Ford Model A - Concept Quantum Chimera Tres - Budget Build

For the third installation of our "dream build" series, we sent Josh a series of swap meet photos in the hopes of conceptually building one of the most popular styles as of late: a highboy A-V8 coupe. We started with a decent body found at the Los Angeles Roadster Show swap meet and proceeded to whack the top a few inches before mating it to a chassis built off a pair of Deuce 'rails. A complete front suspension setup from a '35-40 Ford was found, split 'bones and all to support the front of the chassis, while out back a banjo rearend and radius rods were hung off a Model A spring to make adding that quick-change later that much easier. Of course, it wouldn't technically be an A-V8 without the obligatory Flathead motor, which we "scored" for $325. Ford steelies from a '40 were shod in bias-ply rubber and sit all around, big 'n' littles of course. A Deuce grille was added to drive home that V-8 vibe, as was a hood top to finish off the front end.

To illustrate the different styles possible, Josh also envisioned the same car built in a '60s vibe with slicks mounted on five-spoke Americans and skinny 12 spokes up front. A full hood and Model A grille shell change up the theme as does the full fender treatment. Two-tone gold and brown almost lends itself to a Resto-rod theme.

However you slice it, both cars are pure hot rod, whether built in a highboy fashion or closer to stock guise as a full-fendered version. With big 'n' littles and a wicked stance, a healthy Flathead mill, and a generous chop, there's no mistaking the pair as anything other than pure old-school hot rod.