymouth Model PB holds a revered place in automotive history as the final four-cylinder Plymouth and the last model personally approved by Walter P. Chrysler. This specific steel-bodied convertible coupe has been reimagined as a sophisticated street rod, following a decade-long build that began in the 1990s. By boxing the factory frame and integrating a modern Mopar powertrain, the builder successfully transitioned this classic from a disassembled project into a high-performance cruiser. Retaining its full-fendered silhouette while incorporating widened steel rear fenders, the car pays homage to its 1930s roots while offering the mechanical reliability and authority of modern engineering.
Widened Steel Silhouette and Coral Accented Paint
The exterior design of this Model PB is defined by its vibrant yellow finish and coral pinstriping, a color palette that emphasizes its custom character. During the transformation, the steel rear fenders were widened by 2 inches to accommodate a staggered wheel setup, and the running boards were reshaped for a seamless transition. Significant functional tech was retained or added, including a tilt-out windshield, rear-hinged doors, and louvered hood side panels for improved engine cooling. The “Winged Lady” hood ornament stands as a dignified focal point, while a black soft top provides a sharp contrast to the bright bodywork. Staggered coral wire wheels measuring 15 and 17 inches complete the aggressive yet period-correct stance.
Glide Engineering Comfort and Vintage Air Sophistication
The cabin offers a refined environment that prioritizes modern ergonomics without sacrificing the street rod aesthetic. Reupholstered in black, the interior features a Glide Engineering bench seat and an Ididit steering column topped with a Lecarra banjo-style wheel. For cross-country drivability, the builder integrated a Vintage Air climate control system and power windows, while a Lokar shifter provides precise control over the automatic transaxle. The dashboard is centered around an engine-turned bezel housing AutoMeter gauges and a column-mounted tachometer. Safety is also addressed through three-point seatbelts, door safety latches, and a custom-integrated roll bar, making the interior as secure as it is stylish.
Modern Hemi Authority and Ford 9 Inch Durability
Mechanical performance is anchored by a 5.7-liter Hemi V8 sourced from a 2003 Dodge truck, which delivers a narrative of effortless torque and a distinct American rumble. The power delivery is handled by a four-speed automatic transmission and a legendary Ford 9-inch rear end, ensuring the drivetrain can manage the modern engine’s output with ease. While dual units for this truck-sourced engine typically reach 345 hp / 350 PS and 375 lb-ft / 508 Nm, the custom headers and dual exhaust system likely enhance the engine’s breathing and acoustic profile. Handling is modernized via a Fat Man independent front suspension and power steering, while stopping power is managed by front disc brakes and a Master Power Brakes master cylinder.
Technical Specifications
| Technical Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 5.7-Liter Hemi V8 |
| Transmission | 4-Speed Automatic |
| Front Suspension | Fat Man Independent (IFS) |
| Rear Differential | Ford 9-inch |
| Steering | Power Assisted |
| Wheels | Staggered 15-inch and 17-inch Wire Wheels |
Street Rod Value and the Plymouth Advantage
In the specialized market of early 1930s street rods, the 1932 Plymouth Model PB offers a distinctive alternative to the more common Ford Model B. Its unique selling point lies in the “Mopar on Mopar” build philosophy, which remains highly respected among enthusiasts who value brand consistency. The investment in a boxed frame and high-quality components like the Glide seat and Fat Man suspension places this car in a premium category of builds intended for actual driving rather than just static display. As a steel-bodied car with a clean California title, it avoids the common pitfalls of fiberglass reproductions, ensuring its long-term value as an authentic piece of customized automotive history.
A Decades Long Vision Brought to Life
This 1932 Plymouth Model PB is a testament to the patience and vision required to execute a high-level street rod build. By combining the unmistakable silhouette of a pre-war classic with the relentless power of a Hemi V8, the seller has created a vehicle that is equally at home at a local car show or on the open highway. Every modification, from the widened fenders to the coral wire wheels, works in harmony to celebrate the Plymouth legacy. It stands as a refined, powerful, and impeccably finished example of what can be achieved when historical steel meets modern mechanical mastery.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
