The Budweiser Special: A 2.3L Lima Powered '32 Ford
April 7
I was wrapping up some shots at the shop when I heard something that definitely wasn’t a V8. It was a rhythmic, mechanical chug—rough, idling high, and sounding like it had a point to prove. Then this maroon 1932 Ford Model A rolled in, looking exactly how a real hot rod should: driven.
I got to talking with the owner for a while. I’m terrible with names—completely blanked on it—but he was a classic old-timer who clearly built this thing to use it. This isn't a trailer queen and it’s not a "look at me" rat rod; it’s a pure driver’s car.
The first thing you notice is the stance. It’s got suicide doors and sits low, but when you look at the front end, you realize why the ride looks so raw—there are absolutely no shocks. Just the leaf springs and the Montana pavement. It’s a bold move, but it fits the "no-nonsense" theme of the whole build.
Under where the hood should be sits a 2.3L 'Lima' OHC 4-cylinder. He pulled it out of a 1984 Mustang, and honestly, it’s a genius choice for a lightweight car like this. It’s narrow, it’s bulletproof, and it gives the car a character you just don't see at the typical car show.
My favorite "junkyard engineering" details?
The Oil Catch Can: A vintage, weathered Budweiser can tucked right into the frame. It’s simple, effective, and looks better than any $100 billet part you could buy.
The Interior: He’s running actual boat seats. They’re rugged, waterproof, and surprisingly look right at home behind that dash.
It was one of those Great Bozeman moments—just a guy, his machine, and a lot of hand-built soul. No fluff, no over-engineering, just a car meant to be on the road.
