Thanks to its robust engineering and affordable horsepower, Ford’s V-8 models proved irresistible to modifiers and customizers almost from the moment they began rolling off the assembly line in 1932. Of course, America was not the only country that realized the aftermarket potential of the “Flathead”: This V-8 Speedster Special offers a fascinating, and utterly unique, South American interpretation of the modified Ford formula.

Previously believed to be a creation of the Italian coachbuilder Carrozzeria Viotti, further research reveals what is perhaps an even more surprising genesis for this machine: Built on a 1935 Ford Model 48 chassis, it artfully incorporates the bodywork from an Adler Trumpf Junior Sport! Produced by Adler from 1935–1937, the Trumpf Junior Sport was the roadster variant of the marque’s small, front-wheel-drive car, a layout pioneered by German marques prior to World War II. Despite being designed for a front-wheel drive platform, the Sport roadster’s bodywork has been cleverly modified and seamlessly mated to the rear-wheel drive Ford chassis.

The car was reportedly discovered in Argentina, where it is believed to have been created, in the 1960s and subsequently imported to the United States. Although the shapely boattail was apparently added by the builder, much of the Adler bodywork from the rear axle forward has been retained. In photos of the car taken after its importation into the United States but prior to its more recent restoration, further Trumpf Junior Sport features, including rear fenders, are evident.

Supporting its origin as a South American car, its Ford chassis is originally right-hand drive (as confirmed by the chassis numbers’ “18-F” prefix); Argentina, as well as other neighboring nations, still employed left-hand traffic patterns in the mid-1930s. Interestingly, the throttle pedal is mounted between the clutch and brake. Power comes from a standard Ford flathead V-8 breathing through a single two-barrel carburetor and mated to a three-speed manual transmission. Ancillary components are drawn from a variety of sources: Although the taillights are Ford, the headlamps come from Scintilla of Switzerland, while the horn is of Magneti Marelli manufacture.

Prior to 2015, this Ford was restored and subtly restyled to emphasize its sporting stance. Open teardrop front fenders and skirted rear cycle-type fenders, plus streamlined disc covers for the four wheels and two side-mounted spares, contribute to its road racing-inspired character. Although the car does not have provisions for a top, four stanchion receptacles behind the cockpit suggest that a luggage rack was fitted at one point. A black tonneau cover can be fitted over the cockpit for outdoor storage.

An undeniably attractive—if unexpected—creation, this 1935 Ford V-8 Speedster Special would make for a most intriguing addition to any collection, inviting double-takes and deep appreciation in equal measure.