1934 Ford Model 18 & 40 V8

1934 Ford 3-Window Coupe Gibbons Body 383ci Stroker V8 Automatic Air Suspension

This custom 1934 Ford 3-Window Coupe combines one of the most iconic body styles of the pre-war era with contemporary engineering, premium components, and meticulous craftsmanship throughout. Reportedly built by Jesse James at Austin Speed Shop, the coupe balances timeless styling with modern performance and drivability.

The sleek Gibbons fiberglass 3-window body retains the unmistakable proportions that have made the 1934 Ford coupe an enduring hot rod icon, while a matching fiberglass hood and grille shell are complemented by steel louvered side panels. The deep black finish highlights the coupe's flowing pre-war lines and aggressive stance. One-off billet aluminum wheels created by Mike Curtis of Curtis Speed Equipment, known for his work on Overhaulin', measure 18" in front and 19" in the rear and are wrapped in Excelsior tires, providing a distinctive finishing touch that complements the coupe's professional build.

Power comes from a Chevrolet 383ci stroker V8 topped by a Holley four-barrel carburetor with an induction plenum that draws air through dual filters, creating an engine compartment that is visually striking. An aluminum radiator and modern serpentine accessory drive complement the clean presentation. The engine is paired with a TH350 3-speed automatic transmission driving a Ford 9" rear axle equipped with 3.23 gearing and a limited-slip differential. Beneath the car, a boxed chassis with tubular crossmembers provides the foundation for the build, incorporating a chrome-plated dropped solid front axle with front air suspension, QA1 adjustable rear coilovers, power steering, and four-wheel Wilwood power disc brakes with drilled and slotted rotors.

Inside, the cabin was custom upholstered in black leather, creating an inviting environment that balances traditional hot rod styling with modern comfort. Suicide doors open to reveal custom upholstered door panels and a pair of sculpted bucket seats accented by contrasting stitching, while power windows add everyday convenience. A custom dashboard houses a set of red-faced Classic Instruments gauges accented by red and white pinstriping that traces the contours of the dash, adding a handcrafted touch that echoes traditional hot rod artistry. An overhead-mounted JVC AM/FM/CD receiver paired with modern speakers and a power antenna provides entertainment, while black carpeting with bound edges complements the cabin's tailored appearance. Modern air conditioning further enhances comfort.

Blending timeless 1934 Ford styling with thoughtfully integrated modern engineering, this custom 3-Window Coupe offers visual appeal and comfortable usability. From its professionally engineered chassis to its meticulously finished interior, this coupe presents an impressive interpretation of one of the most celebrated designs in American hot rodding.

Key Highlights

* Attributed to Jesse James of Austin Speed Shop
* Chevrolet 383ci stroker V8
* TH350 3-speed automatic transmission
* Ford 9" rear axle with 3.23 gearing
* Limited-slip differential
* Holley 4-barrel carburetor
* Polished sheet-metal induction plenum with dual cone air filters
* Gibbons fiberglass 3-window body
* Steel louvered side panels
* Boxed aftermarket chassis with tubular crossmembers
* Chrome-plated dropped solid front axle
* Front Air Ride suspension
* QA1 adjustable rear coilovers
* Four-wheel Wilwood power disc brakes with drilled/slotted rotors
* Power steering
* Modern air conditioning
* One-off Mike Curtis billet aluminum wheels
* Custom black leather interior
* Suicide doors
* Power windows
* Red-faced Classic Instruments gauges
* Overhead JVC AM/FM/CD receiver

Key details
Transmission: 3 Speed Automatic
VIN / chassis: 007134

Offered by RK Motors, 5523 Lakeview Road, Charlotte, NC 28269. Taxes, title and fees not included.

Photos courtesy of RK Motors.