When it comes to hot rods based on cars from the late 1930s and early 1940s, almost everyone seems to go with Fords and Chevrolets. I'm not here to argue, both companies offer great candidates for restomods with modern underpinnings, but I think hot rodders should start looking more into the Mopars of the era. Yes, I know, habits and trends are difficult to break, but this fully customized 1941 Plymouth Coupe might make you forget about the more established brands.
The flashy, Inca Gold hot rod you're looking at started life as a first-generation Plymouth De Luxe. And I say "started" because it no longer looks like one now. Designed by noted builder John Gimelli, it boasts an extensive list of modifications, starting with a completely reworked front fascia.
Like most cars from the era, the 1941 De Luxe features a big grille between the headlamps. The element has been deleted almost entirely, with the vent reduced to a horizontal opening just beneath the V-shaped nose. The headlamps are still in their original position, but they've been recessed into the fenders and lost their chrome rings.
The stock bumper was replaced by a two-piece unit with bullet-like inserts, while the upper fenders now sport small fins. The latter is a rare feature on hot rods, making this Plymouth stand out among other creations.
Move onto the sides and you'll notice a sleeker stance, which is the result of a chopped roof and a lowered suspension. The prominent side sills specific to this model have been removed, while the rear wheels are now fully covered, to the point where you can barely see the whitewall tires.
The rear section is just as exotic thanks to a remodeled bumper, a split window, and, more importantly, a pair of large fins extending upward and sideways. Someone must really love the big fin designs of the 1950s.
The gold theme continues inside the cabin, where almost everything was finished in the flashy hue. Sure, the upholstery sports a rather mustardy tint compared to the metallic gold panels and dashboard, but it's a nice combo, especially if you're into this kind of stuff.
The Plymouth is fitted with four bucket-like seats and there's also a custom console running through the center. You'll also find a bullet horn button on the steering wheel and a rocket top on the transmission shifter. A flamboyant yet nice place to spend time in.
As far as the oily bits go, this Plymouth is no longer a true-blue Mopar under the hood. Power comes from a 350-cubic-inch (5.7-liter) small-block V8 engine sourced from a 1968 Chevrolet Camaro. I'm sure hardcore Mopar fans won't be too happy about this transplant, but hey, it's somewhat of a classic recipe. The engine reportedly has only 47,000 miles (75,640 km) on it and mates to a three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic gearbox.
No word on power and torque, but it's safe to say it cranks out more than the stock 1968 Camaro thanks to a bunch of aftermarket upgrades. The photos confirm that the V8 is no longer completely stock, but there are no radical modifications to talk about either.
The hot rod rides on a new rear end fitted with an air suspension system and features disc brakes at all four corners. It also comes with power steering. Overall, it should be a nice ride, comfortable enough for daily driving duty.
Purchased some years ago from a previous owner in Oakland, California, the Plymouth was customized between 2017 and 2019. And it has won a few awards since then, including Half Moon Bay's "Dream Machines Car of the Year." She's definitely a beauty!
If you're looking for a change of pace in the hot rod department, the Plymouth is currently being auctioned off on Hemmings. The bidding is at $30,000 with six days to go, but the reserve hasn't been met.
Given that the owner says that a build "of this magnitude would cost over $400,000 with 4,000 hours invested," it's safe to say that he isn't willing to let it go for less than $100,000. Not exactly a bargain, but not all that expensive either. Especially if you'd take a Plymouth hot rod over a Ford or a Chevy. I know I would, so how about you?
Ask Ciprian about cars and he'll reveal an obsession with classics and an annoyance with modern design cues. Read his articles and you'll understand why his ideal SUV is the 1969 Chevrolet K5 Blazer. Full profile
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