The 1932 Ford line was something of a revelation when it was introduced to the motoring public. Not only had the Ford Motor Company made eight-cylinder power truly affordable in the form of the legendary flathead V-8, but—thanks to the vision of Edsel Ford—these cars were rather stylish as well, with beautiful proportions and subtle detailing. What made the 1932 Ford into an enduring cultural icon, however, was its wholehearted adoption by the hot rod and custom community: The Deuce Coupe at the center of the Beach Boys song of the same name was, after all, anything but stock!

With its traditional full-fender look, chopped roof, and raked stance, this 1932 Three-Window Coupe Custom recalls the clean, purposeful street rods of the 1960s. Power comes from a newer Ford small-block V-8 topped by triple two-barrel carburetors and mated to a manual transmission with floor shifter—quite an upgrade over the original flathead. An updated chassis, with coilover shock absorbers and independent suspension at each corner, helps put power to pavement in an orderly manner, Side-exit exhaust pipes, meanwhile, provide a suitable soundtrack for driver and bystanders alike.

Fit and finish of the all-steel body is excellent all around, with careful attention to detail throughout. A body-color dashboard brings the pale-yellow exterior finish into the black-trimmed cabin, with an engine-turned dash insert holding Classic Instruments gauges. An Auto Meter tachometer sits in a separate pod on the steering column, which ends in a circa 1940 Ford steering wheel. The exterior is anything but ostentatious; instead, the focus is on stance and select eye-catching elements like the gleaming gas tank at the rear and the classic, intricately louvered hood and trunk lid.

This striking 1932 Ford Three-Window Custom is offered from the estate of Frank Ricciardelli, a collector of fine taste and a longtime friend of RM Sotheby’s. The Deuce Coupe has long been a celebrated part of American car culture, and for good reason; this well-executed example offers an excellent opportunity to experience it for yourself.