STEEL BODY ROADSTER PICKUP, FORD POWERED 302CI, IDIDIT COLUMN, NEW INTERIOR

Remember those cool rods from the '70s, the ones that filled the pages of the programs at the AutoRama each year? This 1930 Ford Model A roadster pickup is the modern interpretation of one of those cars, a neat little truck with 302 V8 power and lots of style.The roadster pickup is one of the most appealing body styles of the dozens that were offered on the Model A chassis. It's sporty but functional, a combination that works incredibly well either as a restored car or a hot rod like this. It keeps all the familiar Model A styling cues, so there's no question what it is, but thanks to some subtle tweaks here and there, it has a definite custom look. The burgundy paint certainly helps, offering a street rod look without being too flashy, which lets the bodywork simply speak for itself. The body is 100% steel, so it has that authentic look and feel that you can't replicate in fiberglass. Fit and finish are quite good, and it uses traditional tricks like the pinstripes on the belt moldings, a custom rear roll pan with built-in taillights, and a cool vintage trunk in the bed for a bit of enclosed storage. You'll also note that the bed floor is beautifully finished oak, adding to the rich, upscale look.The roadster pickup was never known for its larger cab, but this one has been skillfully "re-engineered" to allow taller drivers to get comfortable behind the wheel. Most of that is due to a custom bench seat that's been expertly upholstered in burgundy and gray vinyl with matching door panels. A custom dashboard replaces the simple Model A unit (that was actually the gas tank) and includes a billet instrument panel full of clean Faria gauges. There's also a tilt steering column with a billet wheel, traditional "spoon" accelerator pedal, and plush carpets that make the humble Model A feel a bit more upscale. The top is a lift-off piece wrapped in burgundy canvas, so it looks great and doesn't flap around, and it's worth noting that the original roadster pickups also had lift-off tops; they merely looked like they could fold. In truth, the folding roadster pickup top is a modern invention, so this rod gets it right.A 302 cubic inch Ford V8 lives under the rounded hood and it's a neat fit behind the familiar Model A radiator shell. A big Holley carburetor is fed by new braided stainless fuel lines and a fresh fuel pump and there's an HEI-style ignition system lighting the fires. Finned valve covers have been painted satin black to match the block, and we dig the industrial-strength look under the hood. There's a big radiator up front with an electric fan and long-tube headers feed a custom exhaust system that tucks up into the frame for excellent ground clearance. The transmission is an FMX 3-speed automatic feeding what appears to be a GM 10-bolt rear end, which hangs on a 4-link setup and coil-over shocks. Up front there's a traditional I-beam axle with hairpins and a leaf spring, and front disc brakes provide plenty of stopping power. The stance is exactly right, too, thanks to a big-n-little combination of aluminum wheels and 205/65/15 front and 255/70/15 rear BFGoodrich T/A radials.A cool little truck with plenty of power and upgrades that make it comfortable for anyone to drive. For those who like to be a little different, this is a great alternative. Call today!